ST ANDREWS has welcomed the 144th Scottish Open gold tournament today.
And the world’s oldest major golf championship will also welcome the 300,000th young person under its kids go free policy.
Jamie Hepburn, Minister for Sport, Health Improvement and Mental Health, visited St Andrews today and welcomed the success of The R&A’s scheme, which has given young people accompanied by an adult free entry since 1997.
Mr Hepburn also highlighted the economic and sporting benefits of the championship, which is held in Scotland an average of three years in every five.
The Open at St Andrews is expected to generate more than £100m of economic benefits to Scotland, with more than 200,000 people attending the famous course over the seven days.
Mr Hepburn said: “The Kids Go Free scheme is a tremendous policy that gives children the opportunity to see one of the world’s greatest sporting events for free.
“This is the fifth time in ten years that Scotland has hosted The Open, which is a tribute to our tremendous golf courses, and the warm welcome which people can expect when they visit Scotland.
“There is no finer place to come to watch and play golf.”
