World welcomes Troon’s big vote
First Minister congratulates club decision
The world’s top golfers start arriving at Royal Troon this weekend – knowing its future is now secure as an Open venue.
Members voted in favour of admitting women thus ending Troon’s claim as the only remaining host club on the Open rota to maintain a male- only membership policy.
The move was overwhelmingly passed at a special general meeting which was attended by 360 of the club’s 861 members.
And it was immediately hailed all round the world.
The New York Times reported: “There are no longer any golf clubs on the Open rotation that do not allow female clubs.”
Town MP Philippa Whitford tweeted: “Delighted that Royal Troon has voted to allow women members.
“Now we can look forward to the Open Championship.”
Ayr MP Corri Wilson added: “Pleased to hear Royal Troon has voted to let women join.”
And First Minister Nicola Sturgeon hailed it a victory for equality and common sense .
She added: “Well done, Royal Troon – hopefully Muirfield will follow suit.”
Friday night’s vote followed a decision by golf’s governing body The R& A to remove Muirfield when its members voted against accepting female members.
A spokesman for The R& A said: “We welcome this decision by the membership at Royal Troon and recognise its significance for the club.
“Our focus today is very much on The 145th Open in just under two weeks’ time but we can now look forward to many more great Championships at Royal Troon in years to come.”
The club had announced it was staging a “review of membership policy” last year, but initially the process was not due to be resolved until later this year.
However, the vote was brought forward to the eve of this year’s 145th Open.
Club captain Martin Cheyne said: “We have said a number of times recently that it is important for golf clubs to reflect the society in which we exist and the modern world that looks to us.
“Therefore, I am delighted with the decision taken by Members of Royal Troon and look forward to welcoming women to our great club.
“It is the right decision for the club today, and for the generations of golfers that will follow.”
Meanwhile, anticipation is building ahead of the The Open which tees off on Thursday, July 14.
Tickets for the opening practice day on Sunday are £ 15, rising to £ 25 on Monday, £ 30 on Tuesday and £ 40 on Wednesday.
It’s £ 80 admission for each of the four days from Thursday to Sunday.
There are reduced prices for 16 to 21- year- olds while under 16s are free.
A weekly ticket for the reserved stand at the 18th will set you back a cool £ 250 while it’s £ 100 for the closing Sunday only.
Twilight tickets for admission after 4pm on Thursday and Friday are £ 25.
Three times winner Tiger Woods has withdrawn and been replaced by Marcus Fraser of Australia.