‘No disputing’ the economic benefits of Open’s return to Fife

Fife Council has welcomed the return of the Open to St Andrews for the 150th staging of the championship.

Authority chiefs said the region’s economy could look forward to a major boost when the prestigious tournament is held in 2021.

The event was last hosted at the home of golf in 2015, when 93,000 spectators generated a calculated £52 million for the local economy.

Given the standing of the Old Course in the game of golf, it is thought around a quarter of the people who attended three years ago came from overseas.

Experts say Scotland enjoyed a wider economic benefit of £140m as a result.

Altany Craik, Fife Council’s tourism convener, said: “St Andrews is the undisputed home of golf so it seems only right that such a historic event as the 150th anniversary should be held here.

“The Open is a huge international event which attracts visitors from all over the world and is televised in scores of countries, bringing images of our beautiful coast and countryside to homes worldwide.

“There is no disputing the economic benefits which such a high-profile event brings to Fife.”

Stephen Owen, chairman of Fife Golf, said: “Fife is delighted and honoured to be hosting the Open Championship in its 150th year.

“Competitors who have played in the Championship over the world famous Old Course state that it is an extra special experience when staged at the home of golf.

“As is the case with every Open Championship, the businesses and people of Fife will be very much looking forward to welcoming competitors, fans and media from around the world to the kingdom, for what will be a wonderful celebration of the world’s greatest major championship.”

Prior to 2021, St Andrews will be hosting the Senior Open Championship in July for the first time this year, with 144 of the world’s finest over-50s golfers due to compete over the famous Old Course links.