Partnership aims to drive golf forward

Aglobal golf census has teed off as part of a new partnership between Carnoustie Golf Links and Abertay University aimed at bringing more people into the game.

The world-famous Open Championship venue has already forged strong links with Abertay.

And the census is the first project for a new research hub which aims to deliver a data-driven impact on the sport.

The latest development was launched as Carnoustie plays host to the R&A Boys’ and Girls’ Amateur Championships.

A key focus will be on bringing underrepresented groups into the game.

Pandemic research by the R&A revealed a lockdown leap in playing numbers. But the governing body warned the huge influx of returning or new golfers should not be taken for granted.

The health and wellbeing benefits of being on the fairways will be another main area of research.

“The hub is the next step in our mission to help turn the dial on the sport in a meaningful, data-driven, way,” said Links chief executive Michael Wells.

“We have been working with Abertay University for a number of years on some extremely interesting research projects.”

Those included an impact study during last year’s AIG Women’s Open at the Angus links.

The event pumped £6 million into the Angus economy.

Abertay research revealed a 67% increase in those who said they would consider golfing more often following the prestigious tournament.

Projects around the physical activity and health of caddies as well as Carnoustie’s highperformance junior golf programmes are ongoing.

“As an organisation who strives to lead the way in golf development and growing the game, we believe we will be even better placed to take informed decisions and actions through the data provided by our very own research hub,” said Mr Wells.

Dr Graeme Sorbie, of Abertay, said:“Our mission is to help make golf more accessible for anyone who wants to participate.

“Our research aims to have a meaningful impact on the people involved in golf, both now and in the future.

“It’s important that the sport continues to innovate and grow sustainably.”

FAIRWAY TO GO: From left are Carnoustie Golf Links chief executive Mike Wells; Dr Ashley Williams, Jonny Glen and Dr Graeme Sorbie, all Abertay University; and Keir McNicoll, PGA head professional at Carnoustie Golf Links. Picture by Kim Cessford.