Young golfers

ClubGolf is a national junior golf programme in Scotland, first delivered in primary schools as a taster course for nine-year-olds. If your local school offers the programme, it’s a great way of introducing kids to the sport for the first time, but it’s not the only way.

Coaching through the programme is also available at local golf clubs throughout Scotland, gradually building on skills through Stages One and Two, until kids move on to the Scottish Golf Development Academy (a 50-hour coaching programme) to further improve their game. Scotland’s most talented young golfers can progress to the Scottish Golf Performance Academy, a programme designed to nurture players from the age of 12 and upwards through specialised, personal support.

Colin Sinclair, head professional at Carnoustie Golf Links, recommends taking aspiring young golfers for expert coaching where possible, adding: “There should be a PGA pro at a golf club close to where most people live. You can Google them, or look on the websites of your nearest clubs. They’re geared to helping people play golf and we do it because we love it.

“Go and see them, most will have a junior programme, some will charge for it, some won’t charge for it because it will be subsidised. You don’t have to join a club, buy golf shoes or clubs for kids, but they can try it out.”

Whether it’s the Open or another major tournament, watching the professionals at work and getting caught up in the action is one of the best ways of inspiring kids to get involved with golf. And with tickets to the Open free to youngsters aged 15 and under, and discounts available for 16 to 24-year-olds, it’s an ideal opportunity for a fun, family day out that may just prove to be the motivation they need to swap the Xbox controller for a golf club.

A camping village, twice the size of last year’s Open, will include readypitched tents, inflatable beds, and even glamping options, with youth ticket holders eligible to camp for free. And with food and drink outlets on site at the spectator village, kids’ play area and giant screens, free golf lessons, putting, and the HSBC Grassroots Skillzone for children to develop their skills, the Open promises to offer all-round entertainment for visitors of any age.