The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Get a ‘blow-away’ golf experience
Courier features writer Gayle Ritchie speaks to head pro Colin Sinclair about the enduring appeal of the Open
If you play golf or are a fan of the sport, you won’t need convincing that the Open is going to be a fantastic experience.
But what’s in it for those who have never so much as held a club or hit a ball?
Colin Sinclair, head professional at Carnoustie Golf Links, has plenty of answers.
“Whether you’re into golf or not, the Open is an opportunity to see the very best players perform and to have the very best experience of the game in the world,” he said.
“That opportunity only comes around once a year in the UK, and this year, it’s happening here at Carnoustie.
“You’ll learn from watching the very best. And, who knows, people who don’t know much about the sport or who aren’t fans of golf might be inspired and think: ‘I want to be able to do that, too’.”
Another great thing is that kids go free when accompanied by adults, so the Open guarantees a fun-filled (and not too pricey) family day out. The atmosphere will be electric and there will be initiatives such as free lessons with PGA professionals on offer, too.
Looking to the future, Colin aims to improve the ‘Carnoustie experience’ for members and guests, make it a mustvisit destination and boost the numbers of ladies, children, families and disabled players.
“I want everyone to be able to come here and enjoy a game of golf,” he said.
“It doesn’t have to be outdoors in the freezing cold because now we have state-of-the-art indoor teaching bays.
“We’re anything but snobbish. We welcome everyone with open arms.”
For just £10 an hour per person, you can rent a bay in the indoor performance centre complete with state-of-the-art simulators. These allow visitors to play 3D reconstructions of some of the world’s most famous golf courses, and you can choose whether it’s raining, windy, full-on sunshine or a combination of all types of weather!
For those who love shopping, eating and drinking, the new facilities have something for everyone.
With stunning views across the course to the sea, The Rookery showcases the best produce Scotland has to offer.
Open for lunch and dinner, the restaurant offers a relaxing eating space with a sweeping outlook over the golf links.
“Come for a game, a drink, a bite to eat, a browse in the shop and you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience,” said Colin.
“After the Open, I think people will realise just how amazing this fantastic, world-class venue truly is.
“We want to offer a blow-away experience for everyone who comes here, and while we don’t blow our own trumpets about what we’ve got at Carnoustie, we really should.
“Being associated with the Open is the primary reason we attract so many overseas visitors who generate huge amounts of revenue not only for us but for our town and local community. The investment is put back into our facilities, courses and junior golf programme and money is donated by Carnoustie Golf Links to local good causes.”
For anyone considering taking up golf, Colin has some advice.
“I love golf so I don’t see my job as work – it’s my hobby and I’d encourage anyone to try our great game,” he said.
“When starting out, visit a PGA Professional to learn how to play the game. I see too many golfers who regard taking a lesson as a sign of weakness but the truth is, your game will improve with correct instruction. Most importantly, have fun... and enjoy the Open!”