Scots golfers are sure of a warm welcome in Cyprus
The Scottish contingent heading over to Cyprus this week can expect a warm welcome – and a familiar accent – when they pitch up at Aphrodite Hills just outside Paphos.
The European Tour will enter new territory when it stages the island’s first two events on the circuit over the next two weeks – the Cyprus Open and the Cyprus Showdown.
It’s a big deal for all concerned, in particular Robert Reynolds, one of the professionals at the resort.
For him, it’s a case of born in Edinburgh, forged in Cyprus.
Robert, 26, moved to the island when he was 11 when his father was posted there with the Armed Forces.
His parents set up home and his younger brother, Alastair, plays professional football in the Cypriot First Division.
So it’s clear that Robert is more at home in the Med than Midlothian.
“Scotland will always be there, but I’ve spent over half my life in Cyprus, and it’s a great place to be,” he says.
“I took up golf in Cyprus, and
I only played in a few events in Scotland during the summers when I was a junior, nothing more than that.
“But in the last few years, I’ve been fortunate enough to play some great courses with members here, who are also members at courses back in Scotland.
“I have to say I find it a bit cold when I go back. It’s not exactly what I’m used to.
“I’ve played golf with four jackets on. Trying to swing the club in that, I feel like a snowman!”
Robert will be on duty on the practice range for both of the upcoming tournaments, and will be hoping to get a socially-distanced sneak-peek at how some of the best golfers in Europe go about their business.
He’s determined to help out in any way he can to let Cyprus put on a good show, and maybe become a regular stopping point for the European Tour.
“The course is looking brilliant,” he reports.
“A lot of work has been put in, including some new black tees for the pros to lengthen some of the holes.
“This is a great venue for the Tour to come to, and it will be fascinating to see how the players get on.
“For two tour events to come here is great for the island, the resort and for golf in Cyprus.
“The weather’s looking good – around 30C – so it’s a great time of year to be here, and I’m sure the course will come across really well on the television.”