Hundreds of young golfers set for Scots tournament

NEARLY 600 young golfers from across the world are set to tee off at a major tournament at courses across East Lothian this week.

Young players take part in 2010's US Kids Golf European Championships at Longniddry. Picture: Jane Barlow

Organisers say a record number of players from around 40 countries are taking part in this year’s US Kids Golf European Championship at five East Lothian links courses.

The 570 aspiring golfers aged between five and 18 will compete against their international peers to be crowned European champion in one of the 16 categories.

The event, held between May 27-29 takes place over five courses - Gullane No 2, Gullane No 3, Craigielaw , Luffness and Longniddry.

Dan Van Horn, president and founder of US Kids Golf, said: “Our ambition has been to see the European Championship grow in strength from year to year, so to see registrations hit record numbers clearly demonstrates the growing reputation and quality of the tournament.”

During the competition, the courses are modified for each age group in order to provide the same level challenge - meaning holes are progressively shorter as the age groups get younger.

Tournament co-ordinator Alasdair Good, head professional at Gullane Golf Club, said: “Bursting through the 550 player number is a huge milestone for us.

“We are also pleased to see an increasing number of players come to Scotland for the first time. This provides an excellent opportunity to showcase Scottish golf to the world, particularly in such an important year for Scotland with the Ryder Cup being played in September.”