Ryder Cup visits the Machrihanish Dunes

THE RYDER CUP trophy has begun a week long tour of Scotland’s golf courses before settling at its temporary Gleneagles home ahead of the 2014 competition.

School children pose with the world famous trophy. Picture: Contributed

Taking in the ‘four corners of Scotland’, the trophy will be arriving at the most Northern, Eastern, Southern and Western courses participating in the ClubGolf junior initiative programme.

Arriving via helicopter, it visited the Machrihanish Dunes on Monday.

At each of the stops fans have the ability to get a photo taken next to the world famous trophy.

“The Official Trophy Tour is a great way to show how The Ryder Cup is making an impact across Scotland and to offer the opportunity to fans and the public across the country to see the iconic Ryder Cup trophy up close,” said Richard Hills, Europe’s Ryder Cup Director.

“The tour underlines the legacy of the event, from ClubGolf and encouraging more young people to take up a fantastic sport to the spotlight of the world focusing on Scottish golf.”

The Argyll based course was chosen because of its dedication to promoting Scottish tourism.

“It’s an absolute pleasure and honour to welcome one of the world’s most recognised sporting trophies to Argyll and Machrihanish Dunes, no doubt one of the most spectacular golf courses in Scotland,” said regional director at Visit Scotland David Adams McGilip.

“As we prepare to host The 2014 Ryder Cup at Gleneagles, the legacy and economic benefits are set to be felt right across Scotland, not just in the accommodation sector but also travel and transport, Scottish food and drink suppliers, attractions and a wide range of businesses throughout the industry.”