Ladies Scottish Open gets a shakeup

The Ladies Scottish Open has been given a significant boost with the news that title sponsor Aberdeen Asset Management and the Scottish Government have pledged their support for the tournament until 2017.

The agreement sees the event make the move to Dundonald Links, having had its home at Archerfield Links since 2010. The tournament’s prize fund will also be increased to €500,000 as part of the three year deal.

In addition, a new date for the event has been established with a strong player field expected to do battle in the unique pro-am event in Ayrshire from July 24-26, 2015.

That means the Ladies Scottish Open will take place just one week ahead of the Ricoh Women’s British Open, at nearby Turnberry.

This emulates the men’s Scottish Open, which sits just one week ahead of the Open Championship, giving both sets of players the ideal links preparation ahead of the major.

July 2015 a huge month for Scottish golf

men’s Scottish Open –  July 9-12

the Open – July 16-19

Ladies Scottish Open – July 24- 26

women’s British Open – July 30 – August 2

Alex Salmond MSP, the First Minister of Scotland, is hoping the changes will result in the same success enjoyed by the men’s Scottish Open, which has saw the last four Open champions play the event the week before.

“The movement of the Ladies Scottish Open will place the tournament in a similar situation and raises the profile of the women’s gam.” – Alex Salmond MSP

“The men’s Scottish Open now attracts the world’s top players as the challenge of the links game is viewed as the perfect preparation for the following week’s Open Championship,” said the SNP leader.

“The movement of the ladies Scottish Open will place the tournament in a similar situation and raises the profile of the women’s game, which is currently in rude health in Scotland.

“I am confident that the test of Dundonald Links will prove to be a huge draw for more top female golfers to come to Scotland and hone their links game.”

Kylie Walker backs Ladies Scottish Open changes

Kylie Walker, two-time LET winner this season, echoed Salmond’s comments, and is sure the tournament will help her fine tune her game before the Women’s British Open.

“The Aberdeen Asset Management Ladies Scottish Open’s unique format is enjoyed by all the players so I am delighted with the announcement.