Tour issues update on Scottish Open

Situation has not changed, insists championship director Adams

King of the Castle: Luke Donald won the 2011 Scottish Open at Castle Stuart before sponsor Barclays pulled out

The European Tour insists that nothing has changed with regards to the Scottish Open’s future, despite various conflicting reports in the media.

Since title-sponsor Barclays announced in September that it would not be renewing its support, there has been feverish speculation in the press about the long-term sustainability of Scotland’s flagship professional golf event.

Some have suggested that the tournament, which traditionally takes place the week before the Open, might be forced to move from its coveted date on the schedule, whilst others have suggested that it may be scrapped altogether if a new sponsor cannot be found.

However, speaking to bunkered.co.uk, Peter Adams, the championship director, said: “The situation has not changed since we announced that we are seeking a new title sponsor. The European Tour is in conversation with a number of interested parties and the outcome of those discussions will be announced at the appropriate time.”

If the tournament does go ahead as planned, it appears unlikely that it will move from its home at Castle Stuart Golf Links.

The championship was held at the Inverness-shire venue for the first time this year following a long and successful residency at Loch Lomond Golf Club, and, despite adverse weather conditions, it was a move that was broadly warmly received.

That notwithstanding, some sections of the media have reported that the event’s future there could be threatened by a new sponsor who may wish to re-locate it.

However, a spokesperson for Castle Stuart commented: “We have a three-year contract in place and so as long as the Scottish Open is played in 2012 and 2013 then it will be played at Castle Stuart Golf Links.”

Adams wouldn’t be drawn on specifics of the hosting agreement but did add: “We have conducted a de-brief with Castle Stuart in relation to the 2011 championship. This is standard procedure and something we do for every European Tour event we are involved in.”

Bryce Ritchie is the Editor of bunkered and, in addition to leading on content and strategy, oversees all aspects of the brand. The first full-time journalist employed by bunkered, he joined the company in 2001 and has been editor since 2009. A member of Balfron Golfing Society, he currently plays off nine and once got a lesson from Justin Thomas’ dad.

Editor of bunkered