Dog owner apologises to Gareth Bale after Dunhill Links incident

Gareth Bale’s second round at the Alfred Dunhill Links was interrupted by a four-legged friend last week.

The former Wales and Real Madrid star had his ball pinched from the first green at Carnoustie by a four-year old cockapoo called Jock.

A video of the incident went viral on social media as the dog bolted after Bale’s pitch onto the putting surface.

It sparked a heated debate around dogs on golf courses, and Jock’s owner has issued an apology to Bale.

“He just took off after the ball,” the local – who wished to remain anonymous – told The Courier. “It didn’t matter how many times I shouted on him, it was like his ears were painted on.

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“I was a bit embarrassed, and he should have been on his lead, but it happened so quickly.

“I just have to apologise to Gareth for what happened.”

Bale – who plays off a handicap of 0.5 – later told the man he managed to save par, despite having to replace his ball on the green.

A rare ruling took place, and the ex-footballer’s ball was returned to its original spot.

Gareth Bale's golf ball was stolen on the green by a DOG during the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship 🤣🐕 pic.twitter.com/XFwYFwfHwz

— Sky Sports Golf (@SkySportsGolf) October 5, 2024

The video was captured by golf fan Darren McRae and later posted by Sky Sports. It was at that point the local was sent it by his son.

“It was later on in the afternoon, maybe three or four o’clock, my son sent me the video,” he recalled.

“We think it was absolutely hilarious. [Although] I’m really quite embarrassed because some golfers may take offence at it.

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“Then there’s dog owners who think I’m the irresponsible one who will ruin it for them all.”

Dogs are welcome at the championship each year, which is played across three venues: Kingsbarns Golf Links, Carnoustie and the Old Course.

However, a message on the tournament’s website notes: “[Dogs] should be kept on a lead and controlled at all times. Owners are responsible for their own animal.”

John Turnbull A graduate of the University of Stirling, John joined the bunkered team in 2023 as a Content Producer, with a responsibility for covering all breaking news, tour news, grassroots content and much more besides. A keen golfer, he plays the majority of his golf at Falkirk Tryst Golf Club. Top of his 'bucket list' is a round of Pebble Beach... ideally in the company of Gareth Bale.