R&A appoints David Scott as sixth ever Honorary Professional

The R&A has appointed David Scott as the golf club’s new Honorary Professional.

The 61-year-old becomes only the sixth person ever to hold the role and succeeds Jim Farmer who died in November.

Scott, a PGA Master Professional, is a well-known figure in UK and Scottish golf and was elected captain of the PGA last month.

“I’m deeply honoured to have been appointed Honorary Professional by The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews,” he said.

“Having grown up playing golf in the town I know just how important a role The Royal and Ancient Golf Club plays in the sport, and it is a privilege to become involved and support the members.”

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Mark Darbon, Secretary of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, added: “We are delighted that David will become the Club’s Honorary Professional.

“He is a hugely popular figure and brings a wealth of experience in golf to the role. I’m sure the members will be looking forward immensely to working with him.”

Scott was born and raised in St Andrews and qualified as a PGA Professional in 1985.

He won the award as Scottish Assistant of the Year in the final exam before serving as an assistant and then club professional.

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He also took on roles as Director of Golf at Kingsbarns Golf Links, Golf Manager and Director of Operations at the Old Course Hotel Golf Resort and Spa before becoming General Manager at Dumbarnie Links, his current role, in 2020.

Scott also previously served as a Rules Official on the European (now DP World) Tour and with the PGA and the R&A.

His predecessor, Farmer, was appointed Honorary Professional in 2006 and held the role for 18 years.

Andrew Kirkcaldy was the very first Honorary Professional, appointed in 1910, before Willie Auchterlonie, Laurie Auchterlonie and John Panton all enjoyed stints.

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.