Thousands secure Old Course tee time through new system

Single golfers aiming to secure a tee time on the Old Course are in luck.

Previously, St Andrews hopefuls would queue outside the starter’s hut, with some camping for up to 12 hours in a bid to land a spot.

But golfers no longer need to battle the elements just to strike a chance of playing. That’s because a new digital system has launched and, well, the results are in.

Introduced in March 2024 by St Andrews Links Trust, a total of 14,489 golfers applied for a tee time through the singles draw – and more than 3,600 golfers were awarded a tee time.

The previous process, which had been in place since the 1990s, was replaced by the singles draw as a ‘modern and equitable solution’ to its in-person queuing system.

It requires golfers entering their details in person at the Old Pavilion next to the first tee between 9am-5pm the day before they wish to play, as well as submitting a photograph of themselves.

• R&A launches campaign to combat WHS ‘cheating’

• Prestigious course reopens after £1.5 million upgrade

A randomised draw will then take place at 5pm with golfers notified by text message and email whether they have been allocated a tee time.

Individuals are given the chance to join existing groups of two or three who are pre-booked to play.

“Last year we introduced a new, digital system allowing golfers in St Andrews to enter the draw for a single walk-up tee time the following day,” said Laurie Watson, Director of Engagement at St Andrews Links Trust.

“We are delighted that so many people have been able to enjoy playing the iconic Old Course as a result of the new, simplified and fair sign-up process.

“The Links Trust is committed to doing all we can to increase access to golf and our world-famous courses, and modernising our functions is just one way we can support golfers to play.”

• Popular golf club for sale – but plans labelled ‘unacceptable’

• Golf club has historic trophies stolen in ‘shocking’ burglary

A report highlighted that 6,592 applicants during the first year of the new system were from the US, with 2,966 being successful.

Meanwhile, a further 925 golfers from the UK applied, with 649 of them securing an Old Course tee time.

There were 227 entries on the busiest day, while other successful applicants included golfers from Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Germany, France, Sweden and Ireland.

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.