Musselburgh to Hold Celebration Week Before 150th Open Championship


Musselburgh Old Course Golf Club, site of the world's oldest golf course, is hosting the official Scottish Golf Heritage Festival, a golf tournament and festival celebration July 9-12, 2010. The tournament, open to golfers worldwide, will celebrate the 150th anniversary of first Open champion Willie Park Sr.

Musselburgh Old Course at Musselburgh Links MOCGC) is recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest surviving golf course in the world, and was host to six Open Championships between 1874 and 1889.

Born in Musselburgh, Park Sr. (1834-1903) is remembered as one of the greatest golfers of history. In 1860 Park beat a field of eight, including Old Tom Morris, to win the inaugural Open Championship. He won again in 1863, 1866 and 1875 and was runner up four times.

The four-day tournament takes place less than a week before the 2010 Open and will be attended by Tony Jacklin, Ryder Cup, British and U.S. Open winner. Commenting on his involvement, Jacklin said, "I am delighted to be attending this event at the world's oldest golf course, to celebrate Willie Park's remarkable achievement and unite with the people of Musselburgh and golfers worldwide. In 2005 I had the honor of introducing him at his induction into World Golf Hall of Fame. I am thrilled at the prospect of playing at his home course. I hope golfers sit up and take notice of how important Musselburgh was to the formation of the game we all enjoy today."

This is a unique opportunity for golf enthusiasts to play three challenging and golf courses in East Lothian, including Royal Musselburgh, Longniddry and Musselburgh Old Course, as well as immerse themselves in Scottish culture and history.

"Competitors will help us celebrate the unique achievement of the legendary Willie Park Senior" says Robin McGregor, CEO of 1672 Golf Management Solutions Ltd, event organizer and Secretary of the MOCGC. "In addition to giving participating golfers a quality golfing experience we also have a traditional line-up of entertainment including a whisky tasting evening, and a gala dinner and awards ceremony."

On the final day of the competition, July 12, spectators, participants and the public will be entertained by trick-shot artist David Edwards and watch the competitors, including Tony Jacklin, play with hickory clubs.

1672 Golf Director Kenny Craig added: "We intend to showcase East Lothian at its very best during our festival day on July 12th. Spectators will be entertained by many off-course activities, including MOCGC member David Edwards' spectacular golf trick show, golf history tours of the clubhouse and surrounding area and a 'tented village' for local East Lothian producers to show off their superb range of products. There will be no charge for those wishing to just come along and enjoy the activities. It will be a superb family and community day out and everyone is welcome, including non-golfers."

Early-bird registration for the tournament is currently priced at £399. Space is limited and early booking is recommended. For more details, itinerary and registration forms, visit www.golfworldsoldest.co.uk.