ROYAL Dornoch Golf Club says it is anticipating an upsurge in entries for this year’s Carnegie Shield.
The Carnegie Shield which is located in the Royal Dornoch Golf Club Clubhouse.
It’s one of the most famous trophies in amateur golf and demand has outstripped supply in recent years.
Now, with the new clubhouse up and running, general manager Neil Hampton expects even heavier demand for the 270 places for the week-long competition.
Applications will be accepted from 9am on Monday, February 9 for the 112th Carnegie Shield, which runs from August 9-15. The ballot for the strictly limited spots will take place on February 26.
“The Shield is always a huge week on our calendar,” said Hampton.
“We see it as our very own Major and given its World Amateur Golf Ranking and the first time many of the participants, their family and friends will have the opportunity to enjoy our fabulous new clubhouse, it promises to be even more special.
“There were 80 names on the waiting list last year, with competitors drawn from countries around the globe.”
• Read: Royal Dornoch Junior Golfers compete in United States.
The famous trophy was gifted to Royal Dornoch in 1901 by Scots-born US steel magnate Andrew Carnegie, one of the world’s wealthiest figures of the era, and it now enjoys pride of place in the new clubhouse, with a video loop capturing close-ups of the intricate craftsmanship.
“The Shield is a source of genuine pride among members at home and abroad,” said Neil.
“It was always earmarked to enjoy a high-profile place in the new clubhouse, which highlights the heritage of a club counting down to our 150th anniversary in 2027.
“The ornate workmanship of the silversmiths from James Weir and Co in Glasgow really is extraordinary, featuring the Lion Rampant and Stars and Stripes to reflect a close relationship the club continues to enjoy with the United States to this day.
“It cost £120 to craft but one thing is for certain; it is priceless to the club.
“The silverwork features images of the town, the castle, the Cathedral and Skibo Castle, which had been restored by the Carnegies and was their summer home when Andrew and his wife Louise were active members of the club.
“Thanks to the video technology, even members familiar with the Shield have been discovering small details that had evaded them in the past.”
Last year, Bathgate Golf Club member Graham Bell won the Carnegie Shield for the first time in his career.
The foster carer and part time delivery driver defeated seven-time and 2024 champion Chris Mailley 2&1 in the final as he claimed victory at the 17th.
Bell’s triumph came 10 years after his last appearance in the final when he was defeated by Bryan Fotheringham in 2015. He has been competing in the competition every year it has been organised since 2012.
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