Old Prestwick
The first Open Championship was held at Prestwick in 1860, which was organised by the members who subscribed 25 to purchase a red morocco belt with silver clasps. It was won by Willie Park of Musselburgh with a score of 174 over 36 holes. The Belt was won in three successive years by Young Tom Morris from 1868 to 1870 and thus became his property. When Morris won for the third time, in 1870, he had a first round score of 47 over 12 holes, a score that has never been equalled or bettered. He started with a three at the 578 yard first hole- in those days a par 6. His Belt is now in the keeping of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews. A replica Belt was presented to Sandy Lyle, the winner of the 125th Anniversary Open Championship at Royal St. Georges' Golf Club. Another Belt is on display in the Cardinal room in the Prestwick clubhouse. There was no Championship in 1871 and, and thereafter, Prestwick, the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, and the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers joined forces to purchase a current Claret Jug for ?30, played for in the Open Championship.
When the Championship was revived in 1872 Young Tom won again, thus winning the Open four times in a row- a feat no other golfer has ever matched, or likely will. In 1914 Harry Vardon won the Open for a record sixth time, three victories of which were at Prestwick. You will be assured of enjoying playing on this Hallowed Turf which is simply steeped in Golfing History.
Courses Nearby:
Turnberry, Western Gailes, Carrick (Loch Lomond), Old Prestick and Royal Troon
Accommodation:
The 4* Old Loans Inn, Troon and the 4* Lochgreen House Hotel, Troon
Non-Golfing Activities:
Shopping in Glasgow, Waverley Paddle Steamer, Day trip to the Island of Arran. Contact us for further information
