Rory McIlroy and Sergio Garcia along with a group of Carnoustie’s junior golfers were on hand to unveil the new Links House as The 147th Open gets underway at Carnoustie Golf Links.
Both stars have history at Carnoustie from the last staging of The Open here in 2007 where Garcia finished runner-up and McIlroy played in his very first major and finished as the low amateur, winning the Silver Medal.
Joining McIlroy and Garcia were 10 of Carnoustie’s juniors (‘The Carnoustie Craws’) and in attendance, representing Carnoustie Golf Links were Pat Sawers, Chairman, and Michael Wells, Chief Executive.
The newly opened Links House provides a world-class visitor experience and includes a state-of-the-art golf practice and training facility, a superbly designed new pro shop, and a contemporary bar and restaurant, The Rookery, that boasts magnificent views over the golf course and Carnoustie Bay.
Michael Wells said: “We are delighted that Rory and Sergio could join our juniors, The Carnoustie Craws, to recognise the opening of Links House. Both players have had extraordinary careers so far and share a special connection with Carnoustie from when The Open was last held here.”
“Therefore, it is fitting that they should be here to open a new chapter in Carnoustie’s history and we wish them both the best of luck this week. The new building offers five-star facilities to complete the golfing experience on offer here at Carnoustie, Golf’s Greatest Test.”
Situated next to the first tee, the new facility provides golfers with a unique experience from the new changing rooms to seven state-of-the-art golf simulators which allows them the opportunity to warm up or practice in style in a virtual on-course environment.
The Rookery restaurant, which overlooks the 1st and 18th holes, rivals many of the top restaurants in the area and provides golfers and guests with an array of delicious food and beverage options to enjoy while taking in the beautiful views.
Carnoustie Golf links www.carnoustiegolflinks.co.uk
The Open www.TheOpen.com