On 30th June, which would have been the 183rd birthday of Willie Park Snr, first Champion Golfer of the Year, The Open unveiled the 1st Prestwick Collection, a new line of clothing and accessories within its official heritage merchandise range.
The 1st Prestwick Collection celebrates the history and tradition of The Open since the Championship was first played in 1860 at Prestwick Golf Club. The Open will return to its birthplace in Ayrshire this summer when it is played at Royal Troon from 14-17 July, a short distance up the coastline from Prestwick.
A unique selection of men’s and women’s clothing features in the 1st Prestwick Collection, including stylish polo shirts, knitwear and outerwear from Polo Ralph Lauren, a Patron and Official Outfitter of The Open. A variety of headwear, leather goods and golf accessories are also available.
Willie Park Snr, born 30th June 1833, was the first winner of The Open with a score of 174 when it was first staged at Prestwick in 1860. He would go on to win The Open four times in his golfing career.
Two short films featuring Mungo Park, the great grandson of Willie Park Snr, and Sheila Walker, the great-great granddaughter of Old Tom Morris have been produced to tell the story of the first Open Championship at Prestwick and highlight the legacy that both Willie Park Snr and Old Tom Morris created for The Open. The films can be viewed below:
Willie Park Snr, the first Champion Golfer of the Year with Mungo Park
Old Tom Morris and the first tee shot at The Open with Sheila Walker
Mike Tate, Executive Director – Business Affairs, The R&A, said, “We are delighted to launch the 1st Prestwick Collection, a heritage range of merchandise which represents the rich history of The Open and celebrates the staging of golf’s first championship at Prestwick in 1860. It’s a legacy that continues to inspire fans of The Open around the world.
“The revenue generated from sales of the 1st Prestwick Collection will be channelled into golf projects worldwide, including developing the game in emerging golf nations, and encouraging sustainability in the management of the golf course environment.”
The 1st Prestwick Collection is available to buy at the newly launched online shop for The Open at www.TheOpen.com/1stPrestwick, The Open’s official retail store at Glasgow Airport, and Prestwick Golf Club Professional Shop.
Spectators attending The 145th Open at Royal Troon can also purchase merchandise from the 1st Prestwick Collection and secure their own piece of Open history.
The 145th Open will be played at Royal Troon from 14-17 July 2016
R&A www.randa.org