The group Palestine Action later claimed responsibility for the vandalism at the 800-acre resort, which was said to be carried out as a “direct response to the US administration’s stated intent to ethnically cleanse Gaza”.
A spokesperson from Palestine Action said in a release from the group: “Palestine Action rejects Donald Trump’s treatment of Gaza as though it were his property to dispose of as he likes. To make that clear, we have shown him that his own property is not safe from acts of resistance. We will continue to take action against US-Israeli colonialism in the Palestinian homeland.”
The words “Gaza is not 4 sale” was also sprayed across one of the greens, while the walls of the clubhouse and the entrance to the hotel were also splashed with red paint and anti-Trump graffiti.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 4.40am on Saturday, 8 March, we received a report of damage to the golf course and a premises at Turnberry. Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 0636.”
A spokesman for Trump Turnberry said: “This was a childish, criminal act but the incredible team at Trump Turnberry will ensure it does not impact business. Turnberry is a national treasure and will continue to be the number one beacon of luxury and excellence in the world of golf.”
Donald Trump purchased Turnberry in 2014 and has since invested considerably in upgrading the resort, including instigating a significant remodelling of several holes on the Ailsa Course. The latest changes to the layout – specifically, newly-designed 7th and 8th holes – are due to be unveiled next month.
Turnberry has staged The Open Championship four times, most recently in 2009, but The R&A has made no indication that it plans to return there under its current ownership.
Speaking to The Telegraph last week, Mark Darbon, the new chief executive of the R&A, said: “The position at the moment, in respect of Turnberry, is that we will not be taking events there until we’re comfortable that the whole dialogue will be about golf. That is a situation we’re still not comfortable with, but that could evolve in the coming years.”
