Tickets are now on sale for the 2011 Open Championship at Royal St George’s, with discounts available for early purchases. The Open sees a return to the Kent coast for the first time since 2003, when the USA’s Ben Curtis, playing in his first Major Championship, overcame Vijay Singh and Thomas Bjorn to lift the Claret Jug in a thrilling climax.
Spectators who purchase before 31 December 2010 can take advantage of daily tickets at a special rate, with as much as £10 off the price spectators will pay on the gate. And for those who do not want to miss a shot at Sandwich, season tickets offering entry on all eight days of the Championship are available at the price of £195 if bought before the end of this calendar year, a saving of almost 20%. Early purchase reductions also apply to a number of concessionary tickets.
Tickets purchased before 13 December will arrive in time for Christmas.
“We are pleased to be able to offer attractive discounts on most ticket types for next year’s Open,” said David Hill, The R&A’s Director of Championships. “Recognising the times we are in, we want to offer savings for early purchases to reward the many enthusiastic spectators we see coming back to The Open year on year.
“With Sandwich being within easy reach of London and the surrounding areas, we hope many golf fans in the south east will take advantage of these savings.”
For spectators looking to enhance their Open experience, new for 2011 is the International Marquee, a facility in which members of the general public can take a break from walking the course and sit down to enjoy quality food and drink, whilst keeping track of the golf on television. International Marquee access on the four championship days costs £40 and must be accompanied by a valid ticket permitting course access.
The Greenside Club ticket will once again provide admission to the course, access to a private marquee and reserved seats within the grandstand behind the 18th green, which provides unparalleled viewing of The Open’s 72nd hole. Inside the marquee, televisions offer uninterrupted live footage and real-time scores from the course and complimentary newspapers, tea and coffee will be provided.
Tickets will continue to be available to purchase on the day at the gate. A daily ticket purchased on arrival at the course on the four championship days (14-17 July 2011) will cost £60. Under-16’s will continue to be admitted free of charge and concessions will be available.
Half-price entry to The Senior Open Championship, which is being held the following week at Walton Heath Golf Club, Surrey, will be granted on production of a valid Open Championship admission ticket.
Further information can be found on Opengolf.com. Ticket enquiries should be directed through Opengolf.com or by calling the Ticket Office on +44 (0) 1334 460010.
The Open Championship www.Opengolf.com