The R&A has commissioned an independent firm to study the impact that the 152nd Open Championship, held at Royal Troon and won by Xander Schauffele, has had on the Scottish economy.
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The results are, as always, impressive.
In addition to breaking the attendance record (258,174 people), the Open has generated revenue for the Scottish economy of 303.3 million pounds.
In light of this latest benefit, the Scottish Government and the Tourist Board have decided to return the favor to the R&A, obviously on a smaller scale, through a multi-year agreement.
Over the course of 11 years, the Government and VisitScotland will invest 11 million pounds in support of the championships run by the R&A, namely The Open, the AIG Women's Open and the Senior Open.
R&A, statements
Martin Slumbers, the outgoing CEO of the R&A, said:
The partnership with the Scottish Government and VisitScotland ensures continued support for our championships in famous venues across the country, reinforcing Scotlands international reputation as the Home of Golf and providing a world-class stage to host major events
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Several independent studies have shown that major championship golf provides significant economic benefits to Scotland by driving tourism, showcasing the country to a global audience and generating income for local communities and businesses.
Speaking of The Open, there is currently no timetable for a return to Scotland (but tradition dictates that it returns to St. Andrews every 5 years, Ed.).
The 153rd Open Championship will return to Portrush, while the following year it will be held at Royal Birkdale.
There is also no news on a possible return to the Rota of Turnberry.
Despite the request for pardon made in the summer by Nic Oldham, the general manager of the facility, Slumbers himself reiterated these days to Golf Channel that the position of the R&A has not changed.
I think Turnberry is a fantastic golf course, and it is my favourite links, but the position (of the R&A,, Editors note) is clear, and there is a marked path if the situation were to change.
