Fellowship International Rotary Golf Tournament History

Wed, May 4th 2022 at 12:50 pm - 2:00 pm

Angus Mitchell, Bill Whyte and Douglas Jackson gave highlights over the 68 years of organising this special tournament.

Fellowship International Rotary Golf Tournament History -

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After lunch, the President introduced the three guest speakers, Angus Mitchell, Bill Whyte and Douglas Jackson who spoke with great authority as Members of the Club about the history of the International Golf Tournament. The concept of a tournament was first discussed in 1953, the plan being that it would be a one-off event. However, 68 years later it has become a major event for the Rotary Club of St Andrews. In the early years, four teams of eight were selected from the qualifying rounds, but from 2005 this had been changed to five teams of nine. Indeed, a feature of the Tournament has been the way in which it has adapted to the needs of the time, as well as to changing attitudes.

After a break of two years, this year will see 312 Rotarians take part in the Tournament - 252 gentlemen and 60 ladies. They will descend on St Andrews from all parts of the globe, including 42 from the home countries, 39 from Denmark, 22 from the Unites States, 4 from Hong Kong and 1 from Mozambique. A running theme mentioned by all three speakers was the fellowship aspect of the Tournament and its very friendly nature.

Eric Brown gave a very spirited and amusing vote of thanks, during which he praised the hard work and commitment of the past and current Convenors in putting together a complex but hugely worthwhile Tournament. The International Toast then concluded what had been a most informative and memorable talk.