The fariways at Gleneagles will be a sea of tartan when it hosts the Ryder Cup thanks to a new charity effort.
Ryder Cup ambassador Alan Hansen gave his backing to Tartan Tuesday, a new charitable element to the first day of the September contest.
All spectators coming to the first practice day are being encouraged to wear a piece of tartan as a sign of welcome to the Ryder Cup players, who will be on course for the first time as a team.
One-off tartan clothes pins will also be on sale at the event, with all proceeds going to the official Ryder Cup charities.
“It should be a great sight, seeing flickers of tartan all over the course,” said Alan.
“Tartan is an iconic Scottish image and a major fashion trend, so it’s the ideal way to welcome the Ryder Cup players to Gleneagles.
“While the Ryder Cup pits Europe against the USA, I think it is a fantastic idea to give the players a warm welcome to Scotland with Tartan Tuesday.
“Every Ryder Cup has a unique atmosphere and the first practice day will set the tone for the whole week.”
Practice days are the best opportunity for fans to see the stars of both Ryder Cup teams up close and in relaxed mood as they get acquainted with the PGA Centenary course at Gleneagles.
The teams will practise on course and at the driving range, where special autograph areas have been arranged.
Tartan Tuesday is just one of the events that will take place during the practice days.
The days preceding the three match days include the opening ceremony on Thursday September 25 and the Junior Ryder Cup Friendship Match the day before, which will showcase golf’s best young talent.
As part of the event, new signs are appearing in Blairgowrie and Rattray welcoming the Junior Ryder Cup, which will take place at Blairgowrie Golf Club on September 22 and 23.
The junior event is likely to be more popular than ever, with 4,500 young people getting the chance to watch the under-18s play.
Perth and Kinross Provost Liz Grant said: “I’m delighted to be unveiling the first of these new signs, which celebrate the pride Blairgowrie and Rattray take in hosting the vibrant junior event.
“As well as bringing visitors to the area, the Junior Ryder Cup is a successful partnership with Club Golf, allowing thousands of young people a unique insight into the game.”