As the curtain came down on the Dunhill Links Championship a host of top celebrities spoke of their love of playing golf in Courier Country.
The stars have this week been accompanying the European Tour’s top players across four days of pro-am competition.
St Andrews, Carnoustie and Kingsbarns were the setting for amateurs and celebrities to join with the pros at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship.
Olympic rowing hero Sir Steve Redgrave said: “The camaraderie and the courses are what make this such a special week.”
One of cricket’s greatest all-rounders, Sir Ian Botham described it as “the best week of my life”.
He said: “I thoroughly enjoy it and I think we all do.”
Former Westlife singer Brian McFadden said: “This is my first year and it’s got to be one of the best weeks of my life.”
Downton Abbey star Matthew Goode was returning to Courier Country for the second time to play in the tournament.
He said: “Playing in the Dunhill is special.
“It’s unusual to be able to spend a week so close to many of one’s golf heroes.
“Not only the golfers themselves but the other extraordinary men and women from sport, the arts and business.”
Australian cricket legend Shane Warne hailed the “amazing” spectactors and the unique atmosphere they create — especially at the Old Course in St Andrews.
He said: “They have been brought up with the golf, they understand the game and they’re very supportive.
“If you do play a good shot they say ‘well done’ and it’s a fantastic feeling when the crowd gets behind you.”
Boyzone singer Ronan Keating said: “I absolutely love it.
“To get the chance to play three great golf courses side-by-side with true professionals in a tournament set-up is unique and very, very special.”
German football legend Michael Ballack said it was a considerable honour to be able to play as an amateur alongside the world-class field of professionals.
“The Old Course, Carnoustie, Kingsbarns, do I have a favourite?” he said.
“All three are legendary and they are stunning.
“But if I really have to pick one, I would say that I really love playing at St Andrews because it’s somewhat similar to gambling, given the bunkers’ layouts.
“On the other hand, I find Kingsbarns to be the most beautiful course on the sea, with an amazing layout.
“The most difficult course to my eyes is Carnoustie, particularly when the weather is rough…especially for an amateur.”
