Free camping for under 25s at The Open in Ayrshire
Bosses of the event in Ayrshire are hoping the move opens it up to the next generation of golf fans.
A camping village at The Open is set to offer free accommodation to the next generation of golf fans this year at Royal Troon to ensure the event is open to all.
Fans aged 25 and under will be able to book one of the 500 camping places at The Open Camping Village which will be a short walk from the course at Marr Rugby Club.
The Open returns to Ayrshire this summer from 10 – 17 July and see the world’s best players competing to become Champion Golfer of the Year.
Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, Executive Director – Championships at The R&A said: “There will be an exciting festival atmosphere at Troon throughout the week of The Open as thousands of people come together for a true celebration of golf.
“The new Camping Village will provide a fun and safe accommodation option for young people.
“The Open is a wonderful opportunity for young fans to get up close to their favourite players and we know this will help inspire future generations to pick up a club and take part themselves.
The site will feature two, four and six person pre-pitched tents along with inflatable camping beds for each guest. There will be food and drink options and shower facilities on-site, as well as free parking. Security will be operating 24 hours a day.
Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by at least one adult, or two adults of any age.
The Open offers a variety of ticketing options including a discounted Youth Ticket for spectators aged 16 to 21 which costs from ÂŁ5 on the first Practice Day to ÂŁ25 for Championship Days.
This year sees The Open celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Kids Go Free Initiative which gives children under 16 free admission to the event when they are accompanied by an adult.
More than 300,000 children have experienced The Open for free since the programme was first introduced at Royal Troon in 1997.
Tickets for The Open are currently available at early season pricing, with prices set to rise after 31 May.
Spectators can register their interest now at www.TheOpen.com/camping with bookings being taken at the start of May..