Tom Lehman sounds call for Troon Junior Open

Aug 3 2012 by Mike WIlson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

HURRY for the Troon Junior Open for the Tom Lehman Trophies.

That’s the message from the great man himself – US legend Tom Lehman.

Organised by South Ayrshire Council’s Golf South Ayrshire and Buzzworks, it takes place over the Darley, Fullarton and Lochgreen courses on Tuesday, August 7.

And – with top golf prizes worth £2,500 on offer – it’s one not to be missed.

Tom helped establish the competition, which is recognised as one of the top events for young golfers in the UK, after playing The Open at Royal Troon in 1997 and donating money for junior golf.

Open to under 18s on January 1, 2012, the one-day tournament offers both scratch and handicap prizes including the Tom Lehman Trophies – two replica silver claret jugs – for the boy and girl with the lowest scratch score.

The claret jugs joined Lehman at Turnberry where he was playing in the Senior Open.

He said: “It’s great to be back in Scotland and I’m very proud to have my name associated with junior golf through the competition at Troon.

“Competitions like the Troon Junior Open are a terrific starting ground for young golfers and give you the chance to become a better player and a better person – and even to win these wonderful silver claret jugs.

“This is the first opportunity I’ve had to see them in person and it’s easy to see why any young golfer would want to compete for them. I hope all juniors who love golf and love to compete take the opportunity to enter the Troon Junior Open and I’ll be keeping an eye out to see who wins.”

Delighted to be joining Tom were two of this year’s Troon Junior Open entrants, Lauren Gilbert (14), from Largs and Andrew Gordon (13) from Belleisle.

Also lending her support was South Ayrshire Provost Helen Moonie, who will present the trophies.

Buzzworks director, Kenny Blair, added: “As a local company with golf very close to our heart, we are excited to hear Tom encourage entrants for his namesake tournament.

“It’s a great event that gives you a chance to show what you’re made of, so come along and help make the 2012 Tom Lehman tournament the best ever.”

Entry to the Junior Open is £5, which includes a free packed lunch and goody bag.

Entry forms are available at www.golfsouthayrshire.com/tomlehman or by calling 01292 616255.