Almost 12 hours after they approached the Starter's Box to form a queue the D'Aguanno family teed it up on the hallowed first tee of the Old Course.
The family from Rhode Island in America are on a special golfing holiday to Scotland to celebrate father Curt's 60th birthday. They decided that to complete the "bucket list" they would have to play the world renowned Old Course before they returned home.
After being unsuccessful in the Ballot they decided there was nothing else for it but to join the singles queue at the Starter's Box. Leaving nothing to chance they arrived in total darkness at 11pm last night and began a long overnight wait.
The Starter arrived first thing this morning and informed them that he should be able to join them up with three separate groups this morning. At that moment fate intervened when a group scheduled for the 10.40am time called in to cancel. The D'Aguannos were first in line, and, after a swift breakfast and very little sleep, they hurried along to take up the slot.
"It has been an amazing night but we were absolutely determined to play the Old Course," said Kathy. "We have had a fabulous time and played some great courses here but this is the most special. The people have been so friendly, it really has been unbelievable. We just couldn't miss out on playing here where it all started."
Image: Curt, Kathy, Dylan (15) and Eric (14) D'Aguanno on the 16th tee of the Old Course.