For the first time, golfers on the Links will have a choice of yellow or white tees to play off for a trial period next season following a decision by the Links Management Committee.
The white tee markers are usually reserved for competitive play, but from April, golfers wanting more of a challenge will be able to play from these markers at any time rather than only from the yellow markers where the tee boxes are positioned. The course length from the yellow tee markers will also be measured on all the courses and new scorecards will be available showing yardages from both white and yellow tee markers. The stroke indices will remain the same whether playing from the yellow or white markers.
At the start of each course golfers will be advised which tees are best suited to their ability, but on the Old Course, the white tees will only be available to players with a handicap of 9 or less, other than in club medals.
"This is a trial and its impact, particularly on the speed of play, will be monitored by the Links Management Committee throughout the season," said Gordon Moir, Links Superintendent. "It is increasingly common for golfers to be provided with a choice of which tee markers to play from and we hope that this will improve golfers' enjoyment. We also hope that it will spread the wear more evenly both on the tees and landing areas, helping to maintain the condition of the courses."