IRVINE’S Dundonald Links will host the prestigious Scottish Open for the first time in 2017.

The competition is one of the richest in golf’s European Tour and the decision to host it at Dundonald follows on from the success of the Ladies Scottish Open last summer where thousands lined the greens.

And it is hoped even more fans from across the world will turn out to potentially see superstars such as Rory McIlroy, Phil Mickelson and last year’s winner Rickie Fowler on the course.

The course is undergoing major renovation works in preparation for hosting the top event which has been previously won by top stars including Lee Westwood (1998), Colin Montgomerie (1999), Graeme McDowell (2008) and Martin Kaymer (2009).

The 2017 event will be the first on the west coast of Scotland since Loch Lomond hosted the 2010 tournament.

Since being acquired by Loch Lomond Golf Club in February 2003, Dundonald Links has played host to numerous tournaments.

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They include the European Tour Qualifying School First Stage, a qualifier for the Senior Open Championship and, most recently, Ladies Scottish Open, which also returns to Dundonald Links this year.

After hosting the Ladies event - which featured world number one Lydia Ko and Solheim Cup player Suzann Pettersen - the club’s owners devised plans for a structural overhaul.

The proposals included the construction of a new clubhouse, scheduled for completion at the end of the year.

Bill Donald, General Manager of Loch Lomond Golf Club and Dundonald Links, said: “The course changes will enhance what was already a fantastic spectator experience, with natural amphitheatres surrounding many of the holes.

“Crowds of ten thousand turned up for the Ladies Scottish Open last year, and we’re hoping for more of the same this year.

“So we’ll be more than ready by the time the Scottish Open comes around.”

Irvine Times:

Central Ayrshire MP Philippa Whitford said: “I am delighted that the Scottish Open will be coming to Dundonald Links next year. Not only is it great news for golf in North Ayrshire, with some of the world’s finest golfers coming to test themselves on a links course in the run up to the British Open the following week, it will be a huge boost to the local economy.

 “I was fortunate to attend the Ladies Scottish Open at the Dundonald Links last summer and know what a beautiful course it is with Arran providing a stunning backdrop. There were great crowds in attendance that day and the whole event was a great success.”

Councillor Willie Gibson, Leader of North Ayrshire Council, added: “This part of Scotland is fortunate to have so many championship golf courses capable of staging top-class events, including the Ladies Scottish Open.

“The council, through our ‘Team North Ayrshire’ approach, has worked with our partners to bring this prestigious event here, and we look forward to delivering a first-class tournament for everyone to enjoy.”