Something different is stirring up interest in new Tartan Tour event

The event at Clydebank & District Golf Club on 27 July will see a PGA professional team up with one person as opposed to it being a team of four players.

“I had wanted Clydebank & District to get back on the PGA in Scotland rota somehow and at first thought about a senior event, then perhaps a senior member guest but felt that may restrict the field,” said the club’s PGA professional, Gary McFarlane.

That led to a discussion with Mark McPherson, the PGA in Scotland’s tournament director, and the result is a shotgun event that will involve a PGA member joining forces with his or her guest.

“The format allows a PGA pro to bring along someone who maybe hasn’t competed in this type of event before or maybe someone who has won a club competition or even just a mate,” added McFarlane. “I’m going to run a qualifier at my club to see who gets the short straw to play with me (laughing).

Players already signing up

“I’m hoping to get along some of the PGA professionals who started their playing careers at Clydebank or even have been pro here and I’ve already got guys like Chris MacLean, John Henry and Ricky Bowman all signed up.

“I hope to run something on the day for a local charity as well, so I’m really looking forward to it and I’d like to thank my members of the club for giving up the tee times on the day.”

David Longmuir, the PGA in Scotland’s regional manager, is delighted to see something a bit different on this year’s Arnold Clark-sponsored schedule.

“This came about as a result of feedback from some members who felt that a member plus one guest format would be a great thing to try,” said Longmuir. “It means members can invite a friend, sponsor, club member or client to play with them in a better-ball format, with an individual pro competition as well.

‘It’s the beauty of our sport’

“A sociable day with a bit of competitive golf thrown in. A chance for our members to play with a good customer or a sponsor or a club member who would relish the chance to play with his favourite professional.

“It's the beauty of our sport where professionals can team up with amateurs and play as a team or a partnership. We thought we would try it out and see what kind of interest we get. We are indebted to Gary and Clydebank & District for their support with this.”