Tee Time at Botanic Garden

Published On Fri 29 Jun 2018 by Jonathan Watson

The University of Dundee is hosting a new kind of course that could lead green-fingered golf fans to a different kind of Masters.

As the world’s top golfers arrive in Scotland ahead of the Open Championship at Carnoustie next month, staff at the University’s Botanic Garden are already getting into the swing of things as they prepare to open their very own putting green.

The six-hole layout will open to the public on Monday 2 July, giving visitors the chance to ensure their short game skills can match those competing over the Angus links.

Bob Sutherland, Acting Garden Manager and designer of the course, said he believes players will find the family friendly layout above par.

“Everybody here is excited about The Open at Carnoustie and creating a miniature course is a great way to celebrate that while bringing something a bit different to the Botanic Garden,” he said.

“Golf courses are often built among beautiful surroundings and ours is no exception. I’m sure our visitors will love it, especially with the school holidays about to start.”

Taking a leaf out of the book of Georgia’s Augusta National Golf Club, home of the legendary Masters Tournament, each of the six holes are named after landmarks or species of trees or plants found within the grounds.

And while the game’s top professionals steel themselves to take on Carnoustie, Bob and the team are hopeful that some famous faces may wish to brush up on their putting skills at their newest attraction.

“We’ve had great support from Carnoustie Golf Links to help the team here get our greens in the best possible condition,” added Bob.

 “You never know, if Tiger Woods or Rory McIlroy are struggling at The Open then this might be the next best place for them to work on their putting.”

Entrance to the gardens is priced £3.90 for adults and £2.90 for senior citizens, with entry for under 18’s free throughout the summer. Use of the putting green is free and equipment can be provided.

The opening of the green coincides with the Botanic Garden’s extended opening hours over the summer, thanks to the support of the Friends of the Garden group. It will now close at 8.30pm every day with the exception of Friday, when it will continue to close at 4.30pm.

After their round, visitors will be able to visit the garden’s coffee shop, where they can enjoy snacks from a slice of cake to a sand wedge, washed down with a cup of tee.

For media enquiries contact:
Jonathan Watson
Media Relations Officer
University of Dundee
Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4HN
Tel: +44 (0)1382 381489
Email: j.s.watson@dundee.ac.uk