In an effort to “refine the strategic challenge for elite players”, the R&A announced a series of changes to the Old Course on Tuesday ahead of the 2027 Open at St Andrews.
Six holes will be extended and several bunkers will be moved or expanded, representing the most significant improvements to the old links since 2015. The changes follow an extensive review process following the 2022 Open, in which Cam Smith finished at 20-under 268, a record score for the Old Course that also matched the lowest score in any major.
According to the R&A:
• Six holes will be extended (Nos. 5, 6, 7, 10, 11 and 16), increasing the championship distance by 132 yards for a total of 7,445 yards;
• The new championship tees add 35 yards to No. 6; 17 meters to No. 6; 22 yards to No. 7 and 29 yards to No. 10. Expansion of the tee box at Nos. 11 and 16 will add 21 and 10 yards in length, respectively;
• The 16e hole will see the most significant adjustment, with the restoration of the playing area to the left of the famous Principal’s Nose and Deacon Sime bunkers, as well as two additional bunkers increasing the risk to the left side;
• Bunkers on the right side of the second hole are moved further up the fairway and to the left. New bunkers will also be added at Nos. 6, 9 and 10 which should come into play more for the elite players.
“Every generation has played a part in shaping the Old Course, and this latest program continues that long tradition,” said Neil Coulson, CEO of the St Andrews Links Trust. “The work will restore features that have subtly changed over time and refine others to maintain the unique character of the course.”
Work is expected to start next week.
#extended #renovated #ahead #Open