The Old Course Hotel, St Andrews, has recently unveiled an exciting collaboration with professional golfer Gemma Dryburgh. This partnership came at a pivotal time, coinciding with Gemma’s significant impact on Europe’s retention of the Solheim Cup just days later.
In a noteworthy development this August, the Old Course Hotel, St Andrews, announced their endorsement of Gemma Dryburgh as she rose to the top 50 in the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings. The esteemed hotel, renowned for its stunning view of the Old Course where the AIG Women’s Open will be held in 2024, aims to inspire the next generation of golfing talent in Scotland through this remarkable partnership.
Gemma Dryburgh’s remarkable accomplishments include her triumph at the Japan Classic towards the end of 2022, positioning her as only the fourth Scottish golfer to win on the LPGA Tour. Throughout 2023, the five-time champion maintained an exceptional performance and achieved a top-ten finish in a Major championship for the first time at the Amundi Evian Championship in July. With the support of the Old Course Hotel, she also secured the Jock MacVicar award for being the top-ranked Scot at the Freed Group Women’s Scottish Open in August. To end the year, she finished tied sixth at the Toto Japan Classic with an impressive 19-under-par for the tournament, nearly defending her title.
Phyllis Wilkie, the general manager at Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort and Spa, expressed their enthusiasm at having Gemma as their brand ambassador, recognizing her valuable contribution to the sport. Gemma herself spoke of her honour in being sponsored by the hotel, highlighting her personal connections to St Andrews and the Old Course and expressing her delight at having their support at this pivotal stage of her career.
As part of the partnership, Old Course Hotel’s logo will be prominently featured on the front of Gemma’s hat until the end of 2024. Plans are also in progress for the hotel to collaborate with Gemma in hosting an invitational event at The Duke’s Course before the Women’s Open in 2024, providing junior and amateur golfers with the opportunity to spend the day with Gemma and gain insight into what it takes to excel in the sport.
Shortly after finalizing the partnership with the Old Course Hotel, Gemma was called upon to participate in the 2023 Solheim Cup. During the event, she delivered a remarkable performance by sinking a 20-yard putt and securing a crucial half point for Europe, ultimately contributing to their retention of the trophy.
In a light-hearted moment before the tournament, Gemma shared her talent for playing the guitar and her fondness for performing Paul McCartney’s “Blackbird”. This charming detail adds a personal touch to her impressive professional accomplishments.
This exciting collaboration between the Old Course Hotel, St Andrews, and Gemma Dryburgh heralds an inspiring partnership in the world of golf, with the potential to make a lasting impact in the sport. While Gemma’s journey continues to unfold, her remarkable achievements and endearing personal traits are sure to captivate golf enthusiasts around the world.