This weekend, more than 500 young golfers from 55 different countries will gather on the Golf Coast of Scotland to take part in the U.S. Kids Golf 15th annual European Championship. This esteemed junior golfing event will occur at seven of East Lothian’s top golf courses, engaging in five days of competitive play.
The championship will highlight golfers ranging in age from five to 18, demonstrating their abilities in 16 different age groups. The event is more than just a competition, as it will begin with a Parent/Child event at Winterfield Golf Club, followed by the main three-day championship at five different courses.
An especially exciting addition to this year’s championship is the Van Horn Cup, a highly respected event for qualifying boys and girls aged 11-14, which will be held at North Berwick Golf Club. This marks the first time that the Van Horn Cup will be hosted at this location, adding a new level of prestige to the championship.
The U.S. Kids Golf events are well-known for nurturing some of the world’s top golfing talents, with past participants including notable names such as Scottie Scheffler, Jordan Spieth, Brooks Koepka, and Patrick Reed. This year’s competition is expected to be an enthralling display of emerging talent from across the globe.
With players from 55 countries, including a strong representation from Great Britain, the United States, France, and India, the championship will be a true celebration of international youth golf. Local interest is particularly high this year, with 20 Scottish golfers, including up-and-coming talents like Freddie Bradley from Gullane and Stella Walters from Aberlady, participating in the championship.
Returning champions from various countries are also keen to defend their titles, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event. The championship will take place at Craigielaw Golf Club, Glen Golf Club, Longniddry Golf Club, Royal Musselburgh Golf Club, The Musselburgh Golf Club, and North Berwick Golf Club—all renowned for their historic and picturesque settings.
The U.S. Kids Golf Foundation, established in 1996, aims to promote the lifelong game of golf among children while encouraging family interaction. Alongside the European Championship, the Foundation hosts 18 international championships, including events in India, Venice, and Ireland. Since its establishment, the foundation has expanded to organize over 2200 events annually, culminating in the prestigious World Championship at Pinehurst.
This year’s championship promises to be an exhilarating and unforgettable event, showcasing the talent and spirit of young golfers from around the world. It will undoubtedly be an incredible demonstration of sportsmanship, skill, and camaraderie within the serene and historic landscapes of Scotland’s Golf Coast.