AYRSHIRE'S economy could be set for a massive boost when some of the world's top golfers tee-off later this month.
Golfing greats including the legendary Tom Watson are soon to battle it out at the Senior Open Championship, due to be held at Royal Troon from July 24 – 27.
And their appearance could see the county cashing in as it did two years ago when the eve
nt was held along the coast at Turnberry.
The return of the money-spinning tournament was this week hailed as a major coup for the region and further recognition of its excellent golfing credentials.
South Ayrshire Provost Winifred Sloan said: "As a keen golfer, I am fully aware of the tremendous impact the sport has in terms of the economic benefits an event such as the Senior Open Championship can provide. It allows added opportunities to promote the area. Tourism is our business and we have an enviable reputation for superb golf.
"With three Open venues and 18 public and private courses across South Ayrshire, the number of golfing visitors is steadily increasing.
"Ayrshire is also famous for spawning two of golf's biggest talents in Colin Montgomerie and Sam Torrance, who honed their skills on local golf courses before going on to enjoy international success."
The 2008 line-up includes some of golf's biggest names from the last 50 years, competing for a grand prize of US $320,000.
Icons Sandy Lyle, Ian Woosnam, Bernhard Langer and Jay Haas, winner of last month's US Senior PGA Championship, are set to go head-to-head.
Last year's winner Tom Watson is chasing a unique third title. If he retains the trophy, the 58-year-old American will have won the Senior on three of the courses where he also lifted the Open, following victories at Turnberry and Muirfield.
In 1982 at Royal Troon, Watson claimed his fourth Claret Jug after clawing back Nick Price's three-shot lead with six holes to play in a thrilling finale.
He said: "I started as strong favourite having just won the US Open but after two rounds I was seven shots behind the leader.
"However, on the last day I shot a steady round of 70, which was good enough to edge out Nick Price and Peter Oosterhuis by a single shot."
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