Dunhill blown off course

Alfred Dunhill Links Championship: Hit by high winds

I'm just looking at the ninth hole just now and with the way that wind is blowing you wouldn't be able to get your ball near that green in three shots, never mind trying to putt on it

Rory McIlory
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The third round of the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship has had to be postponed due to gale-force winds.

Gusts were predicted to reach 70mph at St Andrews, Carnoustie and Kingsbarns, making all three courses unplayable.

With Saturday lost to the weather, tournament organisers have confirmed that the third round will take place on Sunday with the final round then on Monday.

The event sees 168 pro-celebrity teams taking part with the cut coming after 54 holes, leaving the leading 60 professionals and top 20 teams playing on the final day at St Andrews.

Rory McIlroy, Michael Hoey and Richie Ramsay were tied for the lead at the halfway stage on 11 under par.

No arguments

"You can't argue with the decision," McIlroy said. "I think everyone can see that, especially here at Kingsbarns.

"I'm just looking at the ninth hole just now and with the way that wind is blowing you wouldn't be able to get your ball near that green in three shots, never mind trying to putt on it.

"I think the forecast for the next two days is pretty good, so if we have to wait till Monday to finish then we have to wait."

Ramsay, who was also due to play his third round at Kingsbarns, agreed with his co-leader, adding: "I think the right decision has been made.

"You look at some of the exposed greens on these courses and the balls are just blowing off in all directions, so you couldn't play in that wind.

"I am struggling to keep my balance standing here at the moment. Plus if you put everyone out there and had to bring them on and off the course throughout the day it would be pretty tough to co-ordinate that with three courses."