St Andrews set to pack in the crowds for The Open
Monday 20 April 2015 17:44, UK
St Andrews will boast the largest arena in the history of The Open when the championship is played over the famous Old Course in July.
Almost 10,000 spectators will be able to watch from seats on the first, 17th and 18th holes, with a two-tiered grandstand created behind the 18th green for the first time and an L-shaped arena behind the 17th green, as well as the traditional seats to the right of the first.
The grandstand behind the iconic Road Hole will have a capacity of more than 4,000, with a total of 21,000 seats around the entire course.
Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, executive director of championships at the R&A, said: "There is always an incredible atmosphere at The Open and particularly when it is held in St Andrews.
“We want to make sure as many spectators as possible can experience that unique atmosphere and enjoy wonderful views of the play on the opening and closing holes at St Andrews.
"The new arena will provide a fantastic setting for the climax of the Championship at the 72nd hole and will be the ideal place for spectators to greet the new champion golfer of the year."
Several cameras have been implanted into bunkers on the course, with another "turf camera" giving views of the R&A clubhouse from in front of the first tee.
The R&A has also invested £150,000 in subsidising food and drink prices, meaning the price of fish and chips, for example, is down from £10.50 to £8.50.
The 144th Open will be played at St Andrews from July 16-19.
