The 5 ways to obtain a tee time are
- Advance Reservations
- The Ballot
- Single Golfer
- Old Course Experience
- Golf Tour Operator
1. Advance Reservations
For the 2015 season, the advance reservation process will change to align with the Old Course Ballot, which uses a draw to determine winners.
Advance reservations will be accepted beginning at 1000 BST on Wednesday, August 27, for a 20-day period ending at 1400 BST on Monday, September 15. To assign tee times, a ballot will be drawn.
Since tee times will now be assigned at random rather than according to first come, first served, the change is intended to relieve the pressure of having to apply as soon as possible after 1400 BST.
On the St Andrews Links website, which will be accessible by August 27th, go to the Ballot page to submit an application. The website offers helpful instructions and information for filling out the form.
2. Daily Ballot
Nearly half of the remaining tee times at the St. Andrews Old Course are given to the daily ballot after the advance reservations have been distributed.
As a result, golfers who were unable to make reservations in advance for tee times on the St. Andrews Old Course can now take advantage of this opportunity.
In order to be eligible for the Daily Ballot draw, which takes place 48 hours before the scheduled start of play, applicants must call in their names, home clubs, and handicap information or appear in person before 2 p.m. at the starters box at the Old Course St. Andrews or one of the Clubhouses.
Important points to remember if you are entering the Ballot
- There must be at least 2 players, single players cannot enter the Ballot
- Names, home club and handicaps are required
- Maximum handicaps are 24 for men and 36 for women
You may enter the Ballot
- In person at the Starters Box at the Old Course
- One of the Clubhouses
- By telephoning +44 (0)1334 466666
All 3 options must be completed prior to 1400hrs 2 days before date of play
- No Friday Ballot as the Old Course is closed on a Sunday
- Golfers who are successful in the Ballot must present a current official handicap card, record or certificate to the starter prior to play and a letter of introduction from a club professional is not acceptable
Single Golfer
When a single golfer visits the Old Course Starters Box on the day they want to play, the Starter will make an effort to place them with groups that are less than a fourball that day.
Guaranteed Premium Tee Times
The Old Course Experience guarantees premium tee times at the St. Andrews Old Course, but these are pricey and require a minimum of three days in St. Andrews.
Golf Tour Operators/ Local Hotels
The Old Course has guaranteed tee times available through a few travel agencies and neighborhood hotels. These tee times are scarce, are quickly sold out, and come with a premium, the size of which varies. This approach includes an additional St. Andrews golf course.
Further information on playing golf in Scotland, The Home of Golf can be found at http://www.meridiangolftours.com/