The Alfred Dunhill Links Foundation
Another rare feature of the Dunhill is the lack of appearance fees for the professionals. As such, maximum funds flow to the primary charities. As the amounts raised rose, a Foundation was created in 2011 to oversee the management and distribution of these funds, with a board including Mr Rupert, tournament management, several past Captains of the R&A and others. From the beginning, these targeted amateur golf in Scotland and South Africa, and the town of St Andrews itself, including the University. (See Sidebar)
To get an idea of the impact the tournament and the Foundation grants have, we met with several beneficiaries and representatives of the charities involved.
We spoke to young Scottish professionals Connor Syme and Bradley Neil, who both played the Dunhill as amateurs and benefitted from the Scottish Golf programs funded by the event, including spending time in South Africa and playing in events there.
For Syme, the Dunhill in 2017 was his second start as a pro and a six-under round on the Sunday was a highlight. “I’m based in Drumoig, so this is ‘playing at home’ for me!”. He was also paired with a member of Augusta on that memorable day, so perhaps a round there is in his future?
After playing in the Dunhill in 2013, Bradley Neil won the British Amateur the following year. This meant he qualified for three majors (Open, Masters, U.S. Open) and a stay in the legendary “Crow’s Nest” in Augusta. No prizes for guessing his favourite course!
