The reopening of the Ailsa Course at Trump Turnberry, owned by US President Donald Trump, has been delayed until June after serious damage caused by a pro-Palestine group. The course was scheduled to reopen on 1 May following planned renovations, but vandalism in early March has forced a postponement.
The clubhouse was daubed with graffiti and red paint on 8 March, while greens and approaching turf were ripped up. The Ailsa Course, which has hosted the Open Championship four times, has been closed since October for renovation of the 7th and 8th holes.
Nic Oldham, general manager of Trump Turnberry, said in a statement: 'The reopening of the Ailsa Course has been delayed due to recent vandalism. While the redesigned holes are ready for play and look spectacular, we now need to restore other areas of the courses to provide the premium playing conditions our members and guests expect.'
The economic impact is likely to be significant, with tee times for later in the summer listed at £1,000 per head for non-residents. Neighbouring Ayrshire courses are already experiencing a busy period, which will affect golf tourism.
Trump labelled the perpetrators as 'terrorists' and called for harsh treatment under Scottish law. A 33-year-old man, Kieran Robson, has been charged with malicious mischief and appeared at Ayr Sheriff Court on Monday, making no plea and being released on bail. A 75-year-old man and a 66-year-old woman were also arrested and released pending further inquiries.
Trump purchased Turnberry in 2014 and has sought to bring the Open back to the course, which last hosted the major in 2009. However, the R&A, the tournament organisers, have resisted, and there is no indication of a change in stance under new chief executive Mark Darbon.
