US KIDS GOLF EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP
Last week (30th May to 2nd June 2023) saw the arrival of the US Kids Golf European Championship to East Lothian. This was the 14th European Championship, with over 500 5 to 18-year-olds from more than 50 countries teeing it up at Craigielaw, the Glen, Musselburgh, Royal Musselburgh, and Longniddry. Following an opening ceremony at Gosford House, the golfers headed onto the course for three days of competition.
Over 1800 events
The US Kids Golf Foundation began in 1996 with the sole aim to get more children playing golf. Their mission is “to help kids have fun learning the lifelong game of golf and encourage family interaction that builds lasting memories. There are now 1800 events worldwide, including 10 International Championships and the World Championship at Pinehurst.
Founded by Dan Van Horn, the Foundation not only organises tournaments, but also offers golf coach certification, owns a golf academy, helps kids find a coach, provides online courses, advises parents on kit to buy, sells equipment specifically designed for children and creates insightful podcasts.
The Netflix ‘Short Game’ movie charts the journey of eight golfers heading to the US Kids Golf World Championship at Pinehurst in 2014. Produced by Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel, it’s a fascinating look at the competitive world of seven and eight year old golfers.
Scotland’s Golf Coast has become the home of the European Championship thanks to our warm welcome, the variety of golf course and our accommodation selection. The proximity to Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital helps with easy access from the international airport, together with sightseeing opportunities for the children and their families. The competitors are assured of a great night’s sleep and a heart breakfast before heading out onto the course.
Welcoming back in 2024
It was a pleasure to welcome US Kids Golf back to Scotland’s Golf Coast. This week’s atmosphere is always a special one in East Lothian. To see so many budding golf champions test themselves on Scotland’s Golf Coast is as rewarding as welcoming the world’s best to our championship courses. Results can be found in the link. Winners from the UAE, Thailand, Denmark and the UK demonstrate the global nature of the event. We look forward to seeing everyone in 2024.
