April’s Father & Son Tournament was another memorable week that perfectly captured what this event is all about.
Each year, we’re reminded that this trip is about far more than golf scores or leaderboards. At its heart, it’s about quality time together - fathers and sons sharing experiences, conversations, competition, and unforgettable moments both on and off the course.
This year’s tournament delivered plenty of those moments.
From the moment guests arrived in St Andrews, there was a fantastic atmosphere throughout the group – emotions were high, aa our guests readied themselves for the days ahead. First-time guests were welcomed with reception drinks, while returning guests attended a special ‘Clan Dinner’ at Rusacks, where stories from previous years and familiar friendships reinforced the strong sense of community that has become such an important part of the event.
That connection is what makes this trip so special.
A week of Championship golf
Our guests were fortunate to enjoy sunshine throughout much of the week, although Scotland still provided its trademark challenge with cold coastal winds and the occasional torrential downpour – a very typical April in St Andrews!
The week began at Dumbarnie Links for the warm-up round, with the course presented in exceptional condition, despite only recently reopening for the season.
Competitive play officially began on the Jubilee Course under glorious conditions, creating a brilliant opening day for the tournament. Following the round, guests enjoyed one of the more light-hearted traditions of the week - kilt fittings - which always adds to the occasion and sense of Scottish heritage surrounding the event.
Next came Carnoustie.
True to reputation, ‘Carnasty’ proved every bit the challenge expected. Strong winds and punishing rough tested every player, turning even good rounds into battles of patience and resilience. Yet that challenge is exactly what makes the experience so memorable.
Kingsbarns followed and provided a stunning contrast; despite remaining cold and windy, the sunshine and incredible coastal views reminded everyone why it is regarded as one of the world’s great modern links courses. It’s the kind of place that makes players stop and simply take in their surroundings, even during competitive play.
The Old Course finale
As always, the week built towards the ultimate finale: the Old Course at St Andrews.
The mecca. The home. The ultimate round of golf.
There is something uniquely special about standing on that first tee. Even the most experienced golfers pause for a moment to take it all in. Being announced onto the tee and hitting that opening shot is an experience that never loses its significance.
The round itself was filled with pressure, laughter, emotion, and countless memorable moments that will stay with guests long after the final putt.
That evening, a lone piper led the group through the streets of St Andrews to the R&A steps for photographs - one of the most iconic traditions of the week and a moment that always feels incredibly special for everyone involved. The celebrations then continued at the university for the grand farewell dinner and awards evening.
Congratulations once again go to Team Cleary, who secured their third tournament title with another outstanding performance across the week.
Why it matters
Weeks like this are the reason we do what we do.
While world-class golf courses and exceptional hospitality are a huge part of the experience, the moments that matter most are often the simplest ones - conversations over dinner, shared laughs after a difficult round, or seeing a father and son walk together onto the Old Course for the first time.
Those are the memories people take home with them.
Being able to help create those moments is something we never take for granted, and after another incredible week, we are already looking forward to welcoming everyone back in 2027! Will you be there?
