RAIN STOPS PLAY FOR OPEN PAST CHAMPIONS
Published: 14th Jul 2010
 HOPES that, despite the weather forecasters dire predictions coming true, today's Past Champions Challenge on the eve of the 150th Open in St Andrews would go ahead were dashed.
The event fell foul of the heavy rain and high winds battering St Andrews as The R&A decided to cancel. However Chief Executive Peter Dawson is insisting the weather won't alter the schedule for the Open itself which is due to start tomorrow.
The conditions on the Old Course this afternoon left tournament organisers with no other choice but to abandon the event, which was to be played in celebration of the 150th anniversary of golf’s oldest Major.
Twenty six Champions, playing in teams of three or four, were due to play four holes of the Old Course, the first, second, 17th and 18th, with the winning team receiving £50,000 to donate to a charity of their choice.
Earlier Dawson said he had never seen the Old Course in better shape.
Despite the grim conditions outside it was clear everyone was in bullish form following last night's successful dinner with the past champions.
Said Dawson: “It was a great occasion, the 150th anniversary of the championship, and we were able to play a message from Seve to the past champions on screens in my office, and were very sorry that he hasn't been able to attend. We wish him well.
“The forecast for the championship is changeable, blustery, showery conditions, pretty good for links golf. I think we're pleased with getting the winds from a number of different directions. One thing I've noticed in the last few days is that forecasts are not always right, so we'll just have to wait and see.”
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