Younge to officiate at Open Championship

Bruce Younge, the South African Golf Association’s (SAGA) Executive Director, has been invited by the R & A to officiate at the 137th Open Championship which starts on Thursday, 17th July 2008, at Royal Birkdale, just outside the town of Southport in Lancashire on the west coast of England.

“It is really an experience of a life time,” is how 57 year old Bruce Younge summed up his invitation. “Last year was the first year I received an invitation. I officiated on each of the four championship rounds. Some of the players I was lucky to officiate for were Ernie Els, Zach Johnson (US) and Angel Cabrera (Argentina). No matter what groups I am given this year, just being part of this magnificent event is in itself an unforgettable experience,” said Younge.

“We are grateful to the R&A for the recognition granted to Bruce through this invitation,” said Neale Kunhardt, President of the SAGA. “He is not only one of the most experienced rules officials in South Africa but also one of the most knowledgeable,” concluded Kunhardt.

The R & A, formerly known as the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, is golf’s world rules and development body and organiser of the Open Championship.