The Major season is over in July which those of a certain vintage feels stange. The PGA Championship used to take place in August and this seemed to reflect better the golfing season in the Northern Hemisphere. Alas, economics and the Fed Ex play offs have taken care of this for the immediate future.

Royal Portrush once again shone as the stage for this years Open Championship. Enthusiastic and knowledgeable crowds crammed the fairways to support their golfing heroes. Shane put on a brave ‘defense’ of his 2019 victory at this venue, finishing with a final round of 66 to finish T40. Rory gave it everything and with rounds of 70,69,66,69 but had to settle for a T7 finish.

The new Champion Golfer of the year is Scottie Scheffler. Frankly, it never looked like anything else following his 64 on Friday. I am reminded of the dominance of Tiger Woods 25 years ago in particular Scottie’s ability to find the right part of the green for his approach and his ability to hole key momentum putts throughout the round.

I was delighted to see Rickie Fowler finishing strong with a 66 for T14. Rickie has the game for links golf and if this signals a return to form watch out for him in Royal Birkdale in 2026.

Rumour has it that Portmarnock could be the next venue to host the Open on the island of Ireland. If so, it would confirm to me the R&A’s desire to host their championships at the very best links courses on the British Isles.