Every golfer dreams of one day playing with their golf idol. An opportunity to play alongside the professionals they’ve watched from afar while they are at the peak of their game. A unique adventure awaits players of the Gleneagles International Pro-Am at the crowning jewel of Scottish golf. Gleneagles has a legacy of celebrating the finest players by putting their golfing prowess to the test as they compete for glory. Staged at the Mecca of UK golf hotels, players from as far as Dubai and the United States descend on the homeland of golf for a chance to experience one of its most exciting competitions. As the palpable sense of anticipation builds every year, there is little wonder why Gleneagles is known as ‘The Glorious Playground’.

Since its inaugural year in 2016, the Gleneagles International Pro-Am has become one of the most sought-after golf tournaments in the UK. Located at one of the finest Scottish golf resorts and spa destinations, a culmination of luxury play, stay, and dining experiences have spread the event’s vast appeal. Former Scotland footballer and manager, Gordon Strachan, is just one of the famous amateurs challenging for a spot at this spectacular tournament.

First and foremost, the main attraction of the Gleneagles International Pro-Am is the golf tournament itself. Three amateur golfers accompany a professional on each day of the event, attempting to shoot the lowest score. This four-day event provides access to Gleneagles’ three championship golf courses, with an additional practice round on the course of their choice. Golf at Gleneagles International Pro-Am opens the door to a unique opportunity for amateurs to test their game on these spectacular courses against some phenomenal sporting champions.

If Heaven is as good as this, I sure hope they have some tee times left. – LEE TREVINO

The magnetism of golf at Gleneagles to a world-wide audience is aligned with its prestigious origins. Both The King’s Course and The Queen’s Course opened in 1919 having been designed by James Braid, a five-time Open Championship winner. The decision to design these courses through the eyes of a Hall of Fame golfer has guaranteed an everlasting test for those eager enough to play them. This player-orientated foundation has now challenged amateurs and crowned champions for over a century.

More recently, The PGA Centenary course opened in 1993, designed by Jack Nicklaus. As a player who is undeniably on the Mount Rushmore of golfers, Nicklaus has continued the legacy of golf at Gleneagles producing excellent Scottish golf courses, created by the best competitors to grace the game.

Each player of the Gleneagles International Pro-Am has the incredible opportunity to play each of the Gleneagles courses. Like siblings, each of the three championship courses have similar traits, but are unique in their own special way. Some of the most famous golf tournaments in the UK have been captured on the newest of the three courses, The PGA Centenary. It’s undeniable appeal is demonstrated by being the only course in Europe to host both the Ryder Cup and the Solheim Cup.

However, The King’s Course and The Queen’s course can hold their own against the appeal of The PGA Centenary. The latter of these older courses is known for having a particularly challenging first six holes. This style contradicts the teachings of golf architect, Donald Ross, who wanted his courses to start like a ‘gentle handshake’, as opposed to a baptism of fire. Finally, The King’s course holds a special place with guests who golf at Gleneagles. Each hole has a unique Scottish name and perhaps the sixth hole best captures its overall experience: “Blink Bonnie”, meaning a beautiful view.

As each day of the event comes to a close, players retreat to their rooms within the luxurious Gleneagles resort. Built in 1924, the hotel has maintained an immaculate art-deco style from the era it was constructed. Walking down the grand hallways, the historical resonance is reiterated on every turn.

These historical links are expertly intertwined with a modern vibrancy within the guest rooms. Spacious and stunning, the rooms are a perfect reflection of the grandeur of the hotel. The stunning views circulating the resort are beautifully accessed through large bedroom windows. Not many UK golf hotels have the same luxury to effortlessly showcase the vast countryside which awaits each and every guest. This design also implicitly acts as a reminder to tournament players of their coming adventures on the course.

As self-complementary as ‘The Glorious Playground’ appears, Gleneagles is not only one of the finest golf resorts and spa locations in Scotland, it also facilitates an incredible array of activities. Non-playing guests can boast about an incredible experience of their own. Shooting, horse-riding, falconry, fishing, and off-roading are some of the extraordinary activities available around the Gleneagles grounds. Alternatively, if a less adventurous experience is desired, The Spa also offers the perfect detox to unwind before getting ready for a celebration of local food.

In the evening, guests can dine at Andrew Fairlie, the only restaurant in Scotland to hold two Michelin Stars. The dining experience provides a unique taste of paradise by serving some of Scotland’s famous seafood, including Fairlie’s signature dish, home-smoked Scottish lobster. This exceptional culinary display, the Welcome Dinner, and the Tournament Prize Dinner ensure guests return to their rooms in little doubt that they have entered a Scottish Eden, seemingly untouched by the sin of mediocracy.

There are invariable commonalities to most Scottish golf courses. To name a few, there are eighteen holes, lovely scenery, and a sense of achievement walking off the 18^th. However, players at the Gleneagles International Pro-Am are part of the fortunate few to reach a state of enlightenment by experiencing a place which stretches far beyond these commonalities. This tournament celebrating golf at Gleneagles elevates a simple game into an unforgettable golfing experience which continues to attract players from around the world.