Carnoustie Golf Links

We have put together the following FAQs to help you understand your 2022/23 Season Ticket options.

If your query has not been answered below, please email: [email protected]

General

Why has a 3-Course ticket increased in price?

It is important that Season Ticket rates are reviewed from time to time. Our review has enabled us to provide a set of options that we believe presents excellent value for money and much greater opportunities and access. The 3-Course Ticket price also represents excellent value when compared to other golf facilities in the region.

What is the Season Ticket Holder (STH) Framework review?

For those who are not familiar with this, you may recall that we introduced this review to you last year and have since engaged with you on a number of related topics either through surveys or engagement groups. The review that is taking place looks at all aspects of how STH access is facilitated and managed at Carnoustie Golf Links, ensuring that it is fit for purpose, drives inclusivity, and is sustainable and fair for all.

Throughout the review, many interesting points and suggestions have been brought forward by STH’s, both individually and collectively, and we hope to introduce more of these in due course with the aim of improving access and availability for local golfers.

We will continue to liaise with, and listen to, the feedback from all STH’s on the topics raised. We hope that this review, as well as the introduction of the ‘3-ball minimum’ arrangement, shows our intention to take account of the wishes of our STH’s in matters of concern.

Age Related Questions

Why has there been the removal of the 65+ discount and why is the discounted rate up to the age of 28?

The removal of the 65+ discount is part of a wider realignment of the STH framework that will ensure we do all we can to best support the needs of all our STH’s. This follows on from our endeavour to meet one of our charitable objectives – increasing participation. To protect, grow and develop golf, the main area of concern identified was ‘drop-out’ of golfers that fall within the under 28 age category.

Offering a staggered increase model of our Season Ticket pricing is a means of mitigating cost as a reason for dropping-out of golf. This is one way in which we are seeking to find a long-term strategy to protect the future of the sport we all want to see prosper and grow for generations to come.

We would stress that 1-Course and 2-Course Tickets represent extremely good value and the ability to upgrade (with guests) to the Championship Course.

I now fall within one of the discounted age brackets, what do I need to do?

We will automatically change all STH’s who fall within these categories to the new rate. That said, if you are unsure that your details are up to date, please send a photograph of your driver’s licence or passport to [email protected] and we can ensure we have the correct information. This can also be done by speaking to a member of the team within Links House.

What is the cut-off date for age for each ticket type?

1st January. Season Ticket Holders will move from one age bracket up to the next age bracket if they are that age prior to the 1st January of that year. For example in 2022 a 27 year old will move to the 28+ ticket rate this season if they reached the age of 28 prior to 1st January 2022.

Ticket Types and Waiting Lists

Does this mean there are no longer waiting lists, and can I choose my ticket type?

One of the main objectives of the reviewed framework is to remove the waiting list over time. Initially, the review will condense the waiting lists significantly and allow more flexibility with accessing the courses. The first phase of the framework, moving all tickets to 7-days, will mean that the waiting list will be significantly shorter than it was previously. After the renewal period we will be in a position to estimate the waiting list time more accurately, and we will update all STH’s on this in due course.

Is there still a maximum number of STH’s who can have a 3-Course 7-Day ticket?

The aim of the review is to make sure we are using the golf courses in the best possible way and increasing participation and access. Carnoustie is a publicly owned golf course. Removing barriers such as the waiting list and providing as many opportunities as possible for people to play is very important.

We will continue to review the new framework as it becomes more established, balancing our participation aims while providing the best possible experience for both existing and new STH’s.

I currently have a 5-Day Ticket (1-Course, 2-Course or 3-Course), what ticket will I now have?

All 5-Day Ticket holders will default to the 7-Day Ticket equivalent.

As previously available, all STH’s can downgrade their ticket at any time. For example, if you are currently a 3-Course 5-Day Ticket holder, you will automatically be offered the 3-Course 7-Day ticket at renewal time. That said, you can also choose to change this to a 1-Course or 2-Course 7-Day ticket if you wish.

A 2-Course 5-Day Ticket holder will be moved to a 2-Course 7-Day Ticket but can decide to move to a 1-Course 7-Day Ticket if they wish.

A 1-Course 5-Day Ticket holder will be moved to a 1-Course 7-Day Ticket.

What is the offering for new Season Ticket Holders?

Currently, 1-Course or 2-Course (7-Day) tickets are available to Carnoustie (DD7 postcode) residents only.

Why is it only available to DD7 residents?

As we enter into a new / modern framework, we wish to focus on existing STH’s while encouraging people local to Carnoustie to get involved.

How many Season Ticket Holders do we have?

We currently have circa.2,500 STH’s, who now all have the ability to play all of our golf courses (with friends and family), which is in line with Carnoustie’s position as a publicly accessible golf course.

You say the waiting lists will be reduced significantly, does this mean that you are increasing the amount of STH’s at Carnoustie?

There will be no change to the criteria for new entrants. The framework review will continually assess and provide information to determine the appropriate number of STH’s who play on the golf courses.

Is this review only to increase revenue due to the pandemic, and will it be reduced again next year?

The review has looked at two fundamental principles; to ensure that we continue to manage a sustainable organisation that can fulfil its charitable objectives, and; to increase participation. The new framework will deliver on both these points. Ticket prices will not be reduced next year.

Will there be more price increases in the coming years? 

The STH review will look to best provide against our charitable objectives. CGLMC Ltd reserves the right to continually review the STH Framework including pricing, ticket types and benefits, to ensure it maximises participation in the game of golf and delivers best value in a sustainable way.

Is there a maximum number of 1-Course and 2-Course Season Tickets available?

The aim of the review is to make sure we are using the golf courses in the best possible way and increasing participation and access. Carnoustie is a publicly owned golf course. Removing barriers such as the waiting list and providing as many opportunities as possible for people to play is very important.

We will continue to review the new framework as it becomes more established, balancing our participation aims while providing the best possible experience for both existing and new STH’s.

I’m on the 3-Course 7-Day waiting list, what happens to me? Can I get a 3-Course Ticket now?

The new framework provides the opportunity to reduce the waiting lists. We will reach out to all Season Ticket Holders individually who are on this waiting list to explain your waiting list position/offering.

Does a 1-Course Ticket allow me to play any one course at a time?

No. A 1-Course Ticket will provide you with access to The Buddon Course.

A 2-Course Ticket will provide access to The Buddon Course and The Burnside Course.

A 3-Course Ticket will provide access to The Buddon Course, The Burnside Course and The Championship Course.

Carnoustie Craws Junior Golf Program

Does this change the Carnoustie Craws criteria with regards to golfers aged <18 moving up to a 3-Course Ticket?

The Golf Development Team have updated the criteria for this, in line with the framework, to ensure that those golfers aged <18 who meet the criteria will still progress to a 3-Course Ticket as they would have previously.

What is the protocol for golfers aged <18 moving into adult tickets and accessing a 3-Course Ticket?

– The golfer aged <18 will have held a 3-course, under 18 season ticket for at least one full season prior to moving into the over 18’s category
– The golfer aged <18 will have maintained an official handicap index of 36.4 or below

Who is eligible for a free Season Ticket?

Firstly, you must be under 18 years old on the 1st January of the year the ticket is issued. So, for example, in 2022, to qualify, you must be under 18 years old on 1st January 2022. Secondly, one of the three following statements must apply to you:

1. I am a Carnoustie resident (DD7 postal code address)
2. I attend one of the six Carnoustie Cluster Schools (Carnoustie High, Woodlands Primary, Burnside Primary, Carlogie Primary, Newbigging Primary, Monikie Primary)
3. I am part of the Carnoustie Craws Coaching Programme (attended/attending coaching sessions in 2021/22)

I am eligible for a free Season Ticket, what ticket type can I get?

Everyone who is under 18 years old and eligible for a free Season Ticket will receive a 2-Course 7-Day Season Ticket.

3-Course 7-Day Tickets are also available, but the handicap index requirements must be met before the 3-Course Ticket can be issued. A handicap index of 36.4 or below is required for anyone under 18 years old to receive a 3-Course Ticket.

I am a Season Ticket Holder who is under 18 years old but none of the three statements to qualify for a free Season Ticket applies to me. Can I pay for my Season Ticket?

Yes. You can choose between a 1-Course or 2-Course Season Ticket or, if you meet the handicap index requirements (36.4 or below) you can choose a 3-Course Ticket.

Why is there a handicap limit on obtaining a 3-Course Ticket and not a handicap limit on 1-Course or 2-Course Season Tickets?

The Championship Course is a very challenging golf course for inexperienced golfers, while the Burnside and Buddon courses, when played from the appropriate length tees, provide younger golfers with a challenge that matches their current ability. Progression is important and our goal is for everyone in the local community to play golf and achieve a handicap index. Achieving this will protect the future of golf in Carnoustie and providing access to The Championship Course as a reward for achieving a golf handicap will encourage even more young players to strive for improvement.

I am a Season Ticket Holder who is under 18 years old but none of the three statements to qualify for a free Season Ticket applies to me. I would like to get involved in The Carnoustie Craws Coaching Programme to enable me to qualify for a free Season Ticket, how do I do this?

The Carnoustie Craws Programme is the largest junior development programme in the country, but we still have limited spaces. To register with The Carnoustie Craws Coaching programme please select/click on one of the two statements below that applies to you. You will be taken to our website to complete a registration form and our Golf Development Team will be in touch as soon as possible to advise if a place is available.

I AM UNDER 18 and I already have a golf handicap index of 36.4 or less.

I AM UNDER 18 and I don’t have a golf handicap index yet or my handicap index is greater than 36.4.

I am under 18 years old; how do I obtain a 3-Course Season Ticket?

3-Course Season Tickets are available for golfers under 18 years of age with an official handicap index of 36.4 or below. A handicap certificate is required as proof. This applies to golfers who qualify for a free Season Ticket and to golfers who are paying for their Season Ticket.

I am under 18 but don’t live in the DD7 postcode area or attend a Carnoustie Cluster School, can I become a Season Ticket Holder? 

Yes.  If you reside in Angus or Tayside (proof of address is required), you can join as a Season Ticket Holder. You may purchase a 1-Course or 2-Course Season Ticket or, if you meet the handicap index requirements (36.4 or below), you can purchase a 3-Course Ticket.

I am under 18 but don’t live in the DD7 postcode area or attend a Carnoustie Cluster School, can I join The Carnoustie Craws Coaching Programme? 

Yes.  If you reside in Angus or Tayside (proof of address is required), you can join The Carnoustie Craws Coaching Programme. While The Carnoustie Craws Programme is the largest junior development program in the country, we still have limited spaces. To register with The Carnoustie Craws Coaching programme please click on one of the two statements below that applies to you. You will be taken to our website to complete a registration form and our Golf Development Team will be in touch as soon as possible to advise if a place is available.

I AM UNDER 18 and I already have a golf handicap index of 36.4 or less.

I AM UNDER 18 and I don’t have a golf handicap index yet or my handicap index is greater than 36.4.

Why are free season tickets not offered to all Under 18’s who live in Angus and Tayside?
Increasing participation in golf is one of our key objectives but offering free golf to such a large area would put too much pressure on the courses and be detrimental to the growth of golf at other surrounding golf clubs. Angus and Tayside have an abundance of fantastic golf facilities and golf clubs and we firmly believe that each club or facility in the area should have its own thriving junior golf development programme to help bring through the next generation of golfers.

Under 18 Ticket Options at Carnoustie

I am under 18 years old, can I obtain a free Season Ticket / attend the Carnoustie Craws Progamme / pay for a Season Ticket? Please use the matrix below to find out what you qualify for at Carnoustie.

*Free if the golfer is either a Carnoustie resident (DD7 postcode area), Carnoustie Cluster Schools attendee (Carnoustie High School, Woodlands, Carlogie, Burnside, Newbigging or Monikie Primary Schools) or currently enrolled in the Carnoustie Craws Junior Golf Programme