Arena Structures St Andrews Open Golf Success

Rain and winds gusting over 40mph buffeted the world famous Old Course at St Andrews, causing play to be suspended as balls moved on greens. However, Arena’s temporary structures continued to provide luxurious protection for Royal and Ancient patrons, guests, players and the media throughout the Championship.

The weather also caused the cancellation of a ‘Past Champions Challenge’ on the pre-tournament Wednesday, but the 280 guests and participants enjoyed the comfort of the Links Restaurant hospitality structure, particularly a Q + A session with Tony Jacklin hosted by John Inverdale.

This year’s Open was also particularly special for Arena Structures’ project director Ron Smith, who celebrated working on his 25th Open Championship, pictured (on left) with Tony Jacklin (centre) and Arena Structures managing director Grahame Muir (right). Ron says:

“It has been an honour to have been associated with a quarter of a century of Open Championships. Year on year we strive to achieve higher standards and the range and sophistication of the temporary structures around the course has moved on so far. I have seen the introduction of air conditioning, state of the art communications and screens and the level of interiors we now create have improved beyond recognition.”

Arena Structures project manager Mark Shelley was responsible for installing over 25,000m² of facilities around the course, which included The Links Restaurant, Media Centre, Royal and Ancient Club Tent, Players Lounge, public catering and hospitality. Arena ensured that all of the structures were finished to the highest of standards to suit their various uses, with Arena’s new Horizon windows system offering improved spectator viewing and temperature control.