The R&A has appointed two new starters for The Open, David Lancaster and Matt Corker, who will announce the players on the first tee at the 145th Open at Royal Troon, from July 14-17.
Lancaster will become The Open’s official starter, announcing the world’s best players as they begin their rounds on the historic Ayrshire links. Matt Corker will provide support during the several hours that Lancaster sends players off on each of the Championship days.
The pair replace Ivor Robson, who retired after last year’s Open at St Andrews, after serving as official starter for more than 40 years.
“It is an honour and a privilege to be given the opportunity to become the official starter,” said Lancaster, who is a member at Cumberwell Park Golf Club near Bath. “The Open is one of the most prestigious events in world sport and I have long been inspired by its heritage and the tremendous performances of the golfing greats over the years. Matt and I are very much looking forward to playing a part in history by introducing the players on the first tee.”
Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, the R&A’s Executive Director of Championships, said: “David and Matt have a wealth of experience in presenting to audiences of all sizes and we are delighted that they will be announcing the players on the first tee, beginning this year at Royal Troon. We were looking for starters who would be comfortable performing in front of both the thousands of spectators on site and the millions around the world watching at home. David and Matt were recommended to us for their expertise in this field, and when we met it became clear that they would be an excellent fit for this role.”