The legacy of hosting the Ryder Cup should lead to a boost for young Scottish golfers, the Scottish Conservatives have said.
Speaking in a debate on the topic in the Scottish Parliament, the party’s sports spokeswoman Liz Smith said too many talented young golfers currently feel the need to go abroad to improve their game.
She said the best legacy would be for the Scottish Government to do more to help existing clubs improve their surroundings to encourage more people to hone their skills here in Scotland.
She suggested golf clubs could be given business rate tax breaks to help them capitalise on the potential legacy from hosting the tournament.
Liz also made it clear she supported local people who wanted a permanent bridge to be built over the A9 at Gleneagles as part of the Cup’s legacy.
Scottish Conservative sports spokeswoman Liz Smith MSP said:
“The success of the Ryder Cup has provided us with a real opportunity to help talented Scottish golfers.
“The week saw Scotland at its absolute best – the home of golf was brimming with some of the world’s greatest golfing talent.
“This should be the springboard for helping golf clubs around the country do more to encourage and help young golf starlets.
“The SNP should be actively looking at ways to define and create a lasting legacy that will put young Scottish talent at its heart.
“Offering business rate tax cuts for golf clubs is just one way of helping clubs boost membership and I very much hope the SNP are open-minded enough to look into a range of options that will secure a lasting legacy.”