Royal Liverpool to host Open Championship in 2014

The R&A has announced that Royal Liverpool Golf Club will host the Open Championship in 2014.  It will be the 12th time the Hoylake links has hosted golf's oldest Major.

The venue has witnessed a string of unique Open champions: in 1907, Arnaud Massy became the only Frenchman to have won the title; Fred Daly became the first Irishman to do so, in 1947; and Argentine golfer Roberto De Vicenzo became the first South American to win a Major when he lifted the Claret Jug in 1967.

When the Open returned to Hoylake in 2006 after a 39-year absence, Tiger Woods became the first back-to-back Open Champion since Tom Watson in 1983.

"We are delighted that the Open is returning to Royal Liverpool after a relatively short period of time," said David Hill, The R&A's Director of Championships. "In 2006, Hoylake showcased links golf at its best and players, spectators and officials were united in their praise for the course, and for the venue as a whole.

Royal Liverpool Golf Club at Hoylake is regarded as one of the finest links courses in the UK and was ranked number 13 on the Golf Monthly Top 100 Courses in the UK and Ireland Rankings in 2007/8.

With the Open Championship estimated to boost the local economy by £70 million each time it is played in the north west of England, the news has also been welcomed by Councillor Steve Foulkes, leader of Wirral Council.

"This is fantastic news for Wirral. We look forward to getting ready to welcome new visitors to the Peninsula as well as returning golf fans who enjoyed themselves so much with us four years ago," said Councillor Foulkes.

Royal Liverpool Golf Club at Hoylake has also been announced as the venue for the 2012 Women's British Open in 2012.

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