Calum Scott was savouring the “memory of a lifetime” after the Nairn golfer won the silver medal in the 152nd Open Championship at Royal Troon. The 20-year-old signed off from an unforgettable week with a five-over 76 and finished as the leading amateur with an eight-over aggregate. Three shots better off than his nearest rival for the amateur prize going into the final day, Scott had a decent enough cushion.
The former Walker Cup player could even afford the luxury of a back nine of 40 as he eased over the finishing line and joined an esteemed list of silver medal winners that includes the likes of Jose Maria Olazabal, Tiger Woods, Justin Rose and Rory McIlroy. They’ll be hanging up the bunting in the Nairn clubhouse for his return. “Super happy, buzzing, excited, relieved as well,” gasped Scott after getting the job done.
“I made it hard for myself but after about the 14th or 15th someone said, ‘you’ve got a five shot lead’ and at that point I was pretty chilled. I could take it easy from there and I didn’t have to be too stressed.” The march up the 18th to a rousing reception from the grandstands added to the moment.
“My caddie told me to soak it all in,” said Scott. “I did the last 100 yards just walking, and I got kind of emotional. It’s a memory I’ll cherish for a lifetime.
“There’s been a bunch of silver medal winners who have gone on to do incredible things in the game. I’ve got a year left at college and I think winning this does.