Amateurs have new date

The Amateur Championship is being put back two weeks to June 19-24 this summer so that more college players in America can take part.

The event, at Royal St George’s and Prince’s in Kent, will also see exemptions extended to the winners of 55 worldwide amateur tournaments following an 18-month study to identify which attracts the strongest entries.

Additionally, places will be offered to the winners of the British boys and American junior titles.

“We spent a considerable time considering the amendments to the Amateur entry conditions in order to accommodate players around the world,” said Peter Dawson, chief executive of the Royal and Ancient Club.

“It is important that the Amateur Championship attracts the best possible field – and with the change of date, we believe it will now be possible for more overseas players to enter.

“Furthermore, the new exemptions will ensure that many of the world’s top amateurs will be guaranteed a place in the starting field of 288 and can therefore finalise their travel and accommodation arrangements.”