Golf:Royal Liverpool Golf Club, otherwise known as Hoylake, will host the British Open for the 12th time when the oldest major championship returns there in 2014.
After a 39-year absence the British Open returned to the famous Lancashire links in 2006, where Tiger Woods put on a master class of shot-making to win his third and back-to-back Open titles.
The world number one became the first player to win back-to-back Opens since Tom Watson in 1983. The American’s feat was all the more impressive for he only used a driver once all week and instead placed a premium on iron play and course management.
Hoylake was also a famous hunting ground for Fred Daly, who became Ireland’s first major champion when he lifted the Claret Jug there way back in 1947. By way of firsts, Robert De Vicenzo became the first South American to win a major when he triumphed at the Liverpool venue in 1967.
“We are delighted that The Open is returning to Royal Liverpool after a relatively short period of time,” said David Hill, R&A 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.”
This year the British Open returns to the Home of Golf at St Andrews to celebrate the championship’s 150th anniversary.
Stewart Cink will defend after he defeated veteran Watson in a play-off at Turnberry last July.