The R&A has created what they’re calling the ‘Autograph Zone’ this year at Royal Troon. The mission is to create an area at The Open Championship where the “younger generation” can “meet the world’s best golfers in a secure, controlled and fun environment for photos and autographs.”
Call it a safe space for young golf fans where they don’t have to worry about getting trampled by professional autograph seekers.
In the news release, the R&A included a photo of Rory McIlory taking a selfie with a group of young fans in the newly created Zone.
The Autograph Zone is “open to fans with youth tickets” and is available during both Practice and Championships days.
Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, Executive Director – Championships at The R&A said, “We are delighted to introduce this new feature for young golf fans attending The Open this week. The Autograph Zone is a wonderful opportunity for the players to engage with young fans in a fun and secure area.
Except it looks like one guy was able to sneak past the autograph zone security guards, and ended up taking a spot from a little kid who couldn’t get in.
Here’s a related Instagram post from The Open media team.
