Inaugurated in 1994 the Junior Open came under The R&A’s administrative control in 2000. All national golf organizations are invited to send one boy and/or one girl, under the age of 16 to compete in the 54 hole event.

 

To encourage all nations to enter there are three handicap categories: gold: 3 and under, silver: 4-9, bronze: 10-15. In addition, players are grouped in world regions and prizes are awarded to regional winners.

 

In recent years entries have been attracted from over 60 nations and the experience for juniors includes not only the golf tournament but an opportunity for competitors to meet their counterparts from many different golfing nations. Traditionally the Junior Open is played in the same week in July as the Open Championship and at a nearby course. All competitors are invited to attend The Open after the conclusion of their own event.