DUNDONALD BECOMES FIRST UK GOLF VENUE TO JOIN IAC SPORTS AND LEISURE NETWORK

Dundonald Links has become the first UK golf venue to join the prestigious International Associate Clubs (IAC) network, a global collection of almost 250 illustrious sport and leisure clubs.

The Ayrshire venue – home to a popular Kyle Phillips links course, an award-winning clubhouse and acclaimed accommodation – joins a star-studded network spanning six continents, including more than 40 golf clubs.

The partnership means members of IAC’s global network can enjoy exclusive reciprocal rates at Dundonald Links, making the venue an even more attractive prospect for many of the estimated four million international tourists that visit Scotland each year.

David-Ross Nicol, director of golf at Dundonald Links, said: “Ayrshire is a must-visit for anyone who loves golf, and we believe that, by joining the International Associate Clubs network, we’ve given members of these fantastic clubs across the world one more reason to come and experience what we have to offer here at Dundonald Links.

“It’s a pleasure to be part of such an illustrious group and a testament to how far our off-course facilities have come in the last six years.”

IAC was founded more than 35 years ago with the primary objective of facilitating reciprocal access for members of prestigious clubs on a global scale. It has since grown to include clubs in upwards of 50 countries.

Alexander Klostermann, executive director at IAC, said: "We are excited to have Dundonald Links join the IAC Network. With its excellent golf facilities, we find it will make a great addition to our network of over 200 clubs worldwide for our members to utilise.”

Dundonald Links’ history stretches back to the early 20th century, but the venue was transformed when Phillips laid down the modern version of the course in 2002. Darwin Escapes purchased the club in 2019 and transformed it into an award-winning resort, complete with the modern clubhouse, Canny Crow restaurant, whisky room and accommodation.

The course boasts a stellar reputation as a key part of Ayrshire’s world-renowned ‘golf coast’ and regularly hosts both the ISPS Handa Women’s Scottish Open and final qualifying for the Open Championship.