The Open Championship: A Beginner’s Guide to Golf’s Oldest Major

Whether you’re new to golf or already a keen follower, you’ve probably heard about The Open Championship. It’s one of the biggest events in the golfing calendar, and often called simply “The Open” and was formerly know as “The British Open.”

But what exactly is it, and why is it so important? This beginner’s guide will cover all the basics you need to know about The Open Championship.

What is The Open Championship?

The Open Championship is one of the four major golf tournaments played each year. The other three majors are; The Masters, U.S. Open, and PGA Championship.

The Open is the oldest of these, first played in 1860, making it the most historic golf tournament in the world.

It’s organised by The R&A, the governing body for golf outside the United States and Mexico, and it’s traditionally played on links courses in the United Kingdom.

A links course is a specific type of golf course located by the sea, featuring rolling terrain, natural dunes, and often windy conditions, making it a unique challenge.

When and Where is The Open Played?

The Open Championship is held in July each year. The Open rotates among a select group of famous golf courses in the UK.

Some of the most famous Open venues include:

• St Andrews (Scotland) – Known as the “Home of Golf”
• Royal Birkdale (England) – A fan favourite on England’s north-west coast
• Royal Portrush (Northern Ireland) – Hosted The Open in 2019 and returns in 2025
• Royal St George’s (England) – The first course outside Scotland to host The Open.
• Royal Troon (Scotland) – Known for its iconic Postage Stamp par-3

Each course has its own unique challenges, and the weather conditions often play a big part in how players perform.

Why is The Open Special?

Several things make The Open Championship stand out:

• History and Tradition: It’s the oldest major and has been played for over 160 years.
• Links Golf: The courses are different from typical parkland courses, requiring different skills, like controlling the ball in wind and playing from tricky lies.
• The Claret Jug: The winner is awarded the famous Claret Jug trophy, one of the most iconic prizes in golf.
• Global Participation: Top golfers from around the world compete, including the best from the USA, Europe, and beyond.

How Does The Open Work?

The tournament lasts four days, from Thursday to Sunday, with 72 holes of golf played (18 holes per day).

The field starts with about 156 players, including professionals and some amateurs who qualify. After the first two days, a cut is made, only players who scored well enough continue to the final two rounds.

The golfer with the lowest total score after 72 holes wins the championship.

What Can Beginners Learn from The Open?

• Course Management: Links courses at The Open teach the importance of playing smart, adjusting to wind, and dealing with uneven ground.
• Adaptability: The Open’s weather can change quickly, so players must be ready to adapt their game.
• Patience and Focus: The conditions and long format show the value of staying focused and patient over multiple days.

How to Watch or Follow The Open

If you want to follow The Open, you can watch it live on TV or stream it online through sports channels. Many broadcasters also offer highlights and expert commentary that explain what’s happening in simple terms – perfect for beginners.

You can also check The Open’s official website for scores, player info, and updates during the tournament.

If you’re new to golf, The Open Championship is a great place to start learning about the sport’s history, challenges, and excitement. Its unique courses, rich tradition, and world-class players make it a must-watch event each year.