Getting a Tee Time on the Old Course?

Getting a tee time on the Old Course can sometimes be a confusing or difficult process. In this post I will do my best to explain the multiple processes of getting the coveted tee time. 

Ballot:

-You can enter the Old Course ballot by calling the links clubhouse before 2pm two days before your desired round. The chances of getting a tee time via the ballot during high season can be quite slim. Although, tee times for locals (students such as myself qualify as locals) are reserved in the mornings typically from 8AM-10AM as well as a block of time in the afternoon. This makes it easy for locals to get tee times via the ballot. If you come to St Andrews and struggle to get into the ballot, shoot me an email (livingasalinksgolfer@gmail.com). I can enter the local ballot with guests, and am always looking for a game with interesting people.

-During the off-season, the ballot typically doesn’t fill up and playing the course is easy and straightforward.

-Singles cannot enter the ballot, but can be put on a list to join 2 and 3-balls throughout the day. A typical busy summer day only has 15 or so openings for singles, therefore a queue at the starters box starts very early in the morning to be put on this singles list. People line up in the wee hours of the morning.

Dark Times:

-“Dark times” are tee times after the tee times end during which locals can go out and play. If all else fails and you aren’t able to get a tee time, head on down to the starter after the ballot times end and if you're lucky you can get in a round. However, play quickly so that you aren't playing the final holes in the dark.

Advanced Booking:

-A small number of tee times can be booked months in advance through the Links Clubhouse. In addition to these tee times, golf tour companies also have a small number of ballot times reserved on certain days. If you are willing to pay the hefty tour company price, you can grab a tee time.

http://www.standrews.org.uk/Playing-in-St-Andrews/Book-Online/How-to-book.aspx