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The Secret of St. Andrews podcast is for golf enthusiasts, history buffs and patriots.
You're listening to The Secret of St Andrews Podcast. Visit us at thesecretofstandrews.com, and while you're there, feel free to talk with Hamish, our AI-powered caddy.
The Match.
In the year 1681, a remarkable event unfolded on the historic Leith Links in Scotland, marking one of the earliest recorded international golf matches. The stage was set for a contest between Scotland and England, fueled by a spirited debate over the origins of golf. Two English courtiers had boldly claimed that golf was an English game, a statement that did not sit well with the Scots.
Enter the Duke of York, the future King James VII of Scotland, who was residing at Holyroodhouse as the King's Commissioner. Determined to defend Scotland's honor, he challenged the Englishmen to a match, selecting John Paterson as his partner. Paterson was not just any golfer; he was a skilled golf club maker and renowned as a champion golfer of his time.
The Duke rounded out his team with a young boy named Andrew Dixon, who served as his forecaddy. This was the first recorded use of caddies and the start of a distinguished career for Dixon as a caddy and club maker. In 2003, Dixon was inducted into the Caddy Hall of Fame. The match drew considerable attention, with spectators gathering to witness this clash of nations on the green.
As the game progressed, it became clear that the Duke and Paterson were a formidable team. Their synergy on the course was unmatched, and they played with precision and skill that left their opponents struggling to keep up. In a thrilling conclusion, the Duke of York and John Paterson emerged victorious, securing not only bragging rights for Scotland but also a generous purse from the wager.
In an act of generosity and camaraderie, the Duke shared his winnings with Paterson. With his share, Paterson purchased a house on Canongate in Edinburgh, which came to be known as Golfer's Land—a lasting testament to their triumph. This match not only solidified Scotland’s claim to golf but also highlighted the sport’s growing popularity and its potential for friendly competition across borders.
It remains a celebrated chapter in the rich tapestry of golf's history in Scotland.