Iconic Golf Course Transforms into Key Winter Olympics Venue
The iconic golf course at Trump Turnberry, located on Scotland’s southwest coast, is a landmark of rich history and geographical significance. Established 125 years ago, it is framed by the ancient Ailsa Craig, a volcanic plug that rises dramatically from the Firth of Clyde, around 10 miles offshore. This remarkable island, with its origins dating back 600 million years, presents a stunning backdrop visible from nearly every hole on Turnberry’s famous Aisla course.
Historical Significance of Ailsa Craig
Ailsa Craig has long been a significant feature for both golfers and golf enthusiasts. It stood out during the four Open Championships hosted at Turnberry, especially during the 2009 tournament, when Tom Watson nearly clinched the Claret Jug at the age of 59. Its distinct silhouette is as synonymous with Turnberry as the tournament itself.
Curling’s Connection to Ailsa Craig
While golf is central to Turnberry’s identity, the Ailsa Craig granite is highly prized in the world of curling as well. The raw materials for curling stones are sourced from this island, specifically the Blue Hone and Common Green granite, which are uniquely suited for the sport.
- Blue Hone Granite: Used for the running edge of curling stones.
- Common Green Granite: Resilient to heat transfer and splintering, forms the body of the stone.
The manufacturing of curling stones is overseen by Ricky English, operations manager of Kays Scotland. Since 2006, Kays has been the exclusive supplier of curling stones for the Olympics. The factory, located approximately 45 minutes from Turnberry, produces about 12 stones daily, with each stone priced around $1,000.
Curling Stones: Quality and Demand
Kays takes pride in maintaining high quality standards for all stones, regardless of their intended shipment. This quality has garnered a global clientele, expanding from the U.S. to Asia and even Antarctica.
Specialized Products and Trends
| Product | Price (Approx.) | Production Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Curling Stone | $1,000 | 12 stones/day |
| Olympics-themed giftware | Varies | Seasonal demand |
With the Winter Olympics creating a wave of interest, Kays has capitalized on the occasion by launching Olympics-related merchandise incorporating Ailsa Craig’s granite. Orders have surged, especially from the U.S., where even cultural icons have raised awareness about curling and its connections to Ailsa Craig.
Indeed, the link between golf and curling is more pronounced than it might appear. Skills in both sports—precision, touch, and feel—often overlap, fostering a community among players of each discipline. However, English, focused on his role at Kays, has little time to explore his own golfing abilities as he navigates the busy Olympic season.
The transformation of the golf course into a key winter Olympics venue highlights the multifaceted relevance of Ailsa Craig. Its historical and ecological significance reverberates through both sports, binding in a unique narrative integral to Scotland’s legacy.
