Perth 10 year old James Orr enjoys a surprise lesson from Tom Watson at Muirfield

Perth 10 year old’s lesson from the Master

When Perth 10 year old, James Orr arrived at the clubgolf junior coaching area during last week’s Senior Open Championship at Muirfield he got far more than he’d bargained for.

James was taking his first practice swings under the eyes of one of clubgolf’s volunteer coaches when American Tom Watson, who had just finished his warm up on the adjoining practice area, materialized.

Mr Watson, five times British Open champion and one of the most successful golfers of the modern era, didn’t just stand by and watch the 10 year old.  He gave him a lesson, before heading out onto the East Lothian course to claim his third British Senior Open title.

“He watched him swing, adjusted his grip and then got him to hit some balls before passing on a few more tips,” said James's mother Shona Orr.  “He was very encouraging and enthusiastic and it's great that he took the time out to work with James.

“James was really thrilled, especially when Tom Watson went on to win the competition.  After the coaching we watched the afternoon's golf, staying onto the bitter end to see Tom Watson being presented with the trophy.”

Earlier this year James joined the nearby Craigie Hill Golf Club in Perth.  “The club has a good junior membership and they are really keen on helping the youngsters,” added Mrs Orr.

"The Senior Open was a great experience for him and followed on from the day we had at the British Open at Carnoustie the previous week.”