Gemma Dryburgh is hoping to follow in the footsteps of Robert MacIntyre when she tees it up at this week’s ISPS HANDA Women’s Scottish Open.
Dryburgh was inspired earlier this summer when MacIntyre won the Genesis Scottish Open in front of his home fans.
Afterwards, the Scot sent her fellow countryman a message and when speaking at Dundonald Links, she said it’s something she has also dreamed about doing.
“Watching Bob win at Renaissance was so inspirational,” she said. “I sent him a message and just said how proud we are of him.
“It’s just amazing to see what he’s done the last year or well the last few years, actually. To try and win The Scottish Open would just be a dream of mine like it was his. It would be great to go in the back of his footsteps.”
The 31-year-old has played in this tournament around Dundonald Links several times finishing in T34 in 2016 and 2022, and T44 in 2023.
Dryburgh has seen the progression of how the golf club has changed over the years and also the calibre of player taking part in the tournament and believes it is amazing for Scottish golf.
She explained: “It feels really good. I’ve been here a few times. I think the first time I came here was in 2016. It’s obviously changed a lot since then. I think we were in a port-a-cabin in the clubhouse back then, so it’s nice to see how it’s grown.
“But yeah it’s good to be back in Scotland. My family is coming to watch this week and then even more next week, as well. It’s a nice time at home and just enjoying being back in Scotland.
“This is going to be one of the strongest fields we’ve ever had. You’ve got Lydia Ko, who just won the gold medal last week and is in the Hall of Fame. She supported this event for years.
“I remember playing a practise round with her in 2016 or 2017 here. It’s amazing to have these amazing golfers, top 10s in the world coming to Scotland and playing. Hopefully, everyone comes out and watches.”
Dryburgh, who played in her first Solheim Cup last year, will be teeing it up at 7.32 am (local time) from the 10th tee.
The Scot has the honour of playing alongside defending champion Celine Boutier and Olympic gold medallist Lydia Ko.
“I was very excited when I saw the draw,” she continued. “I had actually a few messages before I even saw the draw saying ‘oh great draw’ and I was like, I wonder who it is.
“It’s actually funny because I think one of the first times I played here, I played a practise round with Lydia, and I just remembered being overawed by her.
“Obviously, I’m still overawed by her, but I’m a bit more used to it. I know her well now, and excited to play with her and Solheim teammate Celine, as well. It will be good fun.”
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