Gemma Dryburgh is hoping to follow in Robert MacIntyre’s footsteps when she tees off at the ISPS HANDA Women’s Scottish Open this week.
Dryburgh was inspired earlier this summer when MacIntyre won the Genesis Scottish Open in front of his home crowd.
The Scot then sent a message to her compatriot and said in a speech at Dundonald Links that it was something she had also dreamed of.
“Seeing Bob win at Renaissance was so inspiring,” she said. “I sent him a message and just said how proud we are of him.”
“It’s just incredible to see what he’s done in the last year, or actually the last couple of years. To try and win the Scottish Open would be as much a dream for me as it is for him. It would be great to follow in his footsteps.”
The 31-year-old has taken part in this tournament around Dundonald Links several times, finishing T34 in 2016 and 2022 and T44 in 2023.
Dryburgh has witnessed the development of the golf club over the years and the standard of players taking part in the tournament and believes it is great for Scottish golf.
She explained: “It feels really good. I’ve been here a few times. I think the first time I was here was in 2016. A lot has obviously changed since then. I think we were in a mobile booth in the clubhouse back then, so it’s nice to see how it’s grown.
“But yes, it’s nice to be back in Scotland. My family are coming to watch this week and even more next week. It’s a lovely time at home and I’m just enjoying being back in Scotland.
“This will be one of the strongest fields we’ve ever had. There’s Lydia Ko, who won the gold medal last week and is in the Hall of Fame. She’s been supporting this event for years.
“I remember playing a practice round with her here in 2016 or 2017. It’s incredible that these great golfers, who are in the top 10 in the world, come to Scotland and play. Hopefully everyone will come and watch.”
Dryburgh, who played in her first Solheim Cup last year, will tee off from the 10th tee at 7:32 a.m. local time.
The Scot has the honour of playing alongside defending champion Céline Boutier and Olympic gold medalist Lydia Ko.
“I was really excited when I saw the draw,” she continued. “In fact, I had gotten a few messages before the draw saying, ‘Oh, great draw,’ and I was thinking, who is that?
“It’s funny actually because I think one of my first games here I played a practice round with Lydia and I remember being blown away by her.
“Of course I’m still overwhelmed by her, but I’m a bit more used to it. I know her well now and I’m looking forward to playing with her and my Solheim teammate Celine. It’s going to be great fun.”
