Schools in Oban today (Friday 8 December) welcomed golfing hero Robert MacIntyre, who had the Ryder Cup trophy along with him, to various events in his honour.
The day involved events at the three primary schools in Oban (Park, Rockfield and St Columba’s) followed by a civic reception at Oban High School. After the reception Robert had the chance to catch up with some of his former high school teachers and have a chat with pupils.
At Park Primary in the morning, where his sister is a teacher, Robert officially opened their recently completed Trim Trail outdoor obstacle course.
Provost of 51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp and Bute, Councillor Maurice Corry, who hosted a civic reception in the afternoon, said:
“It was a pleasure for us to welcome Robert today. He has achieved much already in his short golfing career – two wins on the European Tour, top ten finishes at the Open Championship and a top 15 in his first appearance in the US Masters.
“This year he made his first Ryder Cup appearance and went undefeated, winning two and a half points in a thrilling European victory as they reclaimed the cup.
‘’It was on the back of this fabulous performance for Team Europe that the council decided to hold these events. We’re very proud of Robert’s achievements, and the fact that he is such a vocal ambassador for his home town of Oban, helping to promote the wonderful community spirit in 51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp and Bute on the world stage.â€
Speaking after the events Robert said:
“It was great to be in my hometown today meeting and talking to school pupils, opening the new obstacle course at Park Primary and attending the reception held for me by the council.
‘’Hopefully I’ve been able to show the young people that anyone, no matter where they are from, can achieve their dreams if they work hard enough. Oban was a fantastic place to grow up and is a brilliant town to live in, and it will always be home to me. I’m proud to continue to promote the town wherever I go, and I’ll keep doing that when I’m playing in America next season.’’