I can’t actually say I enjoy golf; although I’ve always enjoyed sports, I’ve never considered golf to be one. I know a lot of people who feel the same way, too. Although I’m sure it takes great precision and concentration, I’d rather watch hockey.
But then, something magical happens, something that only occurs once a year. And we wait that entire year, patiently, fingers constantly crossed that he’ll do it again. And again and again and again. We’ve been lucky enough to have Christmas in October for the third consecutive year and this year is anticipated to be the best.
We’re of course talking about the Alfred-Dunhill Links Pro/Amateur Annual Tournament!
It’s been two years since Jamie first began participating in the elite event featuring celebrities and pro golfers from around the world. In 2014, Jamie first participated in the tournament paired with pro partner Danny Willett. It was during his rookie year that Jamie dubbed himself as the ‘Bad Golfer,’ which hilariously and sarcastically caught on with his fans.
In 2015, Dornan attended the event yet again, this time paired alongside pro Peter Uihlein. While his fans were sardonically tweeting support with #BadGolfer hashtags, turns out Dornan wasn’t the self-proclaimed bad golfer that he thought he was. On the 18th hole, Dornan putted a beautiful eagle which, based on his surprised and humbled expression, was something he nor his fans will soon forget. Seriously, that video makes me smile every time I watch it. So, the pressure was clearly on if Jamie decided to return for the 2016 season which thank the good lord above, he did!
Dornan was paired with young, 24 year old pro Tyrrell Hatton just days before the 2016 Pro/Am kicked off. And well, the pair did pretty well for their first day! Dornan enjoyed a day of practice rounds prior to today’s kickoff which looks to be paying off because the pair ended up finishing in third. Although, Dornan was frustrated with some parts of the course.
While speaking to reporters, Jamie expressed how difficult Carnoustie is, the first green of three of which he plays on. (Kingsbarns and St. Andrew’s are the other two) In a fan video posted to social media, you can see Dornan come within inches of sinking the ball from an obscured location on the green, quickly followed by his evident frustration. Of the course (and day,) Dornan said “I loved it. I’m glad it’s over. It’s the hardest course by a mile […] I love it. I say some harsh things about Carnoustie just cause it’s so hard compared to the other two, really.”
But who’s he trying to fool, really? Jamie did spectacular for being away from the tournament for a year. He goes on to modestly boast that “…for four holes I played, what? Four birdies, which never usually happens.” He and partner Hatton did so well indeed, that they placed third by the end of the day! Not so bad for a Bad Golfer.
And even though the day was meant to be for golf, Jamie still (as always) took the time to meet, talk, take pictures with, shake hands and sign autographs for his adoring fans who came from all across the world. The images are plentiful from both the front and behind. Fans were ecstatic that the celeb, among many, took some time to get personal with them. He’s just too sweet!
Tomorrow, Jamie and Tyrrell take on Kingsbarns against pro Brian O’Droscoll and amateur Alvaro Quiros. Their tee time is set for 11:12am (UK Time – 6:12am EST) on the first tee. It’s sure to be another great day of full of Jamie and my current favourite sport, golf.
You can view all of today’s stunning HQ photos in the gallery.
Thank you to all of our friends and fans who have also contributed their pictures from today’s tournament.