In 2003 the International Pairs golf tournament finals will be held in Scotland for the first time in its five-year history.

The International Pairs, supported by VisitScotland, is delighted to announce the move, which will see the largest competition of its kind in the world hosted at Scottish golf courses for the next three years.

Ross Honey, founder of the International Pairs, said: "I am delighted that thousands of golfers from across the UK will be able to enjoy playing their beloved game in the home of golf. As a Scotsman, I am particularly pleased that the Pairs is heading to my homeland. It has been a privilege to work with the team at VisitScotland who have helped secure the future of the International Pairs north of the border.

"Scotland has many of the world's finest golf courses, not all of which are household names, and we hope to give many of them the opportunity to welcome new visitors.

"Scotland is a nation with golf in its soul and I'm delighted that the International Pairs is coming home."

Neen Kelly, VisitScotland's Brand Manager - Active Scotland, said: "The country is looking forward to reaping the many benefits of hosting the International Pairs. It has built up a reputation in a relatively short time for enabling thousands of golfers to enjoy competition at the very highest level and enjoy the golfing experience of playing somewhere special.

"We intend to continue that tradition and help thousands of people visit the home of golf through winning an International Pairs event at their home club. For those who have never played golf in Scotland we hope it will be an experience they will treasure and want to repeat."

The International Pairs recognises that Scotland will always be the spiritual home of the game. Golfing in Scotland is a unique experience and one with such a rich history and heritage. With over 540 challenging, scenic and welcoming courses, a whole golfing world exists north of the border.