ADMIN MIX-UP COSTS RICHIE

RAMSAY A PLACE IN ARNOLD

PALMER INVITATIONAL

An administration mix-up cost Richie Ramsay, Scotland's reigning United States amateur champion, a place in the field for the Arnold Palmer Invitational tournament which began at Bay Hill Golf Club today.

Ramsay arrived in Florida to take his place among the the likes of Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson only to be told that there was no place for him because he had not been registered as taking part in what is a US PGA Tour event.

Richie had been given an invitation to play after winning the US amateur title.

"I will now use the time to concentrate on my preparations for the Masters and also the Georgia Cup match (against British amateur champion Julien Guerrier from March) at the end of the month," said the Aberdonian who is a student at Stirling University.

"The ball would appear to be in the Scottish Golf Union's court because they are responsible for looking after Richie's administration. It is all part of a learning curve for him as an invidiual. I'm, sure he willo be double checking registrations in future," said Ronnie MacAskill, director of golf and head professional at Royal Aberdeen Golf Club.

"It's a big disappointment for him but he will be putting in extra hours on the range and focusing on the Georgia Cup now.

"It would have been great for our members to watch him teeing the ball up in such grea company at Bay Hil. Instead, we'll just have to watch Coronation Street."

+Royal Aberdeen Golf Club have commissioned an oil painting of Richie Ramsay to be given a place of honour in the Balgownie clubhouse.