Left to right: Sir Menzies Campbell, University Chancellor, Padraig Harrington, Arnold Palmer, Jim Farmer, Honorary Professional of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, Tom Watson and Johann Rupert, CEO of Richemont Group.

JIM FARMER ACCOLADE AT ST ANDREWS UNIVERSITY

NEWS RELEASE ISSUED BY THE PROFESSIONAL GOLFERS ASSOCIATION
PGA captain and home town hero Jim Farmer stepped into the limelight during a special graduation ceremony at the University of St Andrews.
Farmer took centre stage with three of golf's biggest names when he was presented with the University Medal in recognition of his lifetime achievements and outstanding contribution to the community of St Andrews.
Making up a dream four-ball on the eve of the Open Championship were Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson and Padraig Harrington who were also presented with honorary degrees.
For Farmer, who was born in St Andrews and made two of his six Open Championship appearances at the Old Course, receiving the award had special resonance due to his links with the town.
"To be a St Andrews boy who started as a pro footballer and then pro golfer with no chance of going to university, to be given this award is an honour," said Farmer.
"It's even more special to receive it alongside Arnold, Tom and Padraig.
"As a six-year-old I started off watching the Big Three on TV - Palmer, Nicklaus and Player - and Palmer was the first person that got me excited about the game.
"Then as a national coach I used Tom Watson as a role model, used his technique as the benchmark and it's stood the test of time as we saw last year when he should have won the Open so I got good vibes as national coach that I was passing on the right message.
"And Padraig I have met a couple of times and he seems a great guy."
Farmer, who is Honorary Professional at the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, has enjoyed a hugely influential career as a player, coach and administrator.
To many in St Andrews, where he grew up and still lives, he is ‘Mr Golf’ coaching and mentoring generations of amateurs and professionals.
He received the award University Chancellor from Sir Menzies Campbell at the University's graduation venue at Younger Hall in North Street, St Andrews.
Vice-Chancellor Dr Louise Richardson said: "To many, Jim Farmer's name is synonymous with golf in St Andrews.
"He is a widely respected figure in our local community and throughout golf.
"We're absolutely delighted that Jim has agreed to be with us and accept this richly deserved award.”