Groundbreaking 'mutual benevolence agreement', signed by Dornoch provost and mayor of Pinehurst, USA, at ceremony today, will build on golf legend Donald Ross's legacy
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A GROUNDBREAKING agreement has been signed between Dornoch and a golfing community in America.
The “Cooperative liaison of Mutual Benevolence Agreement” between Dornoch and Pinehurst in North Carolina was officially formalised at a ceremony in the Sutherland town on Wednesday.
Provost of Dornoch Patrick Murray, clad in the regalia of the post, signed the accord along with the Mayor of Pinehurst John Strickland, who with his wife Cynthia made a special trip to Dornoch for the occasion.
Ward councillor Jim McGillivray also added his signature.
The two towns are linked by legendary golf course architect Donald Ross, a Dornoch native who emigrated to the USA in 1899 and who went on to become the head golf professional and golf architect at Pinehurst.
The theme of the agreement is 'Donald Ross: Birthplace to Workplace' and its aim is to "benefit both communities by providing awareness and tourism opportunities surrounding the sport of golf, the history of golf course architecture and the work of Donald Ross.
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Both towns have been working towards cementing the link since a celebration was held at Pinehurst in November last year to mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of Donald Ross. The celebration was attended by representatives from Dornoch.
Provost Murray said the two towns were connected not just through Donald Ross but through Dornoch museum Historylinks.
“We know a lot of Americans from North Carolina are interested in their family trees and exploring their heritage,” he said.
Mayor Strickland said he was honoured and privileged to sign the agreement on behalf of Pinehurst.
As part of the agreement Pinehurst and Dornoch will also work with other organisations including the Donald Ross Society to promote environmental awareness and sustainable golf tourism.
