Play Championship course in hotel stay at Carnoustie (From Tewkesbury Admag)

Play Championship course in hotel stay at Carnoustie

FINALISTS in the 2006 International Pairs competition will receive an unexpected bonus - they will be staying at the Carnoustie Hotel and playing the first round of the final on the Open Championship course.

The UK competition will still have its finale at St Andrews Bay Golf Resort & Spa, with the second round being held over the renowned Torrance Course.

But, the event will open at the four-star Carnoustie Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, where the gala dinner will also take place.

The legendary links, venue for the 2007 Open, will host club golfers from across England, Wales and Scotland as they battle to secure the title of International Pairs champions.

Ross Honey, event founder, explained: "St Andrews Bay Golf Resort & Spa remains the spiritual home of the International Pairs, but the opportunity to play the first round at Carnoustie and stay at the on-site hotel will be a great bonus."

The UK final takes place between October 9 and 11 when all finalists will be resident at the Carnoustie Hotel.

Semi-finals this year will be played at The Kendleshire - for clubs in the west of England and Wales - Cruden Bay, Monifieth, Montrose, Murcar, Crieff and Aylth.

Qualifying events will be held at golf clubs until September with the winners from each club progressing to the semi-finals.

To register for the International Pairs, which costs £5 per person, clubs should call the competition hotline on 08700 330633 or visit www.internationalpairs.com and prepare for some real Scottish hospitality.