Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Trump tees off on Scottish golf course

Updated at 5:19 pm on 11 July 2012

Donald Trump struck the first ball on his new golf course in Aberdeen, Scotland, on Tuesday.

The American businessman was piped to the first hole of the shire course and teed off with former Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie.

Work on the course and and clubhouse began in July 2010. They have cost more than £100 million, PA reports.

After cutting a ribbon on the first tee, Mr Trump said:

''When I bought this land almost seven years ago, we said we wanted to make the best course in the world and some people are already saying we have done that.

''I think this is great for golf, and what's great for golf is great for Scotland because it's the home of the game.''

The course will open to the public on Sunday. A series of private events being held this week.

PGA chief executive Sandy Jones and European Tour chief executive George O'Grady said they would work to bring major golf events to the course.

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