The St Andrews Links Trust has, for the first time in its 600-year history, agreed a global partnership deal, with insurer Allianz Group. The three-year agreement is “aimed at strengthening the brands and profiles of the two organisations”.

Allianz will sponsor the annual St Andrews Links Trophy amateur golf tournament and will support the work of the Links Trust in maintaining the courses and coastline. An Allianz Tournament is also planned at The Castle Course, the David McLay Kidd design that opened in 2008.

Alan McGregor, CEO St Andrews Links Trust, commented, “This is a ground-breaking move for St Andrews Links and we are delighted to be partnering with an organisation that, like our own, combines heritage with dedication to excellence. Golf is becoming very popular around the world and working closely with Allianz will ensure we welcome many more people from many new countries to the 'Home of Golf'.”

A “state-of-the-art microsite” is now live at www.allianz.com/sal, designed to allow visitors to experience the unique spirit of the Links online.