Carnoustie caddies leading the way with on-course lifesaving skills
Carnoustie golf caddies are leading the way in a new initiative to deliver lifesaving help in emergency situations on the course. The Angus venue has set a new benchmark in the 100 Hearts initiative.
The programme was inspired by a similar concept in the United States to train caddies in lifesaving CPR and defibrillator skills. Carnoustie Golf Links’ caddies scheme is believed to be the first of its kind in the UK.
The Links set out to train 100 caddies ahead of the 2026 season getting into full swing. But that target has already been significantly bettered, with 219 caddies now equipped with the vital response skills.
Every trained caddie has been issued a distinctive bib bearing a heart logo, making them instantly recognisable to members, guests and fellow staff in any emergency situation.
Head of operations Claire Lornie said:
“At Carnoustie Golf Links we have always been proud to lead the way in new initiatives.
“With that in mind, we’re incredibly proud of how the team has embraced 100 Hearts.
“Our caddies are often at the heart of a golfer’s experience here at Carnoustie and they take great pride in their role.
“Being equipped with CPR and AED training adds another important dimension to that. We’re so pleased with their commitment to this initiative.”
Carnoustie’s caddie master now aims to offer at least one CPR and AED-trained caddie in every fourball wherever possible. The aim is to ensure life-saving help could be just yards away at any moment during a round.
British Heart Foundation data indicates more than 30,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur annually in the UK. Fewer than 1 in 10 people survive. Early CPR can more than double survival chances. And rapid access to a defibrillator can be the difference between life and death.
In addition to the trained caddies, there are also several defibs located throughout Carnoustie Golf Links.
Ms Lornie added:
“To exceed our original target so quickly is a fantastic achievement.
“It reflects the commitment of our caddies to not only deliver a great golfing experience, but ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone who plays on our courses.”
The programme comes as Carnoustie bosses revealed major investment in the drive to see the return of The Open to Angus.
Carnoustie Golf Heritage and Hospitality Group Limited (CGHH) is to make a multi-million-pound investment in Carnoustie Golf Hotel.
Plans under consideration include adding additional bedrooms to the hotel which the group acquired in 2023 for almost £10m.
This article appeared in the Courier on 17 June 2026