Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson and Padraig Harrington were awarded Honorary Degrees by the University of St Andrews in a public ceremony in the town’s Younger Hall along with Johann Rupert, Executive Chairman and CEO of Richemont, on Tuesday July 13th 2010.
Jim Farmer, the present PGA Captain and Honorary Professional to The R&A, was presented with the University Medal.
The trio of champions has won 18 major championships, including 9 British Open titles, over the course of the last half century. The University awarded each of them the degree of Doctor of Laws honoris causa in recognition of their achievements and outstanding contributions to the game of golf.
The degrees were conferred by University Chancellor Sir Menzies Campbell in front of an audience which was estimated at 1,000 and included previous recipients of Honorary Degrees Sir Michael Bonallack and Peter Alliss.
University Principal and Vice-Chancellor Dr Louise Richardson said: “Individually and collectively, Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson and Padraig Harrington exemplify excellence, drive and achievement at the highest levels of professional sport.”
Founded in the 15th century, St Andrews is Scotland’s first university and the third oldest in the English speaking world.
University of St Andrews www.st-andrews.ac.uk