Barack Obama charms golfing crowds during round at St Andrews
The former US president is in Scotland to address a charity dinner.
Former US president Barack Obama has teed off his first visit to Scotland with a round of golf in St Andrews.
Mr Obama could not resist a game on the Old Course at the home of golf in Fife before a speech in front of politicians and business leaders at a charity dinner in Edinburgh.
Philanthropist Sir Tom Hunter invited the former president to address the evening event, and praised his golfing skills after joining him for his round.
He told Press Association Scotland: “He played great, I don’t play golf so I was simply doing the drinks and driving the buggy, but it was great fun.
“That was the very first time I’ve met him, he was very cool.
“There was a lot of interest (in St Andrews) but he was pretty relaxed and spoke to everybody. Who wouldn’t enjoy Scotland on a day like this? It’s brilliant to have him here.”
Despite heavy security, Mr Obama wandered over to the crowds who had been following him on the course and shook hands with spectators before returning to his game.
The Old Course was not closed off to other players at the time and was being used by members of the public.
Sir Tom added: “I first wanted to get president Obama here when I saw his inauguration in 2009.
“It was a rainy day in Scotland and I was just blown away by his speech and his message of hope, and I just thought it would be great to have him in Scotland.
“After he left office in January we made the invitation. This event is all about having an inspirational speaker and, with regards to fundraising, we’re hopefully going to help about 300 children’s charities.”
Mr Obama, who served eight years in the White House, addressed business leaders and took part in a Q&A at the evening event organised by Sir Tom’s The Hunter Foundation.
A crowd lined the street amid a large police presence outside the Edinburgh International Conference Centre to try and catch a glimpse of Mr Obama at the charity event, but it is thought he arrived by a back entrance.
Those in attendance at the dinner included Scottish political leaders Nicola Sturgeon, Ruth Davidson and Kezia Dugdale, as well as sports star Dame Katherine Grainger, RBS boss Ross McEwan and businessman Sir Ian Wood.
Profits from the event – where tables started at £5,000 – are to be split between children’s charities in Scotland and the Obama Foundation, set up by the former president and his wife Michelle.
The Hunter Foundation has previously arranged for US politicians and actors, including Bill Clinton, Leonardo DiCaprio and George Clooney, to come to Scotland.
Announcing the visit in April, Sir Tom said: “From the south side of Chicago to the White House has been an epic, historic journey and it will be a true honour to hear that story from the man who made that journey.
“We are both truly proud and delighted to be hosting the 44th president of the United States in Scotland at this event.”
