Course Manager’s stunning image of the Aurora Borealis over the Old Course returns as collector’s print
Golf collectors are being given the unique opportunity to purchase one of only 100 limited-edition, signed and numbered prints of ‘The Keeper’s Lights’ – a breathtaking photo of the Aurora Borealis over the Old Course in St Andrews.
The image was taken by Jon Wood, who is the 10th Keeper of the Green in the illustrious history of the Old Course, following lineage from Old Tom Morris. In addition to his greenkeeping expertise, Jon is also an avid amateur photographer who often posts stunning images from the Home of Golf on his social media channels.
During a rare and specifically vivid display of the Aurora Borealis in May 2024, Jon decided to venture to the Old Course in search of capturing something special. Arriving at 2.30am he found himself completely alone under a spectacular sky. The result was a once-in-a-lifetime photo featuring the northern lights above the Swilcan Bridge, with the historic Old Course and town of St Andrews in the background.
In celebration of its one-year anniversary, St Andrews Links Trust, in collaboration with Jon Wood, has produced a collector’s edition of 100 mounted prints, each individually signed and numbered by Jon himself. The exclusive opportunity to purchase one of the most iconic photos ever taken at the Home of Golf is available now via an online ballot, closing at midnight on 18 May. Selected entrants will be able to purchase a print for £100.
All proceeds from this print will be reinvested into the preservation of St Andrews Links, with 5% of the revenue generated being donated to the Greenkeepers Benevolent Fund – the official charity of BIGGA (The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association), that exists to assist current or past members and their dependants, to provide financial support and practical help during difficult times.
Speaking of the image, Jon, who is Course Manager for the Old, New and Jubilee courses at St Andrews Links, said: “I’ve always thought, wouldn’t it be great to have a shot of the aurora over the Swilcan Bridge with the town in the background.
“It was incredible to watch it unfold that evening and to capture that moment was really special. I stayed watching all the way through until sunrise. When I posted the picture last year the response was amazing.
“To be able to combine my love of photography and my passion for the Old Course by releasing this print is fantastic. It makes you feel good to know that you’ve captured something that people really like and I’m delighted the print will be sold to help preserve the Home of Golf and to benefit such a great charity as the Greenkeepers Benevolent Fund.”
To hear Jon share the story of that night in his own words, watch an exclusive video here.
The ballot for a chance to buy the limited-edition signed print is open until midnight on 18 May. To enter the ballot for your chance to own ‘The Keeper’s Lights’, visit https://standrews.com/keeperlights
Note to Editors:
- Jon Wood is the 10th Keeper of the Green at St Andrews and is the Course Manager for the Old, New and Jubilee Courses. Jon previously served as Deputy Course Manager at the Old Course from 2006-2011 before becoming Course Manager at the Castle Course in 2015. He also has previous experience at Trevose, Portmarnock, Doonbeg and Pinehurst.
- The print is mounted, signed, and limited to 100 editions only
- The print measures 458mm x 610mm
- Ballot opens Sunday 11th May 2025, and closes at midnight on Sunday 18th May
- Each print costs £100 and is available only to successful entrants in the draw
About St Andrews Links Trust
St Andrews Links Trust is responsible for the management and maintenance of the seven Links courses at St Andrews, including the world-famous Old Course, host of The Open a record 31 times.
St Andrews Links Trust manages a number of additional facilities including three clubhouses, a golf academy and five retail stores. More than 280,000 rounds are played over the seven courses attracting visitors from around the world to follow in the footsteps of the world’s greatest golfers and become a part of golf’s rich history.
St Andrews Links Trust Media Contact
David Connor
Communications and Marketing Manager
M: +44 (0)7586 709796
Email: david.connor@standrews.com
