Caddie trouble

Caddies have always been looked upon as second-class citizens in the world of professional golf. Travelling by the cheapest means available and open to the mood swings and tempers of pros who are having it tough on the course, their lot is by-and-large a difficult one.

This year's British Open at Carnoustie is no different. Before a ball was struck on Thursday, the caddies were in revolt. Their caddieshack was situated in a car park without proper washing or toilet facilities and their meal allowance was just £5 per day, barely enough to buy an on course hamburger. The meal allowance was not applicable on practice days which forced the caddies to remove their player bibs in protest.

Another group of caddies was infuriated when Carnoustie Hotel owner Michael Johnson prevented them from eating sandwiches outside the clubhouse. These are the people on whom the players depend for yardage and occasional advice, particularly on an unforgiving course such as Carnoustie.

"The way caddies are regarded here is a disgrace," said European Tour Caddies Committee member Mick Donaghy.