Opus and The R&A have revealed the planned publication and pre-order release of The Open Opus, which will celebrate the 150th playing of The Open and documents the history of the world’s oldest and most prestigious championship.
The partnership was brokered by TSBA, The R&A’s licensing agent.
The Open Opus will chronicle the evolution of the Championship from its very first playing at Prestwick in 1860 to the present day, culminating in its 150th playing at St Andrews next year.
It will include 150 of the ‘greatest’ moments from The Open carefully selected for inclusion. Action photography including images spanning one-metre wide and several two-metre wide gatefolds will help drive the narrative throughout the 800+ pages, which will also be complemented by exclusively written essays and interviews with many of the sport’s icons and players.
There will also be a Limited Marquee Opus ‘Champions’ Edition of just 150 copies.
“We are excited to see this partnership come to fruition,” commented Jo Edwards, global head of licensing at TSBA Group. “The 150th Open is a momentous occasion in the history of golf; The Open Opus will capture the greatest moments from the Championship in style.
“With exclusive content, stunning photography and quality presentation, coupled with the limited number of copies available, it will become a collector’s edition to cherish.”
Neil Armit, chief commercial officer at The R&A, added: “The Open has produced many memorable moments throughout its revered history and we have worked closely with Opus to capture them in a very special publication that fans of the Championship will be able to enjoy and cherish.
“We are truly excited by this stunning book, which tells the story of golf’s original championship and the greats of the game who have lifted the famous Claret Jug. It is entirely fitting as we look forward to celebrating the 150th playing of The Open over the iconic Old Course at St Andrews next year.”
For Karl Fowler, ceo of Opus, The Open and its rich history is a story that the company is “proud and honoured” to tell.
“It is an exciting project that has been a long time in the making, and could only have been made possible with the passionate collaboration of The R&A,” he commented.
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