John Porteous (soldier) - Porteous and Golf

Porteous and Golf

John Porteous had been an early exponent of the game of golf. It is recorded that in 1724 'A solemn match of golf' between the Hon. Alexander Elphinstone and John Porteous became the first match to be reported in a newspaper. Both players were said to have exhibited great skill, and such was the interest in the match that it was attended by James, Duke of Hamilton and George, Earl of Morton, as well as a large crowd of spectators. The wager was twenty guineas and Elphinstone was the winner of the match.