Just Stop Oil protestors attempt to disrupt The Open at Royal Liverpool

Just Stop Oil protest disrupts The Open

The second round of The Open Championship at Hoylake has been targeted by a group of Just Stop Oil protestors after an orange flare was let off beside the 17th green.

The four individuals involved were arrested and led away by police in a golf buggy at around 12.20pm, but the incident failed to delay play as orange confetti was cleared by leaf blowers near the edge of the 17th green.

The group of Billy Horschel, Corey Conners and Alex Noren were playing the new par-3 17th at the time. Horschel also lent his assistance in apprehending one of the protestors, as you can see below. His actions were greeted with widespread applause and cheers from the grandstands.

The American declined to speak to the media after his round.

In a statement, the R&A said: “A protestor was quickly apprehended on the 17th hole and is one of four people who have been arrested by the police. Play was not disrupted and we would like to thank the marshals, players and other spectators for their vigilance and understanding as the protestors were removed.”

The incident comes less than 48 hours after R&A Chief Executive Martin Slumbers revealed that a senior figure was targeted by protestors at the 150th Open at St Andrews.

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About the author

Michael Catling
Features Editor

Michael Catling is Today’s Golfer‘s Features Editor and an award-winning journalist who specializes in golf’s Majors and Tours, including DP World, PGA, LPGA, and LIV.

Michael joined Today’s Golfer in 2016 and has traveled the world to attend the game’s biggest events and secure exclusive interviews with dozens of Major champions, including Jack Nicklaus, Jordan Spieth, Tom Watson, Greg Norman, Gary Player, and Justin Thomas.

A former member of Ufford Park and Burghley Park, Michael has been playing golf since he was 11 and currently plays off a handicap of 10.

Away from golf he’s a keen amateur chef and has his own healthy recipes website. He also loves playing squash, going to the gym, and following Chelsea FC.

Michael uses a Ping G driver, Ping G 3-wood, Ping G Crossover 3-iron, Ping G Series irons (4-PW), Ping Glide wedges (52º, 56º, 60º), TaylorMade MySpider Tour Putter, and Srixon AD333 golf ball.

Get in touch with Michael via email and follow him on Twitter.