ST. ANDREWS, Scotland — Spectators lining the fairways on a rainy morning at St. Andrews proffered autograph books, golf balls, and mini soccer balls for Mark Young to sign as he took part in his final practice round at the British Open.
With a look of part delight, part bemusement, Young obliged.
"I've signed thousands already this week," Young said on Wednesday, before chuckling to himself. "Thing is, people don't even know who I am. It's bonkers."
This 33-year-old Englishman still can't quite believe he's wound up at the home of golf.
For 12 years, Young worked in a factory as a home renovator, manufacturing sun porches or, as they say in Britain, fitting conservatories.