Sometimes it takes an outisder to point out what a wonderful nation this is

What a year it has been for Scotland.

We’ve had the massively successful Commonwealth Games which regenerated the east end of Glasgow.

Then the eyes of the world were upon us for the Independence referendum where the debate was intelligent, the turnout was massive and the aftermath was largely respectful and peaceful.

We did ourselves proud.

Now Scotland remains the centre of attention as the host of the Ryder Cup at glorious Gleneagles.

I was lucky enough to visit on Friday afternoon and it was a magnificent spectacle. This has to be one of the most beautiful settings for golf in all of the world, especially in the brilliant sunshine, and all the home and overseas visitors saw Scotland at its very best.

Sometimes it takes outsiders to remind us of what an incredible country we live in. A group of Americans told me they were stunned by the scenery and overwhelmed by the warm welcome they received.

The organisational skills required to host such a huge event, and cope with the demands of players and spectators, would make your head spin, but it all seemed to work extremely smoothly, and this is one very classy tournament.

We managed to drag ourselves away from the giant shop and the hospitality to see some actual golf and and I honestly don’t know how these players cope with the pressure of performing one of the toughest of all sports, completely surrounded by passionate crowds and with the cameras recording every twitch and blink.

The hordes are quiet when they need to be, but I could do without all those shouts of “Get in the hole” which the Yanks are so fond of; however, the cheers, applause and whoops and hollers make for a brilliant atmosphere.

What I like about golf in Scotland is that there isn’t the same sort of snobbery that can exist in other parts of the world.

Of course there are notoriously stuffy clubs with long waiting lists which cost a fortune to join, but there are also municipal courses where youngsters and learners can thrash their way round and enjoy playing reasonably cheaply.

I really enjoy having a go on small nine-hole course, or pitch and putt, but I can’t get my head round the fact that one day I can play reasonably well and the next time I go out on the course am truly appalling, even though I haven’t changed anything about my game and the conditions are basically the same.

That’s why it is such a joy to watch the professionals in action, and the coverage on TV has become so incredibly slick and engaging.

I will be watching at home today, knowing whatever the result, Scotland is the real winner.