Harris English's caddie denied UK visa due to past drug arrest.

Harris English's caddie, Eric Larson, has been denied a U.K. visa due to a past drug arrest, forcing English to find a new caddie for the Scottish Open and the Open Championship. Larson spent 10 years in prison for sending cocaine to friends and is now working to obtain an exemption to new Electronic Travel Authority visa rules. English has been trying to help Larson and has reached out to the U.S. Ambassador to the U.K. for assistance.

Harris English, currently ranked 19th in the world and 10th in the U.S. Ryder Cup standings, is facing a significant challenge ahead of the Scottish Open and The Open. His caddie, Eric Larson, has been denied a U.K. visa due to a past drug conviction, complicating English's preparations for the upcoming tournaments.

Larson, who pleaded guilty to sending cocaine to friends in the Midwest 30 years ago, served 10 years and three months in prison and was released in 2006. The U.K. now requires applicants to obtain an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) visa, which Larson has been unable to secure due to his criminal record. English became aware of the issue after tying for fourth at the Travelers Championship three weeks ago and has been actively seeking solutions.

English has reached out to various entities, including the U.S. Ambassador to the U.K., Warren Stephens, and the PGA Tour, to assist Larson in obtaining the necessary visa. Despite these efforts, Larson remains unable to travel to the U.K. for the tournaments, forcing English to find a new caddie for the Scottish Open and The Open. Joe Etter, who has worked for English for over a decade, is currently filling in as Larson's replacement.

The situation highlights the complexities of international travel regulations and their impact on professional sports. Larson's past conviction, although 30 years old, continues to affect his ability to travel to the U.K. English is hopeful that someone will intervene and help Larson secure the necessary visa, but as of now, the situation remains unresolved.

References:
[1] https://www.nbcsports.com/golf/news/harris-englishs-caddie-denied-u-k-visa-over-past-drug-conviction
[2] https://apnews.com/article/harris-english-caddie-harrington-glover-campbell-8d588b8dd8615522fb7c53cb91e5f17c