Kingston, Jamaica - Plans were officially announced today for the Digicel Jamaica Classic, the segment of the PGA European Seniors Tour the mobile communications giant will host in association with Sony Ericsson. The tournament is set to take place at the picturesque Half Moon Bay Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica from March 19th to the 23rd.
The first international golf tour to be held in Jamaica for many years, this segment of the European Seniors is shaping up to be the highlight of the Caribbean circuit. Jamaican golfer Delroy Cambridge, who has become a household name on the European golf scene after winning two major tournaments last year, has jumped at the chance to compete in his homeland. "I'm really looking forward to it, there is nothing like playing at home" stated Cambridge.
The tournament is structured as a 54-hole professional event and carries the largest prize purse of all the Caribbean tournaments. "We are truly excited to bring this level of international golf back to Jamaica's shores through the PGA European Seniors Tour, one of the most prestigious and recognised events on the world golfing calendar" commented Seamus Lynch, Digicel's CEO. "The impact of golfing events of this magnitude on the tourism product and by extension the economies of countries like Jamaica cannot be overlooked. We are also pleased that Sony Ericsson has jumped in as a sponsor on this event."
The event promoters International Sports Management (ISM) from the UK, specialise in the commercial representation and management of professional sportsmen and women in the fields of golf, cricket, rugby union and football. In addition ISM manages and promotes several high profile professional and amateur golf events - the latest of which is the Digicel Jamaica Classic in association with Sony Ericsson.
In association with ISM, the regional event promoters are Caribbean Sports Marketing (CSM) which is headquartered in Jamaica. CSM brings together several of the key energies and experience behind event management and sports marketing within the Caribbean over the past several years, encompassing all major sports.
One of the highlights of the event will be the 2-day ProAm, which will give the amateurs a chance to win a Chevrolet Avalanche if they hit a hole-in-one. Donated by GM Challenger, the authorized dealers for General Motors here in Jamaica, the vehicle will be on display during the event. The tournament won't stop there. Through sponsors, organizers and the Jamaica Golf Association, junior golfers from around the island will be invited to take part in golf clinics conducted by the tour players. "Giving the young people in Jamaica interested in learning about golf this opportunity is a big part of the value of this event. Allowing our children to learn from golfers at this level will be a priceless experience" explained Gordon Hutchinson Vice President of the Jamaican Golf Association.
In speaking about the tour, Mr. Andy Stubbs, Managing Director European Senior Tours related, "The success of the European Seniors Tour, of which this tournament launches its 12th season of competition, is primarily due to the relaxed atmosphere surrounding all our events. The Seniors Tour has become known as the "Friendly Tour", creating an unforgettable experience both on and off the course for players, sponsors and spectators alike."
This description of Jamaica as the location for this tournament is no doubt the reason why the Jamaica Tourist Board has chosen to be involved as a partner. The Digicel Jamaica Classic will surely enhance Jamaica as a tourist destination and bring people to the country who may have never otherwise visited.
For more information about the Digicel Jamaica Classic contact:
David Brooks - ISM
ism@golfism.net
011-44-1565-832-100
Oliver McIntosh - CSM
golf@imcontent.com
876-366-6566
