BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE 2016 edition of the St. Kitts Johnny Walker Open Golf Tournament tees off today (May 14) at the Royal St. Kitts Golf course in Frigate Bay.
The competition, which is in its 35th year, will feature participants from India, Ireland, Wales, England, United States of America and Canada who will add flavour to the 150-strong field that would be representing 15 countries.
Addressing the media at the launch of the tournament at the Royal St. Kitts Golf Course yesterday, President of the Club, Christine Mc Eachrane expressed pleasure at the level of competition expected, noting that the course would be playing "true" because it is in pristine conditions.
“I would also like to say that the golf course is in fabulous condition...the greens are running true and its beautiful conditions. So we look forward to a very, very, very good weekend.”
She noted that among the participants, only five are female.
Head groundsman Joel Mc Clellan explained that this year’s tournament would be an open medal play format where each participant has a handicap to start with.
The 2016 Tournament will see participants competing in the Championship Division - Men and Women Categories, Seniors Division and a Super Seniors Division.
He pointed out that they have seen a number of repeat players coming from islands throughout the region and also from the USA.
“They are coming back here because of the wonderful product that is on offer here at the Royal St. Kitts Golf Club.”
Throughout the 34-year history of the tournament, players from the Federation have won the event 28 times.
Trophies and other incentives are up for grabs as defending champion Trevor Levine looks to retain his crown against the loaded field.
Action got underway at 7:00 a.m. with the first ball being struck from the first tee.
