By Rawle Toney
The Legends Tour, formerly known as the European Senior Tour, has undergone a rebranding and will be hosting some of the world’s top golfers in Barbados at the picturesque Apes Hill Barbados Golf Resort.
The event, which will run from May 3-5, will see over 70 esteemed golfers, including current and former professional players as well as Ryder Cup captains, gathering at the facility for the tournament which will be hosted by Ian Woosnam, the 1991 Masters Champion.
Presently, the minimum purse stands at US $500,000, with the winner currently slated to receive US $75,000. However, organizers have indicated that the prize pool is expected to be increased.
During Tuesday’s launch event at the Apes Hill Golf Resort, the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc (BTMI) was unveiled as the principal sponsor.
Craig Hinds, acting chief executive officer of the BTMI, said the organisation was proud to align itself with the prestigious tournament.
Hinds said the golf tournament complemented their recent multiyear partnership with the PGA Tour and PGA Champions, solidifying Barbados’ commitment to golf and luxury tourism in the sports sector.
The PGA Tour and BTMI entered into a multi-year official marketing partnership in January, designating Barbados’ tourism arm as an official tourism sponsor of the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Champions until 2027.
The agreement also involves various engagements across the PGA Tour landscape.
Michael Campbell, the former US Open Champion, is anticipated to lead a host of top golfers at the Barbados Legends Tour.
“It reflects our dedication to attracting high-value visitors who contribute significantly to our economy and our social well-being. The Legends Tour, coupled with our partnership with the PGA Tour serves as a beacon, illuminating Barbados and as an investable destination,” Hinds said.
The Apes Hill Barbados Golf Resort, designed by renowned golf course architect Ron Kirby and reopened in 2022, offers a par 72 layout spanning 7,041 yards.
Forbes Magazine hailed it as a “travel game changer,” and according to Phil Harrison, CEO of the Legends Tour, bringing the tournament to the Caribbean has been a priority since the event’s rebranding in 2020.
“As well as being a destination worthy of hosting prestigious events, Apes Hill ticks every box when it comes to its facilities, and we feel the venue’s ambition and quality make it a perfect fit for the Legends Tour,” Harrison said.
Meanwhile, Woosnam, a celebrated figure in golf, praised the facility, highlighting its breathtaking views and anticipates the tournament to be one of the highlights on the Legends Tour schedule for 2024.
With the Masters Championship and the 2006 Ryder Cup title to his name, Woosnam promises an unforgettable tournament experience.
“Knowing many of the players on the Tour, I can say firsthand how much they will love the course,” he said.
Jody Addison, Director of Golf at Apes Hill, said the facility was ready to welcome the world’s finest golfers, including the likes of 2005 US Open Champion, Michael Campbell, known for his memorable two-stroke victory over Tiger Woods.
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