Patrick Reed is the new Hero Challenge champion, after defeating Tyrrell Hatton in a close-run final at Dundonald Links ahead of the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open.
Over 3,500 fans packed around the specially constructed par three on the 18th hole, as eight of the stars of this week’s Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open gathered for the exciting one-hole knockout contest.
American star Reed emerged victorious after three head-to-head rounds, triumphing over a field that also included The Open Champion Henrik Stenson, reigning Hero Challenge Champion Alex Levy, home favourite Russell Knox, world number 18 Matt Kuchar, India’s number one Anirban Lahiri and two-time European Tour winner Rafa Cabrera Bello.
Both Reed and Hatton struck fine tee shots as they faced off in the final on a beautiful evening on the North Ayrshire coast. Hatton looked confident after hitting his shot to within ten feet, but Ryder Cup star Reed went even better, with a shot measured at four feet seven inches from the pin, and he had his hands on the trophy after Hatton failed to hole his putt.
Reed said: “Any time you can hit some quality golf shots and have some fun with the fans is always a lot of fun. Playing against some of my fellow Ryder Cuppers made it feel like 2016 all over again.”
Television hosts Vernon Kay and Kirsty Gallacher presented the action, which also included a celebrity nearest the pin shoot out, with former Westlife singer Brian McFadden emerging victorious over BBC breakfast presenter Naga Munchetty, actor James Nesbitt and former Scotland rugby player and Strictly Come Dancing star Thom Evans.
The event was broadcast live on Sky Sports as well as across the European Tour’s global broadcast platform and on www.europeantour.com
The Hero Challenge made its debut at last year’s British Masters supported by Sky Sports, as Frenchman Levy triumphed in the sudden-death shoot-out hole under floodlights and in front of 3,000 fans.
Following that successful opening event, the Hero Challenge has returned with three editions in 2017, firstly at this week’s Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open, before returning to the British Masters supported by Sky Sports at Close House and then finishing at the DP World Tour Championship at Jumeirah Golf Estates.
As well as a world-class field competing inside the ropes at Dundonald Links, the Hero Challenge is part of a variety of entertainment options for spectators to enjoy outside the ropes, including a free American Golf show, live bands on Friday and Saturday evenings, a host of family entertainment and a wide selection of food from local suppliers.
There are also plenty of fun activities to support the tournament charities Gillian’s Saltire Appeal and Maggie’s, including Tartan Friday on July 14, with spot prizes for the best tartan outfits.
Twilight tickets are now available for just £15, while adult day tickets start at just £30 and include free entry to the Ladies Scottish Open on July 27-30.
Get tickets* – including official hospitality packages – at www.aamscottishopen.com/tickets
*Under-16s are admitted free of charge when accompanied by an adult.
European Tour www.europeantour.com