The R&A Championships Limited has announced that Tonge International, the well-known Southport-based Event Management Company, has retained the contract to install and manage the Exhibition at The Open Championship.
The new three-year contract, valid from this year’s Championship at Royal Troon through to the 2006 Championship at Royal Liverpool, extends an association that started back in 1954 when Tonge International (then known as J.A. Tonge) managed its first Open Exhibition.
“We have an excellent working relationship with Tonge International,” said Angus Farquhar, Commercial Secretary of the R&A. “They have helped greatly in the development and enhancement of both the Exhibition and Merchandise Pavilion over many years.”
The Open Exhibition format has changed considerably in recent years. In 2001, it was divided into two sections, comprising an Exhibition and Official Open Merchandise, covering a combined area of 3,450 square metres. Last year’s exhibitors included some of the biggest names in golf club manufacturing, including Callaway, Cleveland, Nike, Srixon, TaylorMade, Titleist and Wilson.
“It would be fair to say the Exhibition has changed a good deal over the years and I would like to think those changes have been for the better,” said Peter Chalke, Tonge International director. “We are delighted the R&A has decided to renew the contract and look forward to working with them in the years ahead.”
More information about Tonge International is available from Paul Spence at Tonge International on +44 (0)1704 233700 (paulspence@tongeinternational.com)
