After both tasting success in Turkey last year, Victor Dubuisson and Martin Kaymer ignited proceedings ahead of the Turkish Airlines Open, which is once again being hosted at the luxury Maxx Royal Belek Golf Resort.
In front of thousands of spectators Victor Dubuisson, winner of last years’ inaugural Turkish Airlines Open, challenged double Major champion Martin Kaymer, winner of last years’ Maxx Royal Shootout, in a spectacular target challenge from the balcony of the Maxx Royal Belek Golf Resort; official hotel partner of the Turkish Airlines Open.
Following his maiden European Tour win at the Montgomerie Maxx Royal twelve months ago, it was an enjoyable return to Belek for Victor Dubuisson, who once again tasted victory after setting the Turkish skies ablaze with some stunning wedge play.
The Frenchman hit the final target of the evening, which was placed in the expansive lagoon overlooking the breath-taking white sands of the Belek coastline. The specially constructed targets were placed in the lagoon at distances between 50 – 90 yards, with both competitors taking alternate shots in a match-play format.
The incredible firework and pyrotechnic display that welcomed the players to the stage, and which followed each target being hit, drew gasps of excitement from the on-looking crowd and were a showcase of the luxury and entertainment on offer at one of the world’s most luxurious hotels.
Following his victory, Dubuisson commented, “That was an exciting way to start the week! Both Martin and I had a great time at the Montgomerie Maxx Royal during the first Turkish Airlines Open last year, and to start the week with all of these firworks and floating targets is a special return. Hopefully I can take that wedge play onto the course this week although aiming at flags is a little different to targets in a swimming pool!”
Kaymer added, “This is how golf should be played; under floodlights with fireworks! I think everyone was really impressed with the course and hotel last year, and this year I think it is even better. This is a big week for the European Tour and for us players, and the Maxx Royal is a great venue for the occasion.”
Mehmet Ersoy, CEO of ETStur, owner of Maxx Royal hotels and Voyage hotels, added, “Tonight was a great opportunity to mark our close ties with the European Tour and the Turkish Airlines Open. The Maxx Royal brand is all about offering luxury and tonight we created something unique and luxurious, which is a fitting way to mark the second Turkish Airlines Open at the Montgomerie Maxx Royal. We are honoured to have so many of the world’s best players here this week, and Martin and Victor put on a great show for our guests. We wish both players every success in the Turkish Airlines Open and a winning end to the season.”
Watch the 2014 Maxx Royal Target Challenge here
Montgomerie Maxx Royal course www.montgomeriemaxxroyal.com
Maxx Royal Golf Resort www.maxroyal.com