Regional Development Agency One NorthEast has joined the bid to bring the Seve Trophy golf tournament to the north east of England. Discussions are taking place to secure the 2005 three-day series of matches.
Attracting the event to the north east is a key aim of the sporting element of the Region’s bid for European Capital of Culture 2008 status. One NorthEast has now thrown its weight behind the Seve Trophy bid, offering to provide financial backing in an effort to secure the tournament.
The Seve Trophy is highlighted in the Newcastle/Gateshead bid as part of the proposed European Challenge Games. Developing from 2003 onwards, there will be three new televised international sporting events – teams of European all star sportsmen and women will take on the might of the USA in a major athletics event; challenge the best of the African nations in an international road race and face Great Britain and Ireland in The Seve Trophy.
Amen Corner and Mediapro, both organisers and promoters of the event, have declared the north east as a major contender to land the 2005 trophy. Welcoming the bid trophy, Seve Ballesteros said, “I wish Newcastle/Gateshead all the best in its bid to become the 2008 Capital of Culture and deeply appreciate their consideration of the Seve Trophy in order to enhance their project.
A report commissioned into the benefits of securing the tournament has estimated a £10m boost to the regional economy.
Mark Henderson, director of operations at One NorthEast, said, “We have held positive discussions with tournament representatives to secure this top event for the North East.
“As well as the economic benefits for the region of hosting this event, the tournament would further boost the outstanding Newcastle Gateshead bid to win European Capital of Culture status in 2008.
“The Seve Trophy is a wonderful event for spectators and players alike. It would undoubtedly be the greatest golf tournament ever to be staged in the north east giving the people of our region the chance to see the world’s best players on their own doorstep.”
Sir Ian Wrigglesworth, chairman of the Newcastle/Gateshead Initiative, commented, “We said the region would bid for the Seve Trophy when we submitted the Newcastle/Gateshead bid to the DCMS in April last year.
“I’m delighted that with the support of One NorthEast we are already a step nearer to achieving another world-class event for the region – and keeping another promise we made in the Newcastle/Gateshead bid.”
As yet, no specific course has been identified as a possible host for the Seve Trophy. The North East’s best courses and hotels could be asked to put together bids to host the tournament if the Region is given the green light to stage it. A decision on the venue for the 2005 tournament is expected in mid summer.
For further information please contact:
Gordon Arnott, senior press officer, One NorthEast
Tel: (0191) 229 6309
Fax (0191) 229 6234
Mobile: 07713 317883