The European Seniors Tour will make its first visit to the Atlantic islands of the Azores in March. The Azores Seniors Open 2008 will take place at the Batalha Golf Course from 28th – 30th March 2008.
The Azores, located about two hours flying time and 930 miles from the Portuguese capital of Lisbon, will host the Seniors Tour a week after another Portuguese archipelago, Madeira, hosts The European Tour. The Azores Seniors Open 2008 will carry a prize fund of €325,000 with the winner securing €48,750.
Batalha Golf Course is situated on the island of Sà£o Miguel, the largest of the nine islands which form the Azores, and is one of only three courses in the region. The course is noted for its breathtaking sea views and fascinating scenery though woodland.
Dra. Isabel Barata, Azores tourism minister, expressed, “Golf is certainly a sport which describes the Azores, quality, nature and hospitality. We are very proud to honour the great stars that currently play on the Senior Tour and have developed golf throughout the years. We hope that the Azores become a star destination in the world of golf.”
Carlos Martins, president of Verde Golfe, said, “We are very enthusiastic about hosting the European Senior Tour at our Batalha Golf Course which together with Furnas Golf Club offers a fantastic golf experience for all visitors. The professionals will really enjoy the Batalha design and we look forward to welcoming the great champions of golf.”
Andy Stubbs, managing director of The European Seniors Tour, said, “This is a wonderful opportunity for our members to experience the beautiful islands of the Azores. This event is another early season chance for those players looking for a fast start in the race to the Order of Merit title and the European Seniors Tour would like to thank the Azores Government and Verde Golfe for their support in making this early season event possible.”
The Azores Seniors Open 2008 will be promoted by Matchgolf. Javier Gervas, general manager, commented, “We are very honoured to have the opportunity to collaborate with Verde Golfe and the Tourism Board of the Azores in developing another golf destination within Portugal.”
The Azores Seniors Open 2008 is the latest new destination for the 2008 European Seniors Tour schedule following recent announcements of new events in Poland, Russia and the Czech Republic.
The European Tour www.europeantour.com