Angel Cabrera will return to The De Vere Belfry to defend the Benson and Hedges International Open title from May 8-11 in what will be the 33rd and last Benson and Hedges sponsored tournament.
His one shot victory over Barry Lane twelve months ago was one of the most gripping finales in the history of the Benson and Hedges International Open. Cabrera had to fight off determined challenges from Michaal Campbell, Padraig Harrington, Barry Lane and Montgomerie as the tournament went down to the wire.
The Argentine, who had wowed the crowds with his big hitting and aggressive driving also showed wonderful deft touches around the greens. He held his nerve to par the final hole for a 69 and Lane was unable to make the birdie he required to force a play-off.
A delighted Cabrera said: “It is very valuable to have won here last year in one of the best tournaments in Europe and where there was a strong Ryder Cup field. I am very happy to be returning to The De Vere Belfry as it holds special memories for me.
“I hope to be the first player to retain the title in consecutive years, but I know with a strong field I will have to play well. However, I am also sad that it will be the last ever Benson and Hedges International Open. It is a great tournament and will be missed by me and many of the players. Therefore, I am sure it will be more special for the final winner.“
The tournament, which carries prize money of £1.1 million, has again attracted an elite field including Darren Clarke, Nick Faldo, Colin Montgomerie, Justin Rose and Lee Westwood, plus Ryder Cup heroes Paul McGinley, and Harrington.
Adding to the International flavour will be European Number One Retief Goosen, Thomas Björn and 1991 and 1997 winner Bernhard Langer.
The Benson and Hedges International Open is preceded by the traditional Celebrity Pro-Am on May 7th Wednesday, which will feature stars from the world of show business and sport playing alongside the leading professional golfers.
Plus, to celebrate the final tournament, Benson and Hedges are delighted to welcome back several past Champions for a five-hole competition on Tuesday 6th May. Already confirmed is the first ever winner Tony Jacklin along with Seve Ballesteros, Antonio Garrido, Sandy Lyle, Jack Newton, and Europe’’s victorious Ryder Cup Captain Sam Torrance.
