George O’Grady, Chief Executive of The European Tour, joined Christian and Gaston Barras, the driving force behind the Omega European Masters, Stephen Urquhart, President of Omega SA, Angel Gallardo, Vice-Chairman of the European Tour, Tournament Director David Probyn, Tour Marketing Director, Scott Kelly and Tournament Promoter, Yves Mittaz, to celebrate the tournament’s exceptional history and the on-going success of this unique event at Crans-sur-Sierre Golf Club.
The spectacular venue has hosted this event every year since 1948, becoming part of The European Tour International Schedule upon the formation of the Tour in 1972.
Gaston Barras has been President of the Organising Committee of the European Masters since 1964, and he helped initiate the course changes which were introduced this year by Tournament Organiser Yves Mittaz and his team to widespread praise from The European Tour players and spectators alike.
Mr O’Grady, Mr Barras, who is an Honorary Life Vice President of The European Tour, together with all those present, also took a moment to remember Jimmy Patiño, a member of Crans-sur-Sierre for more than 50 years, who died earlier this year.
Patiño, who was also an Honorary Life Vice President of The European Tour, was also the owner of Valderrama Golf Club and the visionary behind the venue hosting The 1997 Ryder Cup.
O'Grady commented, "For the European Tour to visit such an iconic and spectacular setting is a real pleasure and it is outstanding that this venue has held a professional golf tournament every year since the 1948 Swiss Open. All the changes made for this year's Tournament have been warmly received by our members. To return is always a privilege."
