Former Aberdeen FC manager Sir Alex Ferguson and current Aberdeen FC captain Russell Anderson have both given their backing to the Saltire Energy Paul Lawrie Matchplay that will take place at Murcar Links Golf Club, Aberdeen, from July 30 until August 2, 2015.
The inaugural event, which is the brain child of Aberdeen's own golfing hero, Paul Lawrie, will run for a minimum of three years on The European Tour's Race to Dubai.
Sir Alex, who has a big affinity with the Aberdeen community following his hugely successful stint as the manager of Aberdeen Football Club from 1978 to 1986, commented: "I think it's a fantastic achievement for Paul to be launching a new event on The European Tour and I wish him every success with the tournament.
“Paul has achieved so much in his sport and has given so much back through his Foundation so it is very fitting that he now has a European Tour event named after him. I have a big affiliation to Aberdeen and this is great for the region to have another top sporting event being hosted there."
Russell, who is currently in his second spell at Aberdeen, and who has made 11 appearances in the dark blue of Scotland, said: “I'm delighted to lend my support to Paul as he launches his inaugural event at Murcar. As an ardent Dons supporter Paul is usually the one offering support to the team from the stands at Pittodrie so it's great to be reciprocating.
"To be able to bring such a prestigious tour event to the North East is a significant achievement for Paul but it's also a huge coup for the City. On behalf of everyone at Aberdeen Football Club, I wish Paul every success with the event."
The Saltire Energy Paul Lawrie Matchplay, which has a prize fund of €1million, will pit 64 leading professional players on The Race to Dubai against each other. The North East event will offer up-and-coming players the opportunity to gain vital match play experience on one of Scotland’s top links courses. This is the first time that Paul has hosted an event at the top level of European golf having previously supported the game at grassroots level through the Paul Lawrie Foundation.
Mike Loggie, Chief Executive of Saltire Energy, said: “We are proud to support Paul as he brings this new European Tour event to the Granite City. It is championships such as this which will see Aberdeen recognised for its immense sporting talent on a global stage.
“We are strong advocates of encouraging young people to get more involved in sports through our Saltire in the Community Programme. It is great that the rare Match Play format of this event gives promising golfing professionals the chance to play it on Tour and raise their profiles. This new and exciting golf event is also sure to appeal to sports fans of all ages due to the incentives there are on offer for families.
“Saltire Energy is a long-time supporter of local sports teams and initiatives including Aberdeen Football Club and its Youth Academy. It is great to see the sporting community coming together to show their backing of a new North East tournament.”
Saltire Energy became the sponsor of Aberdeen Football Club (AFC) in June 2014, which saw the Group enter a three year deal to support the first team squad and youth teams. Saltire Energy has been the sponsor of AFC’s youth development programme, AFC Youth Academy, since 2008, and become the sole sponsor in 2014 as part of the agreement.
The Paul Lawrie Foundation was launched in 2001, two years after Paul famously won The 1999 Open Championship at Carnoustie. It provides opportunities for juniors of any age to start playing golf, compete at golf and improve their capabilities to the highest level. The mission of the Foundation is to encourage as many young people to play golf as possible, but also to give youngsters the chance to develop their golf with the Foundation and go on to win on tour, and ultimately, win a Major Championship.
