Scotland's Ryder Cup heroes Colin Montgomerie and Sam Torrance have confirmed they will play in The Diageo Championship at Gleneagles, and joining his fellow countrymen in the field will be the 1999 Open Golf Champion, Paul Lawrie.
The £1.2million Championship will be played from Thursday June 19 to Sunday June 22 June, 2003, on the PGA Centenary Course, Gleneagles, selected venue of The Ryder Cup Matches when the contest returns to Scotland in 2014.
Sam Torrance said; "I love competing at Gleneagles and was particularly pleased with my performance last year (when he finished third). It's great having the opportunity to play again at such an outstanding venue in front of the home crowd and so many close friends and family."
Colin Montgomerie stated; "I am thrilled that the new June date for the Championship has allowed me to fit it into my schedule and support this European Tour tournament in Scotland. It's always a privilege to play in your home country and I'm looking forward to it immensely."
Paul Lawrie said; "I am looking forward to returning to Gleneagles and competing in The Diageo Championship. It's a great golf course and one I find most challenging and enjoyable to play."
Championship Director Graeme Marchbank, said; "It's fantastic to be able to confirm that Sam, Colin and Paul, three of the best golfers to come out of Scotland in the modern era, are to compete in this year's Diageo
Championship at Gleneagles.
“Their commitment to play is a further indication of the growing stature of the Diageo Championship on The European Tour International Schedule. I am sure Paul has particularly fond memories of the tournament, having holed his opening shot in 2000 at the tenth.
“We are looking forward to welcoming each of them back to Gleneagles later this month when, I am confident, they will be warmly received by the knowledgeable Scottish golf spectators."
Tickets for the Diageo Championship at Gleneagles cost £12 daily or £20 season and can be bought in advance by calling 01764 694360 or visiting
www.diageochampionship.com. There is no charge for children under 16 accompanied by an adult.
