The European Tour is set to continue the expansion of its International Schedule with a second visit to India in 2008 for the Johnnie Walker Classic.
Following the inaugural Indian Masters at the beginning ofFebruaury, the Johnnie Walker Classic will be played at the Arnold Palmer designed DLF Golf and Country Club in New Delhi, from February 28 – March 2, 2008.
First played in Hong Kong in 1990, the Johnnie Walker Classic broke new ground by becoming the first tournament to be co-sanctioned by The European, Asian and Australasian golf Tours in 1992. The tournament has retained its pioneering spirit, having been played in seven countries at 12 different venues in the past 16 years.
George O'Grady, Chief Executive of The European Tour, said: "We are delighted that India will become the seventh different country to host the Johnnie Walker Classic since it became a tri-sanctioned event in 1992.
"Our Members always enjoy the style and flair which Johnnie Walker brings to their tournament and in the Arnold Palmer-designed DLF Golf & Country Club we have a high quality golf course which will ensure another outstanding edition of the Johnnie Walker Classic."
One of the star attractions at the DLF Golf and Country Club will be World Number 12 Vijay Singh of Fiji, who has confirmed his participation in the 2008 Johnnie Walker Classic.
The former Masters Tournament and US PGA Championship winner is to make his fourth appearance in the Johnnie Walker Classic which has always attracted a star studded field, with past champions including Major winners: Michael Campbell, Fred Couples, Ernie Els, Nick Faldo, Retief Goosen, Greg Norman, Tiger Woods and Ian Woosnam.
Ben Anderson, Global Brand Director for Johnnie Walker, said: “The decision to hold the Johnnie Walker Classic in India for the first time means we will be further adding to the magnificent history of one of Asia’s most established, celebrated and popular golf events.
“Furthermore we are delighted that Vijay has committed himself to playing in the 17th edition of the Johnnie Walker Classic at such an early stage and look forward to confirming many more top international golfers in the coming months to ensure that our event continues its tradition of attracting a high calibre field of players.”
Kyi Hla Han, Executive Chairman, Asian Tour, said: “The Asian Tour welcomes the decision to bring the Johnnie Walker Classic to India for the first time in the tournament’s colourful history. The prestigious event is unique in that it is staged annually at different and exciting venues across the Asia Pacific region and this fits perfectly with the Johnnie Walker philosophy of ‘KEEP WALKING’.
“India is an exciting and growing destination for professional golf and I’m confident the event will create a wonderful buzz for our players and golf fans.”
