Classic shaping up for big year

Jennifer Jones, Justin Maker and Simon Sanderson at Capricorn Resort Yeppoon.

PICTURE SUPPLIED

THE Pat O’Driscoll Real Estate Tropical Auto Group Golf Classic picked up the awards for 2009 and now it is set for a repeat this year.

Golf’s Tournament of the Year has been assured of financial backing with the main sponsors again supporting the prestigious event.

Top amateurs and professionals from throughout Australia will be back on the Capricorn Resort fairways and greens again this year to compete in the $100,000 prize purse classic.

The 12-time PGA award-winning event was given its most recent accolade this week when it was awarded the Tournament of the Year at the recent PGA Awards in Brisbane.

“Recent rainfall should ensure we present our courses in superb conditions for the upcoming classic which continues to have a huge amount of support from local business and players alike,” Resort general manager Justin Boydell said.

“This event would not be possible without the valuable support of our sponsors.

“I think this is a positive reflection of our region’s strengths and I look forward to hosting another spectacular classic.”

Golf operations manager Simon Sanderson is looking forward to Justin Maker returning to defend his title.

“It was fantastic for the region to see yet another local boy taking out the event.

“Justin was the last professional to get a start literally waiting until the morning of the tournament before his place was confirmed,” he said.

In keeping with the junior theme Simon has been working closely with the PGA to bring a junior angle to the Classic.

“At this year’s classic we are really looking at providing off-course entertainment for juniors with opportunities to meet their professional role models,” he said.

The Pat O’Driscoll Real Estate Tropical Auto Group Golf Classic will be held from July 21 to 25.

“I think this is a positive reflection of our region’s strengths and I look forward to hosting another spectacular Classic.”