The Tribune

THE Atlantis resort on Paradise Island is proud to present The Paradise Island Open Golf Tournament at the Ocean Club Golf Course on Saturday and Sunday.

The event was created to support the growth of the game of golf in The Bahamas and raise awareness and funding for the Bahamas Golf Federation’s operations and its efforts to complete the Par 3 course and driving range at the Queen Elizabeth Sports Centre.

The two day, individual stroke play event is open to players in six divisions: Men’s Gross and Net, Men’s Senior (50+), Men’s Super Senior (60+), Ladies’, Ladies’ Senior (50+) and Juniors (under 17).

“We are excited and happy to present this tournament to golfers here in The Bahamas,” said Ed Fields, senior vice president of public affairs for Atlantis.

“We often host tournaments for local charities and civic organisations, but this one is uniquely ours and will boost the sport of golf for Bahamians as well as the federation that supports it. We’ve been working behind the scenes for a while helping to develop the driving range and par 3 course along with the BGF and now this event will provide an opportunity for more people to get involved and help the cause.”

Speaking on behalf Craig Flowers, president of the federation, vice president of the BGF Ambrose Guthro expressed thanks to Atlantis and Ocean Club Golf Course for putting on the fundraiser. “Through the year we support our ladies and juniors and those who travel to represent The Bahamas internationally as well as being on the forefront of handicapping and rules jurisdiction locally. This will greatly assist us in the near future. We are looking forward to a full field and encourage all golfers to come out and support us,” he said.

Robbie Leming, general manager at the golf course, added that the course is in great shape and will provide a fitting stage for local golfers to show off their skills.

“We maintain very high standards here at the golf course, so players should expect a wonderful, high level experience this coming weekend.”

Fields added: “We want to encourage Bahamian golfers to commit to this event and help us grow this? sport. The facilities at the QE Sports Centre will benefit and golfers as a whole will benefit.”