Words: Paul Prendergast
Image: Mark Wilson – Golfplus Media.
| It’s fair to say the Murray River region will be rocking with the news that former (British) Open Champion Cameron Smith has committed to the NSW Open at Murray Downs from 14-17 November. And for his part, it seems the feeling is mutual. “It’s fantastic it is being played in a regional area and I can’t wait to see how many fans are at Murray Downs,” Smith said, “I love supporting Australian golf and when the opportunity arises to play, I want to be there.” His admirable commitment to the local tour begs the question: Will he be the first of several, if not many, big names agreeing to peg it up on the Murray from 14-17 November this year? The prizemoney elevation to $800,000 was already a significant boost to the local tour and Smith’s in will ensure a memorable event at the Peter Thomson design. And with the Open being played right ahead of our two ‘majors’ that both carry DP World Tour status – the Australian PGA at Royal Queensland and the Australian Open at Victoria and Kingston Heath – it would be difficult to imagine that Smith’s signing will be the last. I won’t waste key strokes speculating but with a quality stretch of tournament golf such as this, I’d be very surprised if further big name announcements don’t roll out in due course. Regardless, the Aussie ‘Summer of Golf’ just got an invaluable shot in the arm, courtesy of the affable Queenslander. |
