68 pros for PNG Open

 By KYMLIE KARANI

SIXTY-eight professional golfers will play in the 2013 South Pacific Export PNG Open at the Royal Port Moresby Golf Club.

The tournament tees-off on Wed­nesday, with the final round on Sunday, May 5.

The professional field comes from Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines and more than 80 amateurs from Goroka, Madang and Lae taking part in the 148-member field.

Tournament director Darren Stocks confirmed at a press conference yesterday that preparations were well under way.

“The green pastures are in excellent condition and we are looking forward to hosting this huge event under the newly named Royal Port Moresby Golf Club,” Stocks said.

Organising committee member, Mark Stallard said the tournament was a major event where professionals and amateurs competed for a huge sum of money.

All golfers will be competing for AU$137,000 (K309,048), with the tournament winner taking home AU$20,000 (K45,119).

Defending champion Paul Spargo is among the 148 golfers taking part.

Papua New Guinea’s three professional golfers – Nelson Gabriel, August Peni and Robert Peni – will be playing as well.

Stocks said it would be interesting to see amateurs competing with professionals next week. 

“There are a couple of talented PNG amateurs and we are looking forward to seeing how these players develop,”he said.