Eric Walker wins Midland Alliance

at Charleton with a two-under 69

The Midland Golfers Alliance circuit got underway after the midwinter break with a competition, sponsored by Fraser Bros (Tyres) at Charleton Golf Course in Fife.
Winner of the scratch prize was Burntisland assistant professional Eric Walker with a two-under-par 69.
There was a tie for first handicap prize between Alistair Mason (Thornton) (6) and Chris Westland (Alloa) (9), both returning net 70s.
Alistair also helped his team of Guy Mathieson (Dunnikier Park) (8) and Graham Milne (Aberdour) (5) to the best team award with a net score of 62
LEADING SCRATCH
69 E Walker (Burntisland) ap.
71 T McLevy (Blairgowrie).
73 G Mackie (Ladybank).
75 A Lockhart (Ladybank) ap.
76 M Fraser (Leven Thistle), A Mason (Thornton).
77 P Brookes (Pitreavie) p, D Anderson (Blairgowrie), R Stewart (Tulliallan), G Milne (Aberdour).
78 S Rettie (Stirling Golf Sudio) p, R McDonald (Monifieth), D Cameron (Pitlochry), M Niven (Alloa), D Mitchell (Panmure).
LEADING HANDICAP
70 A Mason (Thornton) (6), C Westland (Alloa) (9).
71 D Anderson (Blairgowrie) (6).
72 D Black (Dunfermline) (12), G Mackie (Ladybank) (1), G Milne (Aberdour) (5), T McLevy (Blairgowrie) (+1).
73 G Cant (Monifieth) (9).
74 D Cameron (Pitlochry) (4), M Niven (Alloa) (4), R McDonald (Monifieth) (4), M Fraser (Leven Thistle) (2), D Mitchell (Panmure) (4), J Ward (Carnoustie) (9).

FRASER BROS (Tyres) TEAM COMPETITION
Winners
62 A Mason (Thornton) (6), G Mathieson (Dunnikier Park) (8) & G Milne (Aberdour) (5).

Qualifiers for the JTC Kitchens Midland Golfer’s Alliance Championship in April at Pitlochry
G Mackie (Ladybank)
M Fraser (Leven Thistle)
A Mason (Thornton)

Arnold Palmer to attend KPMG Golf

Business Form at Celtic Manor

PRESS RELEASE

Arnold Palmer, world famous sportsman, iconic golfer, business executive and talented golf course designer, will attend the sixth annual KPMG Golf Business Forum at Celtic Manor Resort, Wales from May 4 to 6.

He will receive the conference’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

Arnie, as he is affectionately known to sports fans across the globe, was voted ‘Athlete of the Decade’ for the 1960s, a time when his popularity and success reached heights never seen before in world sport.

Before, during and after that great decade, he amassed 92 championships in professional competition, including seven Majors. He also participated in seven Ryder Cup Matches, six times as a player, successfully captaining the side in 1963, and again as a non-playing captain in 1975.

On May 5, Arnold Palmer will be recognised for his lifetime commitment to the business and the game of golf and will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award in front of an expected audience of more than 300 international industry professionals at The Celtic Manor Resort, Wales, venue of the 2010 Ryder Cup.

“Arnold Palmer is not only one of the world’s greatest golfing legends, he is also an icon of the international golf business,” said Andrea Sartori, head of KPMG's Golf Advisory Practice in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMA).

“Arnold’s presence at the 2009 Golf Business Forum will make this year’s event exceptionally special and we are privileged not only to be able to present the Lifetime Achievement Award to him in person, but also to have the opportunity to hear insights from one of the golf industry’s pioneers and most revered businessmen.”

The Golf Business Forum, which has established itself as the leading golf business event for EMA, will this year focus on topics relating to financing, development, golf tourism, and design, and will include interactive panel discussions, country focus sessions, key-note presentations from industry experts, and an array of networking opportunities.

For more information about the Golf Business Forum, to register and participate in the Golf Tournament, visit: www.golfbusinessforum.com

Gordon Yates (71) makes good start

to Asia Pacific Amateur Open

Gordon Yates made a good start to the 72-hole Mission Hills Asia Pacific Amateur Open championship at the same Chinese venue that hosts the World Cup.
Gordon had a one-under-par 71 to be one shot behind leader Shingo Ito (Japan).
The Hilton Park player birdied the first but bogeyed the short fifth on his way to the turn in level par.
He got some momentum going with birdies at the long 11th and par-4 12th and looked set to finish at two-under-par until dropping a shot at the par-14 18th.
Ross Kellett (Colville Park) finished with a 76 to be joint 18th in the field of 88 players.
Ross wasn't doing too badly with a birdie at the long 11th and a bogey at the short fifth as he turned in level par 36.
Then things started to go wrong and the inward half cost him 40 shots.
Kellett bogeyed the long 11th and then ran up a triple-bogey 7 at the par-4 12th and also dropped another shot with a 5 at the 17th.
But he did birdie the 18th which both Yates and the leader bogeyed.
Fraser Fotheringham (Nairn), beaten British boys' championship finalist two years ago, did not have the enjoyment of a single bogey in his round of 78 over what is a difficult course.
Fraser had a double bogey 7 at the long sixth and bogeyed the seventh and ninth to be out in 40.
He bogeyed two long holes in an inward 38 - the 11th and the 16th.
LEADERBOARD
Par 72
70 Shingo Ito (Japan).
71 Gordon Yates (Scotland), Ferdinand Aunzo (Philippines).
72 Chi Hsien Hsieh (aipei), Ryan McCarthy (Australia), Wen Ting Wu (Taipei), Alex Christie (England).
Selected scores
76 Ross Kellett (Scotland) (jt 18th).
78 Fraser Fotheringham (Scotland) (jt 35th).
Field of 88 players.

Cheers! Pilsner Urquell and R&A's

five-year Open agreement

PRESS RELEASE ISSUED BY R&A
The R&A and SABMiller plc today announced that they have entered into a long term agreement under which Pilsner Urquell, the iconic beer brand from SABMiller, will become the Official Beer of The Open Championship.

The arrangement is effective from the upcoming 2009 Championship at Turnberry and will last for five years, taking in confirmed future Championships at St Andrews, Royal St George’s and Royal Lytham and St Annes.

Vinod Giri, International Brand Director of SABMiller plc, said, “The heritage, authenticity and premium nature of The Open Championship offer fantastic synergies for Pilsner Urquell. Both brands are the original, uncompromised leaders in their fields and set the gold standard. We are excited by this partnership, and look forward to building a long and successful association with The R&A.”

David Hill, R&A Director of Championships, said: “The R&A is delighted to welcome Pilsner Urquell as the Official Beer of The Open Championship. I’m sure spectators at this year’s Open at Turnberry will be delighted that such an iconic beer is available throughout the Open Championship site.”
The agreement will see Pilsner Urquell served within all public and VIP hospitality facilities at Open championship venues.

In addition, SABMiller Group companies around the world will be able to utilise the association with The Open Championship through advertising, promotions, ticketing and hospitality.
Pilsner Urquell is marketed and distributed in the UK through Miller Brands UK –a subsidiary of SABMiller. The beer has seen impressive growth in the last six months with sales growing in excess of 50% -this is in contrast with the overall UK beer market, which declined by 5% in 2008. Meanwhile, the number of pubs and bars stocking Pilsner Urquell on draught has doubled inthe past year.






Pilsner Urquell is the Original Pilsner from Pilsen. Created in 1842, it gave birth to the pilsner style beers. Still brewed to the same exacting standards, this beer offers the uniquely distinctive full bodied flavour of true pilsner. It is a widely view that once you have discovered and grown to appreciate its taste, it may change your perspective on other beers.

Pilsner Urquell is the flagship brand of SABMiller’s international premium brand portfolio and is distributed in over 40 countries worldwide. SABMillerSABMiller plc is one of the world’s largest brewers with brewing interests and distribution agreements across six continents. The group’s wide portfolio of brands includes premium international beers such asGrolsch, Miller Genuine Draft, Peroni NastroAzzurroand Pilsner Urquell, as well as market-leading local brands such as Aguila, Castle, Miller Lite, Snow and Tyskie.SABMiller is also one of the largest bottlers of Coca-Cola products in the world.In the year ended 31 March 2008, the group reported US$3,639 million in adjusted pre-tax profit andrevenue of US$21,410 million. SABMiller plc is listed on the London and Johannesburg stock exchanges.

This announcement is available on the company website: www.sabmiller.comHigh resolution images are available for the media to view and download free of charge from www.sabmiller.comor www.newscast.co.uk

Miller Brands UKMiller Brands was launched in 2005 and is a subsidiary of SABMiller, one of the world's largest brewers. Miller Brands have assumed responsibility for the development of all SABMiller’s international premium brands across the UK; these include Peroni NastroAzzurro, Pilsner Urquell and Miller Genuine Draft. Through its consistent pricing and distribution discipline, supplemented by engaging marketing activities, Miller Brands is bringing value back into the beer category.

Scot Ross Bain leads Asian Tour

Final Qualifying School

PRESS RELEASE ISSUE BY ASIAN TOUR
Rayong, January 13: Scottish exile Ross Bain blasted a five-under-par 68 for the clubhouse lead in the opening round at the Final Stage of the Asian Tour’s Qualifying School presented by Sports Authority of Thailand today.
Bain, who resides in Dubai, took a one-stroke lead after nailing an eagle, four birdies against a lone bogey at the par-73 St Andrews 2000 course.
The Final Stage is played over five rounds where the first two rounds will be staged at the par-73 St Andrews 2000 and par-72 Rayong Green Valley Country Club. The final three rounds will be held at St Andrews 2000.
Local golfer Pijit Petchkasem, who celebrated his 22nd birthday today, recorded a 69 to lie in lone second place while American Clay Devers, England’s Yasin Ali, Australia’s Matthew Griffin, Colombian Eduardo Herrera and Sweden’s Lars Johansson were among those in the mix in tied third spot after firing matching 70s.
A bush fire at St Andrews 2000's seventh hole had forced a 45min delay today before play was resumed at 4pm. Play at St Andrews 2000 was then stopped at 6:15pm due to darkness. A total of 12 golfers will resume the first round on Wednesday at 7am.
But it was Bain who took advantage of the early morning conditions firing a solid 68.
“I played very well in the first eight holes as I was six under at one point and I couldn’t have asked for a better start. But it was tough and tricky out there,” said Bain, who has been a regular feature on the Asian Tour since 1999.
“I holed an eagle at the (par six 702 yards) fourth hole. I drove it well off the tee followed by a three wood in my second shot. I then used a seven iron from 190 yards out and putted for eagle. That was nice.
“I had a frustrating year in 2008 so I hope this is a sign of better things to come. I’ve been out for here for 10 years and I want to continue playing here as I enjoy it, even if it means coming back to Q-School again,” said Bain, who played in all four rounds at the British Open in 2007.
Birthday boy Pijit believes lady luck was on his side when he shot a steady 69 to lie a stroke behind the leader.
“There was a long delay because of the fire and I thought it would disrupt my concentration but looking at the result, I think it helped me even more as I was steady coming in. I was also quite lucky out there,” said Pijit, with seven amateur wins on the domestic circuit.
American Devers was pleased with his form when he posted a 70 to lie in a tie for third spot.
“I played well. I started on the back nine and I putted solid. This is my third round of golf since November so I’m satisfied with my run today,” said Devers, with two wins on the Asian Tour.
After a solid campaign in the local amateur scene last year, Australia’s number one amateur Matthew Griffin was steady in the opening round at the Rayong Green Valley Country Club firing a 70.
“I’ve just turned professional over the last three months. I’ve enjoyed a good amateur career last year which helped me claim the number one ranking on the amateur list.
“I’m enjoying it so far this week and I’ve heard many good things about the Asian Tour. I went through the amateur ranks with Ashley Hall and Rick Kulacz who have both played on the Asian Tour before so I’m looking forward to shooting more good scores and earn my card for the 2009 season,” said 25-year-old Melbourne-based Griffin, with three amateur wins in 2008.
With five birdies against two bogeys and a double bogey, Singaporean amateur Quincy Quek was pleased with his opening round performance of 71 at Rayong Green Valley Country Club to lie in a tie for 13th place.
“It’s my first time playing at the Asian Tour’s Qualifying School. The reason I decided to try out is because I hope to play on the Asian Tour after my National Service ends. I’ll complete National Service in three months time and since I decided to focus in golf, I wanted to give it a go this week,” said the 21-year-old Quek, who won the 2007 Putra Cup individual title and the 2008 Putra Cup team event. He was also the 2007 Singapore Amateur Closed winner.
“It’s an important step to come to Qualifying School. I’ve spoken to Mardan (mamat) and he said that it would be a good experience for me as I’ve got nothing to lose but all to gain by trying out here this week.
“I had a decent round with five birdies against two bogeys and one double bogey but I’m looking forward to the second round and hopefully better my run,” added Quek.
FIRST ROUND LEADERBOARD

St Andrews 2000 (Thailand), Par 73

68 Ross Bain (Sco).

69 Pijit Petchkasem (Thai).

70 Clay Devers (US), Eduardo Herrera (Col), Ally Mellor (Eng), Yasin Ali (Eng), Lars Johannson (Swe), Matthew Griffin (Aus), Bradley Lamb (Aus), Mitch Tasker (Aus), Michael Foster (Aus), Rafael Ponce (Ecu).

71 Matthew King (Eng), Rohan Blizard (Aus), Simon Dunn (Sco).

Selected scores:

72 John Parry (Eng).

73 Paul Grannell (Eng), Mark Mouland (Wales), Chris Roake (Eng), Craig Smith (Wales).

74 Andrew Marshall (Eng) (jt 63rd).

75 Eddie Barr (Ireland (jt 85th).

76 Steve Parry (Eng) (jt 107th).

77 James Hepworth (Eng).

Field of 189 players.

More information on http://www.asiantour.com/

Dominic Rehaag appointed pro at

China Fleet Country Club

PRESS RELEASE
Dominic Rehaag has been appointed the new golf pro at China Fleet Country Club, Saltash in Cornwall.

Dominic, who grew up in Launceston, started playing golf at his local club aged just 13 and went on to win several county and regional junior events as well as playing for Cornwall Under-16s and Under- 18s.
Dominic, pictured right, turned pro aged 22 and after working at several local clubs joins China Fleet from Tavistock Golf Club. Winner of several West Region PGA pro –am and stroke-play events Dominic was also captain of the Devon PGA in 2003.
On his new appointment Dominic said “I am so lucky to be able to do a job which I enjoy and am passionate about. I like to coach to the individual needs and tailor my coaching to individual requirements. I love helping people play the best golf that they can. I have taught hundreds of golfers of all levels and experience from complete beginners to James Ruth who is currently on the European Tour. ”
Karl Taylor, general manager of China Fleet Country Club, added: “We are delighted to welcome Dominic on to our team. I am sure will be a great asset to the club, our members and in promoting the game.”

Monty and Kim join field for

Johnnie Walker Classic

PRESS RELEASE
American Anthony Kim and Colin Montgomerie have added their illustrious names to the star-studded field for the Johnnie Walker Classic which tees off from February 19 to 22 at The Vines Resort & Country Club in Perth, Western Australia.
The participation of Kim, pictured right, one of golf’s hottest young talents who is currently ranked ninth in the world and Montgomerie, the most prolific British winner in European Tour history, will add strength and depth to the stellar line-up for Asia Pacific's premier luxury golf event which already features the legendary Greg Norman, world No 8 Camilo Villegas, and Englishmen Lee Westwood, ranked 11, colourful Ian Poulter who is 27 in the world and Paul Casey in 42nd spot.
Said US Ryder Cup player Kim: “I am very excited to play in my first Johnnie Walker Classic. I am really enjoying playing in tournaments all around the world and I can’t wait to visit Perth. One of my goals this year is to win my first European Tour title and it would be great to do that in February at the Johnnie Walker Classic."
Commentating on the confirmation of Kim and Montgomerie, David Gates, Global Brand Director for Johnnie Walker, said. “The confirmation of Anthony Kim adds an extra sparkle to this year’s Johnnie Walker Classic as the 23-year-old is one of the most exciting names in golf at the moment following his two wins on the US PGA Tour and his pivotal role in the America’s Ryder Cup victory last year, in only his second year as a professional.
“Meanwhile Monty, a regular competitor in the 19-year history of the Johnnie Walker Classic, will no doubt be hoping that his support for one of Asia Pacific’s most popular events will reward him with this prestigious title and the iconic Striding Man trophy.”
Born in California of Korean origin, Kim recorded his two victories in 2008 at the Wachovia Championship and the AT&T National in sensational style and then went on to secure fourth spot in the FedEx Cup in only his second year on the US PGA Tour. A highly-decorated amateur who only turned pro in 2006, Kim also earned himself an automatic spot in Paul Azinger’s US Ryder Cup team last September.
At Valhalla he made an impactful debut producing some brilliant play, securing 2.5 points out of 4, and displaying a youthful exuberance on the course that captured the imagination of world golf.
Montgomerie overtook Nick Faldo as the most prolific British winner on The European Tour when he won his 31st Tour title at the European Open at the K Club in Ireland in 2007. Later that year he went on to secure the Omega Mission Hills World Cup in China with compatriot Marc Warren. Only the second European alongside Bernhard Langer to play in five successful Ryder Cup teams, the 45-year-old also holds a record eight European Order of Merit titles.
“I am really looking forward to playing in the 2009 Johnnie Walker Classic in Perth. It is a tournament I always enjoy and yet, it is one that I haven’t managed to win," said Montgomerie.
"I came pretty close when I finished second to Nick Faldo in Singapore in 1993, and have had a few top 10 finishes over the years, but it is certainly a title I would like to have on my C.V. and I hope that this will be the year,” said Montgomerie.
For more information please visit http://www.johnniewalkerclassic.com/