The PGAs Champions Trophy of Europe will be a 54-hole, €72,000 tournament, and it will be hosted and sponsored by Turismo Friuli Venezia Giulia, for the purpose of raising the profile of golf and other tourist attractions in their delightful coastal region.
Located within comfortable distance of both Trieste and Venice airports - from where competitors will be transferred - Lignano (pictured) is ideally situated, and with several other excellent courses nearby, the region has every facility required by a golfing destination.
Each of the 30 member countries located in Europe will be invited to nominate their national PGA title-holder or Order of Merit leader to play in this inaugural event, so that the continent's official Champion of Champions will be crowned after three tournament rounds.
In the first tournament of its kind to be staged in Europe, and one that seems assured to become a highly popular and prestigious event, the collection of national champions will be accommodated at the attractive Golf Club Lignano itself.
The groundbreaking ‘Champion of Champions' concept also adds a tempting incentive to each of the PGAs' own national championships by offering the opportunity to go forward to Italy and bid for this prestigious European crown.
"We would like to compliment the PGA of Italy for their foresight in introducing such a worthwhile and attractive championship to the annual schedule for our Full Members," said Ian Randell, chief executive of the PGAs of Europe. "The PGA of Italy's intention is for this to be an on-going, annual event and we will be delighted to support them in this aim.
"It is not, of course, to be regarded as a renewal of the PGAs of Europe's individual stroke play championship. Our efforts to revive this important event are on-going and, as and when we are successful in securing a suitable sponsor, it will be another addition to a tournament schedule that we constantly strive to strengthen for our members."
