The 2011 Avantha Masters has been confirmed for February 17 – 20 next year and will carry an increased prize fund of €1.8million.
The purse is a 20% increase on last year’s, and the event, which is tri-sanctioned by The European Tour, the Asian Tour and the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI), will again take place at the DLF Golf and Country Club, Gurgaon, India.
Gautam Thapar, Chairman and CEO of the Avantha Group, said: “The Avantha Group’s long association with professional golf in India has helped shape the sport in the country. I believe this tri-sanctioned event offers an excellent platform and opportunity for global organisations for their branding and marketing efforts. This is especially significant with Indian professional golfers making their mark in the international circuit.”
George O’Grady, Chief Executive of The European Tour said: “We thank Mr Gautam Thapar and the Avantha Group for their continued support. The increase in prize fund signifies the growth and potential of this tournament and golf in India.”
Kyi Hla Han, Executive Chairman, Asian Tour, said: “This is an exciting opportunity that PGTI and Avantha bring to the Indian golfers. PGTI's commitment to Indian professional golf will ensure that many golfers from India follow in the footsteps of champions such as Jeev Milkha Singh, Arjun Atwal, Jyoti Randhawa and SSP Chowrasia.”
Padamjit Sandhu, Director, PGTI, said: “Strong and focused commitment to professional golf from the Avantha Group continues to generate tremendous positive interest and growth across the region. We are delighted with the prize fund increase for 2011 Avantha Masters and thank Mr Gautam Thapar, Chairman and CEO of the Avantha Group.
“Banking on strong sponsor interests and commitments – with the Avantha Group leading the way – PGTI continues to strengthen its partnerships on the domestic tour, and with the Asian and European Tours to create optimum playing and learning opportunities for Indian professionals. We sincerely appreciate Avantha’s support and look forward to hosting an exciting Avantha Masters in 2011.”
