Two-time Major Champion Angel Cabrera, of Argentina, and rising American star Nick Watney will join a stellar field in the JP McManus Invitational Pro-Am at Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort, Co. Limerick, from July 5-6.
Defending champion, Pádraig Harrington and Aston Villa Manager, Martin O’Neill were guests of honour at a media reception where the latest line-up of players was announced.
Cabrera made his Major Championship breakthrough capturing the 2007 US Open Championship at Oakmont Country Club and followed up with a thrilling play-off victory in the 2009 Masters Tournament at Augusta National while Watney is a two time winner on the US PGA Tour.
Currently ranked Number 32 on the Official World Golf Rankings, Cabrera has won more than 20 tournaments worldwide in a hugely successful professional career which was encouraged by his compatriot and former tour player Eduardo Romero. The Argentine was made an honorary member of The European Tour in 2007 in recognition of his US Open success.
Watney is one of an exciting younger generation of American players who have impressed on the US PGA Tour. The 28-year-old Californian claimed a first tour success when winning the 2007 Zurich Classic of New Orleans and confirmed his reputation as one of the emerging talents on tour when adding the 2009 Buick Invitational to his list of honours. Watney is currently ranked 28th in the World.
JP McManus, the tournament host, welcomed the addition of Cabrera and Watney to the World Class field.
He said: “We’re delighted Angel and Nick have both agreed to play in the tournament. Angel is a truly global player who has thrilled golf fans all over the world and Nick is a truly exciting prospect who brings a freshness to the sport."
Players who have committed to playing in the tournament include Jim Furyk, Ernie Els, Lee Westwood, Anthony Kim, Paul Casey, Ian Poulter, Luke Donald, Robert Allenby and Camilo Villegas.
Ireland’s three-time Major champion Pádraig Harrington, the winner of the event in 2005, Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell will head the home challenge.
Jp McManus added: “We are very fortunate to have an outstanding field of top professionals who are giving their time and talent freely to support our tournament.
"We would like to thank the hundreds of volunteers, the organising committee as well as The European Tour, Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort, all our supporters and spectators who have helped make it all happen. We also appreciate the tremendous family and local community support and we look forward to working with everyone at what promises to be two days of world class golf and great fun,"
The aim of the JP McManus Invitational Pro-Am is to support mid-western charities and groups in their work with the underprivileged and disadvantaged. All proceeds are donated in their entirety towards the development of these services.
Spectators can choose from one of eight different coloured “two-day entrance caps” representing Ireland, Munster Rugby and each of the Munster counties.
At a cost of €50 each they can be purchased from the website onwww.jpmcmanusproam.comor at selected retail outlets.
