Luke Donald admitted that it was a “privilege and an honour” to be tournament host for last week’s hugely successful British Masters supported by Sky Sports – where a number of innovative new initiatives were introduced as part of the European Tour’s drive to bring the game to new audiences.
The Englishman was the second European Tour star to act as tournament host, after Ian Poulter in 2015, and he took on the role with great enthusiasm and fervour.
Donald was heavily involved in the pre-planning and promotion of the tournament, while he was present and willing at several of the off-course initiatives which took place at The Grove during the week.
The all-new Hero Challenge was a massive success on Tuesday night - televised live on Sky Sports and attended by 2,200 spectators - and there were clinics, games and masterclasses for fans of all ages throughout the week - including a bunker lesson from the short game expert.
While Donald did not make the cut at the event, the former European Tour Number One was delighted to play such an integral part in a week which proved a game-changer in many respects – providing a platform for the European Tour to further explore new formats and off-course initiatives.
“The tournament was a big success and Alex (Noren) played like a champion this week,” said Donald, a seven-time winner on the tour.
“It’s been busy – I had a lot of responsibility to promote the event and make it unique. I worked hand in hand with Sky Sports to try bring some innovation to our game and get young people involved that wouldn’t ordinarily be involved.
“We did a good project with some kids, getting them to design the pin flag on 16, things like that. Obviously there was the Hero Challenge on Tuesday - there’s been a lot going but it’s been a fun and successful week.
“If given the chance, of course I would do it again. It’s been a privilege and an honour and if they gave me the opportunity to do it again then I certainly would do it.”
