A British sporting icon took on a unique challenge in the shadow of an iconic Newcastle landmark when former World Number One golfer Lee Westwood showcased his skills in front of the Tyne Bridge today.
With just three weeks to go until the British Masters supported by Sky Sports returns to the north east of England for the first time in 45 years at Close House, in Heddon-on-the-Wall, tournament host Westwood hit balls into a floating green moored 100 yards out on the river Tyne, with the world-famous bridge as his backdrop.
The Ryder Cup legend was joined by two famous north east faces - triple-jump world record holder Jonathan Edwards and former Newcastle United goalkeeper Steve Harper – for the stunt, which took place at Royal Naval Reserve unit HMS Calliope.
The Tyne Challenge was the latest innovative way Westwood has promoted the British Masters, which takes place at Close House - where he has been the Touring Professional since 2011 - from September 28-October 1, with Edwards and Harper among the celebrities taking part in the Hero Pro-Am on Wednesday September 27.
Last week, Westwood made a special guest appearance at halftime during Newcastle United’s Premier League 3-0 win against West Ham United at St James’ Park, joining former Magpies striker Andrew Cole in a ‘footgolf’ challenge. The city will be the backdrop for the Great North Run on Sunday and later this month it will then welcome another major sporting event when Close House hosts the British Masters, which features an impressive line-up including Masters Champion Danny Willett, defending champion Alex Noren and Major Champions Martin Kaymer, Graeme McDowell and Danny Willett.
Tickets for all four rounds are available tobuy here, along with tickets for the Hero Pro-Am and the Hero Challenge, also featuring Westwood, which takes place on the Tuesday night.
Westwood said: "The Tyne Bridge is an iconic landmark so hitting shots in front of it is a unique way to promote the British Masters. I guess it’s my job to hit greens but they don’t tend to be floating ones, so I was pleased to hit a few on there as it was moving a fair bit!
“We’re getting close to the tournament now – it’s only a few weeks away and everybody is really looking forward to it. It’s great to be holding such as prestigious event in this part of the world and we’re excited to be welcoming everyone to the north east at the end of the month.
“Last week Andrew Cole and I were putting at St James Park and this week I’m hitting balls by the Tyne Bridge, so I’m certainly enjoying the role of tournament host. Ian Poulter has hosted the event, followed by Luke Donald and now it is my turn. It’s good to get the players involved and people have been really supportive. "
“Hopefully everyone will come out and support the tournament. It’s a great opportunity for people in this part of the world to come to Close House and see world class golf on their doorstep.”
Tickets for all four rounds of the tournament from September 28-October 1 can be still bepurchased here, as can tickets for the Hero Pro-Am on Wednesday September 27.
Hospitality packages for The Colt Pavilion are also available for the British Masters supported by Sky Sports. Prices for The Colt Pavilion, which will overlook the 18th hole at Close House, start at £275 + VAT.
For further information or to request a brochure call 01344 840 681 email enquiries@europeantourhospitality.com.
