Grand Slam set to return in 2013

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 17: Bermuda should see the PGA Grand Slam of Golf return in 2013.

David Charles, senior director, PGA Championships, told the Bermuda Sun that negotiations are going on this week and should be wrapped up within the next week.

Charles said: “We’re having ongoing discussions with the Minister (Wayne Furbert) and the Department of Tourism with (director of Tourism) Billy Griffith. No decisions have been made at this time. 

“We’re focusing on this year’s event, but as of right now, the 2013 venue is not been determined but we’re having good ongoing discussions with the Department of Tourism.

“We look to finalize within this week while we’re here in Bermuda. We look forward to that.”

Charles said this year’s Grand Slam brings forth another star-studded field which should thrill fans.

“We’re excited about the field this year with the great champions that we have. 

“Bubba Watson as Masters champion is going to be very exciting. He won that Masters in excellent style with one of the most spectacular shots that anybody has ever seen — a 40 yard hook to get it on the green and win that playoff.”

He said US Open champion Webb Simpson held off a strong field to claim that title.

“Ernie Els is back after winning his fourth major. We’re glad to have Ernie back. He had that Pink Jacket back in 2010. To see an old guard guy win another major is fantastic. He is really excited to be coming.

“He’s actually in Vegas right now doing the final of his Els for Autism Gold Tournaments.”

He said Keegan Bradley is the first person to take advantage of a rule change from 2011, which allows the defending champion the first chance to be added to the field rather than through a points system.

He said it was really exciting watching Bradley holding off Rory McIlroy, Darren Clarke and Charl Schwartzel.

“Keegan had a great Ryder Cup a few weeks ago. He had the most points on the (American) team. The US didn’t win the Ryder Cup but Keegan’s intensity helped make him the fan favourite. He drew a lot of supporters for the Keegan Bradley style of golf.”

Charles said the ticket packages this year are much better than in the past with two-for-one deals.

Tickets

“Daily tickets are $20 and three days are $50 and for everyone one you buy, you get two tickets. 

“I’d like to see a lot of people out there. A lot of fans cheering on these great Majors champions.”

He said from 11:30am to 2pm at the Washington Mall tickets will be sold. They are also available for purchase at Port Royal Golf Course on any day.

“That offer ends on Sunday. At the gate you won’t get the two-for-one.”

The PGA Grand Slam of Golf features a $1.35 million purse, with the winner receiving $600,000; second place $300,000; third place $250,000; and fourth place $200,000.” 

The Grand Slam will be broadcast with same day coverage on Tuesday and Wednesday next week on TNT (Bermuda CableVision channel 50). It will be shown from 5pm to 8pm on Tuesday and 5pm to 9pm on Wednesday.