DGC to host $2.5 million Indian Masters

DUBAI, July 15: Delhi Golf Club will host the $2.5 million Indian Masters, the first ever European Tour sanctioned event to come to the country, in February next year.
"A delegation of 'golf in DUBAI' held detailed discussions with senior Indian golf officials before deciding on DGC to be the venue of their tournament," a statement from the event promoters said on Sunday.
The Indian Masters, to be held from February 7 to 10, will be the richest golf event ever to be held in India.
"We couldn't have asked for a better venue than the DGC which stands in perfect harmony with the old and the new, like the historic city itself," Mohammed Juman Buamaim, CEO of Golf in Dubai, said.
Perhaps the only one in the world dotted with ancient monuments, the Delhi Golf Club course is also a sanctuary for hundreds of species of birds.
"Playing in the midst of historic monuments, there are as many as nine tombs, is one of the biggest charms here. I am confident that the players will return home with fond memories of our course and the city," said Ranji Chaudhri, captain of DGC.
Spread over 179 acres of land - once the burial grounds of the 14th century Lodhi Dynasty - the Delhi Golf Club is the oldest in the capital, established by the British in 1931.
The main par-72, 6,888-yard course - aptly named as the Lodhi course - is home to many professional tournaments, including the Indian Open, part of the prestigious Asian Tour.
Many of the great players of yesteryears such as Peter Thompson, David Graham, Graham Marsh, Payne Stewart, Maurice Bembridge, have relished the challenge and enjoyed playing on the Lodhi Course.
Planted with a variety of over 200 trees, the lush Delhi Course with its sandy loam has produced a rich turf good for the exacting fairway shots.
The DGC also scores for its unbeatable location - it is situated right in the heart of the city, just a short distance away from India Gate.
DGC Fact-file Year of Foundation - 1931
No. of Holes - 18
Distance: Ladies - 6115 yards, Gentlemen - 6888 yards, Par - 72, Designer - Peter Thompson.