Seve Trophy marred by paltry turnout
LONDON: The long-term future of the Seve Trophy could be at risk after fewer than 5,000 spectators turned up for last week's biennial team competition at Killenard, Ireland.
There is little doubt the hosting Heritage club, the sponsors and Continental Europe captain Seve Ballesteros, whose Amen Corner firm promote the event, were dismayed at the lack of interest, especially since last year's Ryder Cup at nearby K Club attracted around 40,000 fans a day.
The competition, won 16½-11½ by Britain and Ireland, was not helped by the withdrawal of British Open champion Padraig Harrington and the lack of any Irish players.
While the two teams were playing in front of a handful of fans, a big agricultural show nearby attracted thousands of spectators.
Britain and Ireland stalwart Colin Montgomerie voiced his displeasure at the poor Seve Trophy attendance.
“We need to get the ploughing championship over and get all the farmers to come and support us,” Montgomerie told reporters.
“I think (the lack of an Irishman in the team) has had a slight effect but then there would be 10,000 watching him and still only 24 watching me.” – Reuters
No comments:
Post a Comment