Ernie Els confirms participation in Indian Masters Golf

New Delhi, Oct 12 (UNI) The inaugural EMAAR-MGF Indian Masters Golf has got a prized catch in former world number one Ernie Els with the South African confirming particiaption for the February 4-10 event.

''It's a journey that is an absolute must for me on my list of places to play competitively around the world, and to be a part of the inaugural EMAAR-MGF Indian Masters is very special,'' the six-foot-three-inch tall multiple major winner said.

''It's part of our responsibility as the world's best players to take the game forward internationally in a way that promotes participation,'' he said in a statement.

Ernie is no stranger to logging air miles in support of the game and spawning the growth of golf by playing new tournaments in burgeoning markets.

India's top golfer Jeev Milkha Singh and top pros like Thomas Bjorn, Lee Westwood and Colin Montgomerie are reportedly interested to tee off in the European Tour event to be held at Delhi Golf Club with the help of Indian Golf Union, the country's top body of amateur golfers.

Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice-chairman and CEO of golf in Dubai, who are the organisers and promoters of the event, was ecstatic.

''It's a great news for golfing buffs and sponsors that Ernie Els has confirmed to play in this year's inaugural event,'' he said.

''His presence adds weight to any tournament in the world as he commands strong influence over the golf media.

His great play as of late with two top tens in the past two majors shows his game is very strong and that, in turn, provides a great value to the investment made by the sponsors,'' he added.

UNI