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Home , 1976 European Tour, 1980 European Tour, 1982 European Tour, 1995 Swedish Open, 2004 European Tour, 2006 European Tour

14th EDITION

« THE 3 TOUR TOURNAMENT » The originality of bringing together professionnals from the 3 tours.

11th - 16th DECEMBER 2007

A TOURNAMENT AMONG THE BEST TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Press Release 3

• 81 Professionnals invited 4

• Previous Champions of the tournament 5

• Visibility of the event 6

• Two Championship courses 7

• Tournament Programme 8

• Professionnals

A - The European Tour 9 - 19

B - The senior Tour 20 - 23

C - The Ladies Tour 24 - 28

• Our Sponsors 29

• Contact 30

2 PRESS RELEASE

MAURITIUS OPEN GOLF 2007 11th-16th December

“The 3 Tour Tournament” The Mauritius Golf Open: The Tradition Continues

The first Mauritius Golf Open took place in 1994 when Constance Belle Mare Plage hosted 30 Profession- als and 60 Amateurs. Since then the event has grown significantly year on year with demand for the prized amateur positions for the Pro Am, Air Mauritius Amateur and Ladies Competition event again being over subscribed.

The amateurs will have the unique opportunity to play with two different professionals in the two day Pro–Am, which is sure to be a memorable experience for those involved.

Once again members from three Professional Tours are being invited. Players from the European, Senior’s and Ladies Tours will grace the fairways at Belle Mare Plage Golf Courses from the 11th to the 16th of December 2007. The organizers of the events are proud to host such a prestigious event, and the luxurious hotel, beach and golf courses provide the ideal setting.

The Mauritius Golf Open provides a unique friendly atmosphere for the Amateurs to relax and play with some of the world’s best golf professionals, past and present. The Professionals also have the chance to unwind at the Belle Mare Plage and Le Prince Maurice after a hectic year on tour.

Ryder Cup team member, , will be returning this year to attempt to capture his first Mauritius Open Title; after his second placing last year. Other name players will include the likes of and Christian Cevaer. Van Philips will be returning this year to defend his title.

Past Champions include Michael McLean who won the inaugural Mauritius Open in 1994 and also in 2000. Other well known players who have also raised the winner trophy at Belle Mare Plage include, Marcello Santi of (1995), of (1996), of (1997), of (1998), of England (1999), Sebastien Delagrange of (2001), of (2002 and 2003), Mile Tunnicliff of England (2004 and 2005) and Van Philips of England (2006). Time will tell if Van can defend his title of Mauritius Open Champion in 2007!

3 81 PROFESSIONNALS INVITED

These will be made up from the following groups:

A. EUROPEAN TOUR & ORGANIZING COMMITTEE INVITATIONS: 53 PLACES Eligibility for European Tour Players: • All past winners of the Mauritius Open will be invited • Players on Tour who have supported the event over the years

Eligibility for Organizing Committee Invitations: • These would normally be used for players who have supported the event or those who are actively engaged in the promotion of Constance Hotels. • This category will also include 4 Mauritian Golf Professionals who will be enrolled following a qualifying round.

B. SENIORS TOUR : 11 PLACES Eligibility • Invitations will be issued to the winners of each Seniors Tour Event in 2007 • Up to five invitations may be issued by the organizing committee

C. LADIES TOUR : 10 PLACES Eligibility • Invitations will be issued to the winners of each Ladies Tour Event in 2007 • Up to five invitations may be issued by the organizing committee

4 PREVIOUS CHAMPIONS SINCE THE BIRTH OF THE OPEN ARE:

• Van PHILIPS (UK) - 2006

• (UK) - 2004 and 2005

• Mark MOULAND (Wales) - 2002 and 2003

• Sébastien DELAGRANGE (France) - 2001

• Michael MC LEAN (UK) - 2000

• Jonathan LOMAS (UK) - 1999

• Rodger DAVIS (AUS) - 1998

• Gordon SHERRY (Scotland) - 1997

• Philip GOLDING (UK) - 1996

• Marcelo SANTI (ITA) - 1995

• Michael MC LEAN (UK) - 1994

5 VISIBILITY OF THIS YEAR’S EVENT

Medias from different European countries (France, , UK, Italy, , ,…) will cover the event, and a 2 hour film produced by the Matchroom company will be shown all over the world in english speaking countries whereas Canal + TV will be pressenting the event in the french speaking countries.

Television: 2007 MAURITIUS GOLF OPEN National visibility: Country: Mauritius - Broadcaster: MBC national TV MBC is the country’s only national TV station reacing 288 000 households

International visibility: 2 hours delayed TV coverage Broadcaster: BSKYB - Territory: UK BSKYB is a satellite and cable station across the UK covering 7,800,000 households.

Broadcaster: The Golf Channel - Territory: USA, , Caribbean Satellite channel broadcasting to 53 million households.

Broadcaster: DSF - Territory: Germany Private TV Sport channel reaching to 32 million German homes.

Broadcaster: ESPNStar TV - Territory: Asia ESPN Star is an encrypted pay satellite channel broadcasting across the whole of Asia to 139 million households.

Broadcaster: Supersport - Territory: South Supersport is a cable and satellite Pay TV station in covering 1.4 million subscribers.

Broadcaster: 7TV - Territory: Russia 7TV is a free terrestrial and cable station broadcasting in 460 cities of Russia to 30 million homes.

Broadcaster: Sport 1 TV - Territory: Hungary Eastern European sports channel reaching 1,540,000 households.

Broadcaster: IKO Kabelteve - Territory: Slovakia, , Romania & Serbia Eastern European cable channel broadcasting to over 3 million households.

Broadcaster: UPC - Territory: Holland UPC is a cable broadcaster available in the .

Broadcaster: Viasat - Territory: Sweden, , Satellite and cable tele

6 CONSTANCE HOTELS GOLF EXPERIENCE

TWO UNIQUE 18-HOLES CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSES

THE LEGEND Opened in January 1994, the LEGEND GOLF was the first of its kind in Mauritius. This 72 / 6018m course, designed by the South African champion , covers 70 hectares in the middle of a former deer reserve who are still roaming at large. Each of the 18 holes has distinctive characteristics and superb fairways culminating in the superb tif dwarf greens, built to US PGA specifications. The 17th is the signature hole of 152m over the tranquil waters of the lagoon.

The players may relax at the Deer Hunter bar and restaurant, hidden away in the middle of a pure and abundant vegetation.

THE Open since 1st November 2002, the LINKS completes the hotel, Constance Belle Mare Plage The Resort. This second 18 holes, par 71 / 5927m, designed by Rodney Wright and , differs greatly from the first as it is inspired by rolling fairways. The Club house offers a bar and restaurant ‘The Swing’ and all the facilities expected along with a beautiful practice fairway overlooking the hills of the Mauritian Landscape.

The Legend and the Links offer a Golf academy with lessons and coaching on the course by professionals and qualified instructors.

The Legend Golf course is reserved exclusively for its clients who can play without green fees and the Links Golf course is opened to non-residents where the use of club car is obligatory.

7 THE WEEK’S PROGRAM

Friday 7th - Monday 10th 08 H 30 – 17 H 00 • Registration and collection of Tournament Pack at the Constance Belle Mare Plage Conference Room.

Monday 10th 18 H 00 • Welcome Cocktail at Constance Belle Mare Plage Main Bar, “Cocktail Bar”.

Tuesday 11th and Wednesday 12th • Pro-Am tournament: 35 TEAMS on each course • Pro-Am consists of a maximum of 70 teams of a 3 amateurs and one professional, unless otherwise requested the PRO will change for the second round . One round will be played on each of the Legend and The links courses.

Wednesday 12th 19 H 00 • Prize Giving Cocktail for the PRO AM at the Indigo Bar of Constance Belle Mare Plage.

Thursday 13th • First Round of the Air Mauritius Amateur Championship on the Links Course. • First Round of the Ladies Competition on the Legend course. • Press conference in the morning (time to be confirmed). • Media’s Cup (in the afternoon).

Friday 14th • First Round of The Mauritius Golf Open on the Legend Course. • Second Round of the Air Mauritius Amateur Championship on the Links Course.

Saturday 15th • Second Round of The Mauritius Golf Open on the Legend Course. • Third Round of the Air Mauritius Amateur Championship on the Links Course. • Second Round of The Ladies Competition on the Links Course.

Sunday 16th • Final round of The Mauritius Golf Open on The Legend Course. 19 h 30 • Prize Giving and Closing Cocktail and Dinner at the Constance Belle Mare Plage followed by a Gala dinner.

8 PROFESSIONALS FOR THE 14TH EDITION

A. THE EUROPEAN TOUR & ORGANIZING COMMITTEE INVITATIONS : 53

ENGLAND: 20 BELGIUM: 1 • Chapman Roger • Theunis Jérôme • Evans Gary • Gee Adam GERMANY: 2 • Golding Philip • Campos Marc • Heath James • Pick Marcel • Hurd Simon • Jones David : 1 • Khan Simon • Austin Richard • Litton Mark (WALES) • Manley Stuart (WALES) AUSTRALIA: 2 • Mason Ben • Caroll Darren • McLean Michael • Keus Chris • Osborne Sam • Price Phillippe (WALES) : 1 • Rock Robert • Lima Jose Filipe • Tunnicliff Miles • Philips Van SOUTH AFRICA: 2 • Wakefield Simon • Hobday Justin • Webster Shaun • Smith Ian • Winchester Roger MADAGASCAR: 2 SCOTLAND: 2 • Ramarozatovo JB • Kelly Lorne • Raveloarison Johary • Sherry Gordon REUNION ISLAND: 2 FRANCE: 16 • Fontaine Didier • Brichignac Edouard • Olivier Morio • Cevaer Christian • Cupillard Frédéric MAURITIUS ISLAND: 2 • Delagrange Sébastien • Seeneevassen Vishnoo • Farry Marc • Narraina Billy • Gillot Richard • Grosset Grange Fred • Havret Grégory • Lucquin Jean François • Moreul Eric • Mork Adrien • Pendaries Marc • Pottier Christophe • Ruste Germain • Schoettel Freddy • Stiefvater Charles Edouard 9 BIOGRAPHIES

ENGLAND

1. Chapman Roger After 18 unbroken years on Tour, was compelled in 1999 to pay his first visit to the since 1981 to regain his card rather than rely on invitations. Finished in 12th place after the six-round marathon. ‘It’s like 108 first holes of the British Open,’ he said candidly, after the nerve-wracking experience. The move paid off as he finally won in his 472nd European Tour start. Beat Padraig Harrington at the second hole of the play-off for the 2000 Rio de Janeiro 500 Years Open. Underwent laser surgery on his eyes after years of wearing glasses. When he turned professional in 1981 it was with an impressive amateur pedigree, including an

Championship and a appearance in 1981 when he beat Hal Sutton twice in one day at Cypress Point. Six times a runner-up on The European Tour before winning in Brazil, then went into the winner’s circle again late in 2000, capturing the Hassan II Trophy in Morocco. Reached the milestone of 500 European Tour appearances in the 2001 Algarve .

2. Evans Gary Will play on The International Schedule on a Medical Extension after missing the second half of the 2005 season because of back and shoulder problems which eventually required surgery. Has been troubled with injury problems on and off in his career and indeed in his early professional days, he suffered from a persistent wrist injury which necessitated soft tissue reconstruction surgery in 1994. A top amateur, he won two Lytham Trophy titles and the English Amateur Championship twice before turning professional in 1991. Shot the lowest round of his professional career to date in the first round of the 1999 - a ten un- der par 62. Enjoyed his best season since turning professional when he finished 21st on the 2002 Order of Merit. Undoubted highlight came in at where he finished in a tie for fifth place, just one stroke outside the four man play-off, eventually won by . Endeared himself to millions of television viewers around the world with an audacious 50 foot putt for par right across the 17th green before turning to the camera and pronouncing, ‘That one’s for you, Mum!’

3. Gee Adam Turned professional in 2006 after finishing runner-up to Frenchman in at Royal St George’s. Had earlier in the year become the first Englishman since in 2001 to win the prestigious Lake Macquerie Amateur Championship in Australia and his other amateur victories included The Berkshire Trophy in 2005. Represented England from 2004 until turning professional in 2006. Attended the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, from 1999-2002. Finished an impressive joint fourth in The 2007 Golf Championship in only his second start on The European Tour International Schedule. 10

BIOGRAPHIES

4. Golding Philip Completed an emotionally charged maiden victory in the 2003 at , birdieing the final hole to pip by a shot and win for the first time on his 201st European Tour outing. Before then, he had been notable for the wrong reason, namely his record attendance at the Qualifying School, his visit in November 2002 being his 16th visit. Almost did not go after the disappointment of narrowly missing out on his Tour card when he finished 119th on the Order of Merit, but was persuaded by wife Sally to make the trip to northern . Enjoyed two top ten finishes in 2005 to claim 77th spot on the Order of Merit. Was a promising young cricketer, who played for Middlesex Colts, but switched to golf and became an assistant at Arkley in his home county of Hertfordshire after turning professional in 1981.

5. Heath James Turned professional at the end of 2004 following a hugely successful amateur career in which he won the English Amateur Championship and the Lytham Trophy in 2004. Smashed the Lytham Trophy’s previous record score by ten clear strokes and achieved a total score which left him five shots better than ’s winning total in The 1996 Open Championship at Royal Lytham and St Annes. A protégé of Britain’s most successful golfer, , he won the prestigious Faldo Series in 2002 and became the first member of Team Faldo, such was the impression he made on the six time Major winner. Faldo continues to influence his career with help and advice. Joined The European Tour after a successful season on he 2006 where he recorded his maiden professional win at the ECCO Tour Championship in Denmark en route to finishing 12th on the final Rankings

6. Hurd Simon Returns to The European Tour International Schedule in 2005 having come through the Qualifying School. Secured his maiden professional victory on the Challenge Tour with success in the 2002 in Geneva in August, a win which spurred him on to finish sixth in the Rankings and secure a place on The European Tour in 2003. However, he finished the year in 166th place on the Volvo Order of Merit and played the Challenge Tour in 2004. Coached by Stuart Morgan at the Grove, he still seeks advice from fellow Yorkshireman and boyhood hero, , now a Sky TV analyst.

11 BIOGRAPHIES

7. Khan Simon Made his winning breakthrough on The European Tour International Schedule in June 2004 when he came back from four shots behind with seven to play to defeat fellow Englishman at the second hole of a sudden-death play-off for The Celtic Manor . It was just reward for Khan who started the week with a stunning course record 61 at The . Cited the victory of his close friend in the PGA Champion- ship at the previous week as the inspiration for his own victory in Wales. Played consistently well in 2005 with five top ten finishes to his name. Found a level of consistency he had been searching for in 2003 which helped him avoid a third consecutive visit to the Qualifying School and built on that success during 2004 to finish 27th on the Order of Merit, by some way his best finishing position. Inspired to take up golf as a 12 year old after watching win The Open Championship at St Andrews in 1984. Introduced to the game by his grandfather. Played golf for Essex at County level before turning professional at the age of 18. A keen Arsenal FC fan.

8. Litton Mark Trying to make a living out of the PGA European Tour has proved a serious test of Mark’s commit- ment to the sport he has always loved. Ten times since turning pro he has tried to earn his playing card, with success only coming to him on two occasions. But the 33 year-old Welshman refuses to give up on his dream of making it as touring pro.

9. Manley Stuart The former Welsh Amateur Champion and Walker Cup player gained his European Tour card at his second attempt having missed the cut in the Finals in 2003, the year he turned professional. Began playing aged ten at Mountain Ash Golf Club in South Wales with his dad, David. Could have been a footballer as had trials at 16 with Manchester United, Crystal Palace and Luton. Chose a career in golf, starting a four year scholarship at West Florida University in 1998 which was nearly cut short when he broke a knuckle on his right hand in a fall running down a mountain in his native Wales two days before returning to the States for the second semester. Biggest influences on his career to date are Nigel Edwards, his Walker Cup partner and fellow Welshman Marcus Wills who played on The European Tour in 1994 and 1996. Coached by Darren Clark, the head professional at Mountain Ash GC.

12 BIOGRAPHIES

10. Mason Ben Secured his first professional victory at the 2007 Open Mahou de to give himself a great chance of a return to The Europena Tour via the 2007 Challenge Tour Rankings. Finished 168th on the 2004 Order of Merit but successfully gained his playing privileges for 2005 when he came through the Qualifying School, firstly finishing tied eighth at Emporda in Stage Two and then winning the 15th card in the Final Stage at San Roque Club, thanks to a fine closing 68. Also gained his card through the Qualifying School in 2002 and through the Challenge Tour Rankings in 2003 where he finished 15th to take the last automatic place on offer. Started playing at the age of 12 when his father took him to a field near Leeds to hit some balls. Later went to the local municipal club. Grandfather, Fred Mason, was a coach and scout for Leeds United FC in the 1950s and Mason follows the team avidly. Peter Tupling, professional at his club, Sand Moor, was earliest influence but now coached by Gareth Benson. Won 19 caps for England as an ama- teur and reached the semi-finals of the Amateur Championship in 1998.

11. Mclean Michael 12. Osborne Sam

13. Price Philip One of the top golfers to come out of Wales, he has represented his country nine times in the – but it was in another team competition, namely The , that he truly emerged from the shadows. Having qualified in tenth place for The 34th Ryder Cup in 2002, Price made a phenomenal debut at The De Vere Belfry by beating in the final day’s singles to secure an invaluable point for the European cause. The following year he claimed the biggest win of his career when he completed a bold wire-to-wire win in the 2003 Smurfit at The . Prior to that, created a big impact in 2000, finishing runner- up on four occasions, most notably in the WGC-NEC Invitational when he tied second behind . Credits his stronger mental approach to his long association with psychologist, Alan Fine. Leading amateur golfer, won his first Algarve Open de Portugal title in 1994 and was named ‘Pontypridd Man of the Year’. After his Ryder Cup heroics, he completed a notable Welsh double by being named ‘Newport Man of the Year’ in honour of his new home town. Earned his US PGA Tour card in 2005 after graduating through the US PGA Tour Qualifying School and finished 157th in his rookie season

13 BIOGRAPHIES

14. Rock Robert Fulfilled his dream of playing on The European Tour when, having taken up Affiliate Membership, he finished 116th on the 2003 Order of Merit from his seven invitations to secure a place on The International Schedule. Rose to prominence from a Midland PGA Professional and teacher at the delightfully named Swingers Golf Centre in Lichfield with impressive perfor- mances in 2003 at the Benson and Hedges International Open and PGA Championship before finishing joint fourth in the and joint ninth in the Russian Open. He lost his playing rights in 2004, when he finished 125th on the Order of Merit, but secured a return to the game’s highest level by taking the second available card at the 2005 Qualifying School and went on to finish 114th in the 2006 Order of Merit.

15. Tunnicliff Miles Came within a whisker of a third European Tour title during 2005 when he lost a play-off to Swe- den’s in the Holden Open. Achieved his first victory in 2002 when he completed one of the most heart-warming maiden European Tour triumphs in history when he won The Great North Open at the De Vere Slaley Hall. The victory came only a fortnight after he lost his inspirational mother Pam to cancer. Two days before she died she told Tunnicliff to go and win a tournament for her, the raw emotion was therefore understandable when he did just that. Almost exactly two years later he was again in the winners’ enclosure after claiming his second title with victory in the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles. Required nine attempts to reach The European Tour through the Qualifying School process. Grew up in Plymouth and achieved scratch handicap at 16. Studied business manage- ment at college and toured France and Spain for a year before turning professional in 1989.

16. Philips Van One of a dozen first-time winners on the European Tour in 1999. Beat at the first hole of a play-off for the Portuguese Algarve Open. Formerly the most easily identifiable golfer on Tour, wearing shirt and tie courtesy of his then sponsors. Less formal now, but still cuts a dapper figure on the fairways. Unusual first name, Vanslow, has, he says, Romany origins. Once a keen Judo fighter, competing in national championships at Crystal Palace as a 12 year old. Took up golf at age 11 after he and father drove past a pitch-and-putt course. Scratch at 15 and played Walker Cup in 1993. Once penalised 14 strokes in the Carris Trophy after playing seven holes with his father caddying - an offence in the amateur game.

14 BIOGRAPHIES

17. Wakefield Simon Enjoyed his best year on The European Tour by finishing 60th on the 2006 Order of Merit, the pick of his performances being a brace of fourth place finishes at the Madeira Island Open Caixa Geral de Depositos and the Volvo Open. Regained his European Tour card through the Qualify- ing School at the end of 2004 and ensured there would be no return the following year when he finished second to Ernie Els in the BMW Asian Open. Earlier in the year he won the Dimension Data Pro-Am at Sun City in South Africa. Comes from a talented sporting family with his uncle Bob Taylor, the former England Test wicketkeeper. Took up golf at the age of 15 and cut his handicap from 26 to 12 in his first season. By 17 he was off scratch. Enjoys flying and hopes to one day gain a pilot’s licence.

18. Webster Shaun Father, Paul, was a club professional, who introduced his ‘bored’ six year old son to the game. Went to Alabama Community College and won an NCAA title. Captured English Amateur Championship in 1996 and turned professional two years later. Missed card at Qualifying School in 1999 but returned in 2000, just weeks after missing out on winning his card through the Challenge Tour by two places, and won the 23rd card. Was unable to retain his Tour playing rights and played both Challenge Tour and The European Tour in 2002 before returning to the Qualifying School to regain his playing rights by finishing 20th. Another visit to the Qualifying School in 2005 saw him finish sixth and set up another shot at glory on The 2006 European Tour. His 2006 season was another one of disappoint- ment until he decided to play on the Challenge Tour for the final part of the year. That decision paid rich dividends as he earned over €50,000 in the last three events of the year to finish 11th on the Rankings and win another chance on The European Tour.

19. Winchester Roger Former English Amateur Champion, played Number One on the Florida State golf team for three years. Qualified for The European Tour on his first attempt at the Qualifying School but missed out on five subsequent visits. Won Grenoble Tournament on Challenge Tour in 1991 had to wait seven years to win again - the San Paolo Vita Open. Played the last seven holes in five under par to triumph. Credits coach, Nick Bradley, professional at Mill Ride, for success. Played on the Challenge Tour between 1994 and 1998, when he finally achieved his goal of regaining the card he first secured in 1990. Admits that the experience left him flat broke but earned 145,227 (£103,733) in 1999 - more than doubling his entire previous earnings since joining The European Tour a decade earlier

- and 188,362 euro (£112,023) in 2000. Finished 142nd on the Volvo Order of Merit in 2001 but bounced back to take 25th card at the Qualifying School

15 BIOGRAPHIES

SCOTLAND

1. Kelly Lorne 2. Sherry Gordon

FRANCE

1. Brichignac Edouard

2. Cevaer Christian Claimed his maiden European Tour title in 2004 in the Open de España, on his way to a career- best 41st on the Order of Merit. Could not quite reproduce the same form in 2005 but a consistent season saw him finish 106th on the Order of Merit. His consistency manifested itself mostly on the greens where he topped the European Tour Statistics Average Putts per Round category with an average of 27.6 putts from his 76 counting rounds. Born on the island of New Caledonia, became world junior champion at 17 and took a scholarship at Stanford University in California. A radical swing change at the end of 1998 saw him struggle for a few seasons and in 2002, he played only six events as a result of a skiing accident in which he fractured his right elbow joint and damaged ligaments and tendons.

Started 2003 on a Medical Exemption and quickly guaranteed his card for 2004 by finishing tied second in the British Masters before stepping up a further gear in April 2004 with his victory in the Canary Islands.

3. Cupillard Frédéric

16 BIOGRAPHIES

4. Delagrange Sébastien Persuaded by his coach to take up sparring in the gym, in the belief that boxing would add to his aggression on the golf course. Started the routine in December 2000 and appears to have reaped the rewards, winning twice in three weeks on the Challenge Tour in 2001, taking the 5th Aa St Omer Open and the Nykredit Danish Open on his way to sixth spot on the Rankings. Sister, Angelique, is a French international while Sebastien started at age seven and was scratch at 16. In 1992, won the European leg of the Doug Sanders World Boys Championship and finished second in the World event.

5. Farry Marc Introduced to the game of golf at age seven, by his father, a restaurateur. Not enthusiastic at first, but caught the bug seven years later. Turned professional at age 20 and spent the first four years of his career as a teaching professional in Florida. Helped France pull off a shock in 1990 Alfred Dun- hill Cup, beating as the USA went down. Has suffered from back problems on and off during his professional career, but finally made the big breakthrough in 1996 when he won the BMW International Open in . Four top ten finishes in 1999 took him into the top 50 in the Volvo Order of Merit for the only time in 15 years to date on The European Tour. Three consistent seasons since have seen him finish 93rd, 98th and 98th again on the Volvo Order of Merit.

6. Gillot Richard

7. Havret Grégory Won the biggest title of his career when he defeated World Number Three Phil Mickelson in a play-off for The Barclays at Loch Lomond, a victory that secured the final berth in the field for The Open Championship at . Became the second Frenchman to win the title after in 2004. It was not the first time that he had followed in his compatriot’s footsteps. In 2001 he claimed his maiden title in the at Is Molas in Sardinia in 2001, an historic achievement as he followed Levet into the winners’ enclosure that year, the first time two Frenchmen had won in the same season on The European Tour International Schedule. Took up golf at the age of ten after being encouraged by his father, a Parisian vet. Formerly coached by French professional, Benoit Jucoulombier. Off the golf course, one of his more interesting activities was to play a game of football in a bull ring, accompanied by the bull, during a friend’s bachelor party. 17 BIOGRAPHIES

8. Lucquin Jean François Gained his European Tour card by finishing second on the 2002 Challenge Tour Rankings, the high- light of that year being a victory in the Panalpina Banque Commerciale du Maroc Classic at Royal Golf Dar Es Salam, watched by his fiancée, Iris, whom he married in 2003. Despite playing 30 events in 2003, he could only finish 144th on the Order of Merit but regained his playing privi- leges for 2004 when he finished 23rd at the Qualifying School Final Stage. Won the French Youths Championship in 1997 and spent four years on the Challenge Tour before linking up with coach, Benoit Ducoulombier, also a former French Champion. Underlined his potential when sharing third place with Angel Cabrera behind winner Alex Cejka in the 2002 Trophée Lancôme in his native country. Broke into the top 90 on the Order of Merit for the first time in 2006 in 84th position.

9. Mork Adrien Carded the first official score of 59 in the history of The European, Challenge and Seniors Tours during the second round of the 2006 Tikida Hotels Agadir Moroccan Classic, which helped him to his maiden Challenge Tour win. That miraculous performance at the Golf du Soleil in Agadir, when added to his opening round of 63, gave him a 36-hole total of 20 under par 122, and saw him replace Tiger Woods and Frankie Minoza in the Tour’s record books as the holder of lowest open- ing 36-hole score on any of the three Tours. His 20 under par total also eclipsed Ernie Els’s Tour record of the lowest opening 36-hole score in relation to par, while the 19 birdies he produced over the opening two days in Morocco accounted for the most scored by any player over two rounds in the history of all three tours. Went on to record a second Challenge Tour win in 2006, at the OKI Mahou Challenge de España, as he took the 20th and last available European Tour card on offer through the Challenge Tour Rankings.

10. Pendaries Marc First broke on to The European Tour by successfully progressing through the Qualifying School in 1987 and did enough the following season to retain his card. Although he lost it a year later he made another successful visit to the Qualifying School in 1990 but once again finished outside the exempt places the following season and it was not until 2003 that he made it back on Tour again, earning the 25th card at Emporda Golf Club. Turned professional in 1987 after an impressive amateur career which included winning the 1985 NCAA Championship while on a golf scholar- ship in the United States. Plied his trade on the Challenge Tour throughout the 1990s, claiming one victory and coming close to graduating via the Rankings on a number of occasions. Represented France in the World Cup in 1988 and the in 1989.

18 BIOGRAPHIES

11. Pottier Christophe After ten years as a professional Christophe was finally rewarded when he graduated to The European Tour after finishing second in the 2001 Qualifying School Finals. It was the icing on the cake in a season in which he won for the first time on the Challenge Tour, capturing the Skandia PGA Open. Took up the game at the age of 11 when a new course was built near his home but became inspired to take up the game professionally after watching Seve Ballesteros win the Open de France at La Boulie in 1986. Coached by Patrice Amadieu, who also works with Raphael Jacquelin.

BELGIUM Theunis Jérôme

PORTUGAL

1. Lima Jose Filipe - Date of birth: 26/11/1981 Made the step up to The 2004 European Tour with victory in the dual ranking Aa St Omer Open in front of his home fans the week after winning the Segura Viudas Challenge de España, his maiden Challenge Tour title in what was a glorious fortnight for the young Frenchman. Finished the 2004 season in 131st place on the Order of Merit but his win in France gave him an exemption until the end of the 2005 season. Secured his card for 2006 with ease, thanks principally to a third place in front of an excited Portuguese crowd in the de Portugal Caixa Geral de Deposi- tos. Qualified to play on the 2004 Challenge Tour through the the previous season and certainly made the most of his opportunity. Grew up playing golf at Saint-Nom-La-Bretèche, host of the Trophée Lancôme until 2003, where his father worked and was able to play golf at every opportunity with his father as his first coach. Represented France at every level and during the winter of 2000, teamed up with coach Benoit Willemart, a partnership that saw him become the top ranked French amateur at the end 2001. At the end of the 2004 season he adopted his Portuguese mother’s nationality and made his debut for Portugal alongside Antonio Sobrinho in the WGC-Algarve World Cup in Portugal at Vilamoura.

SOUTH AFRICA 1. Hobday Justin - Date of birth: 12/08/1963 Comes from a family with a solid golfing pedigree. His uncle, Simon, won on The European Tour in the seventies while dad, Jonathan, still plays off a handicap of two in his sixties. Always been an avid sportsman and keen rugby player and waterskier. Regards representing South Africa on four occasions as the highlight of his amateur career. Receives a Medical Extension in 2002 following a fracture to his wrist. 19 PROFESSIONALS FOR THE 14TH EDITION

B. THE SENIOR TOUR: 11

ENGLAND: 5 • Bembridge Maurice • Ralph Glenn • Spurgeon Kevin • O’Sullivan Denis • Rhodes Jim

SCOTLAND: 3 • Gray Martin • Miller Mike • Longmuir Bill

FRANCE: 2 • Sallat Jean Pierre • Watine Gery

ITALY: 1 • Cali Guiseppe

20 BIOGRAPHIES

ENGLAND

1. Bembridge Maurice - Date of birth: 21/02/1945 Has won twice on the Seniors Tour - at The 1996 Hippo Open and the 1998 Swedish Seniors Open – and nine times during a successful career on The European Tour in the 1960s and 1970s. Represented Great Britain and in four Ryder Cups between 1969 and 1975. In the 1973 competition he played twice on the final day, halving the morning singles and narrowly losing the afternoon tie on the 18th green. Shared the course record at Augusta National for 12 years after carding a 64 during the 1974 , a record which stood until went one lower in 1986. Won the British Assistants’ Professional Championship in both 1966 and 1967 before embarking on his career on The European Tour. Is a keen birdwatcher and is seldom seen without his pipe.

2.

3. Spurgeon Kevin - Date of birth: 21/04/1955 This popular character has made a sizeable impression in just two years on the European Seniors Tour. After winning the third card at the 2004 Qualifying School, ‘Spurge’, as he is known, went on to win the 2005 Hardys Rookie of the Year Award. Finished 21st on that year’s Order of Merit thanks to six top tens, the highlight coming in the European Senior Masters at Woburn, when he led going into the final round before finishing third behind two former Ryder Cup Captains, and the winner, . Had three more top tens in 2006, en route to 29th place on the Order of Merit. Became a in 1974 after growing up heavily involved in football. His late father, Keith, was the manager of Ajax in the early 1960s and Kevin used to have childhood kick- abouts with a young Johan Cruyff. Competed in the PGA Championship at Wentworth Club on six occasions between 1985 and 2001, while another highlight of his career was finishing joint 14th in The 2001 Celtic Manor Resort Wales Open on The European Tour. Has registered a hole-in-one in each of his two years on the seniors circuit.

4. O’Sullivan Denis

5. Rhodes Jim - Date of birth: 29/01/1946 Become the fifth player to reach 200 events on the European Seniors Tour in October last year when he finished tied 13th at the Estoril Senior Open of Portugal. Registered three top tens during the season en route to 26th place on the Order of Merit, thereby extending a remarkable run that has seen the Englishman secure category one status in every one of his 11 years on the Seniors Tour. Achieved his first stroke play victory in the 2004 Irvine Whitlock Jersey Seniors Classic at La Moye Golf Club after going back to using the putter that brought him victory in the 2001 SSL International/ Sodexho Championship. Revealed that he bought the putter in 1966 and is one of a collection of about 70 he keeps at home. The former club professional at South Staffordshire Golf Club picked up his second win when he cruised to a three stroke success at the 2005 Nigel Mansell Sunseeker Inter- national Classic at Woodbury Park Hotel Golf & Country Club. Off the golf course, he has put a great deal back into the game, both as a past Captain and Chairman of the Midlands PGA. Currently serves on the European Seniors Tour Com- mittee. His wife, Pauline, often for him.

21 BIOGRAPHIES

SCOTLAND

1. Gray Martin - Date of birth: 12/01/1952 Retained full playing rights for the fourth consecutive season after finishing inside the top 30 on the 2006 Order of Merit. The man from Fife has yet to win, finishing runner-up on three occasions, and came within a whisker of his maiden title at The 2005 Mobile Cup when he lost out to playing partner Giuseppe Cali, who made birdie to Gray’s par at the last to win by a stroke. First sprung to prominence when he finished tied second behind at the 2002 Charles Church Scottish Seniors Open, and was also runner-up in the AIB Irish Seniors Open in 2003. Has won numerous events on the Tartan Tour and represented Great Britain and Ireland on three occasions in the PGA Cup, in 1983, 1986 and 1988.

2. Miller Mike - Date of birth: 22/04/1951 Came close to a second Seniors Tour victory in his homeland last September, but a final round of one over par left him tied for third place in the Charles Church Scottish Seniors Open. It proved to be his best result of the year and ensured the Scot finished inside the top 40 on the Order of Merit. Won the Nigel Mansell Classic in 2003 and before joining the Seniors circuit spent several suc- cessful seasons on The European Tour, with his best performances coming at the 1979 Welsh Golf Classic, where he lost in a play-off to Mark James, and in the 1993 Kronenbourg Open, where he finished second. Won once on the Challenge Tour in the 1996 and has also captured several titles on the Tartan Tour in Scotland. Represented Scotland as an amateur before turning professional in 1978 and winning the Sir Rookie of the Year title in 1979

3. Longmuir Bill - Date of birth: 10/06/1953 Returned to the winner’s enclosure after a two year title drought when he won The Midas English Seniors Open at St Mellion, holding off nearest challenger and three-time winner with a super final round of 69 to win by two shots. It was the second win he has had with his son Callum caddieing for him, the previous win having come in 2004 at Scottish Seniors Open. A brilliant ball-striker, he was also second at the Jersey Seniors Open and fourth at the Scandinavian Senior Open. After a disappointing first half of 2006 playing on the US Champions Tour, where his travails with the putter cost him dear, he returned to in impressive fashion with a share of third place at the Bad Ragaz PGA Seniors Open followed by tied seventh at the PGA Seniors Champion- ship and a runner-up finish at the Charles Church Scottish Seniors Open, when he finished a shot behind fellow Scot Sam Torrance. Closed out the year 19th on the Order of Merit following a fourth top ten in six events at the Estoril Senior Open of Portugal. Prior to that captured his fifth European Seniors Tour title when he closed with a brilliant seven under par 64 to win the inaugural Scandinavian Senior Open at Royal Copenhagen Golf Club, a result which helped him finish tenth on the 2005 Order of Merit. From there headed to the 2005 US Champions Tour Qualifying School and captured the sixth fully exempt card. A regular on The European Tour for 16 years between 1976 and 1992 with three runner-up places to his name.

22 BIOGRAPHIES

FRANCE

1. Sallat Jean Pierre - Date of birth: 21/04/1955 This former professional footballer enjoyed an impressive Rookie season on the Seniors Tour, finishing 37rd on the Order of Merit after a serious of solid displays highlighted by his second place finish behind at the Charles Church Scottish Seniors Open. He made it through the 2004 Qualifying School earning the seventh card in the Algarve. Was a professional footballer for 12 years and played for Bordeaux and Le Havre. He retired in 1983 and turned his attention to golf. Quickly got down to a two handicap and turned professional in 1986. Competed on the Challenge Tour from 1991 to 2000 and has played on the Alps Tour and the French domestic circuit, where he has won once. Plays his golf at Golf Club Amiens and when not on the course, he enjoys a game of chess.

2. Watine Gery - Date of birth: 08/08/1953 Built on a solid debut season in 2004 to make his winning breakthrough at the 2005 Nokia 9300 Italian Seniors Open, beating Ireland’s at the first hole of a sudden-death play-off. This victory plus three other top-five finishes steered him to 15th place on the final Order of Merit - 10 places higher than in his Rookie year. Born and raised in Morocco, he first learned to play the game at Dar es Salaam Golf Club at the age of 16. His father was in business in Morocco and it was not until the age of 18 that he moved to France, where he won 25 titles and was ranked the country’s top player in 1981, 1982, 1987 and 1988. Played a number of years on The European Tour, his two best seasons coming in 1981 and 1982 when he was 86th and 79th on the Order of Merit respectively. He also claimed two Challenge Tour events in his home country in 1992 and played in the World Cup and the Alfred Dunhill Cup on three occasions. He coached the Moroccan team from 1993 to 1996 and the French squad from 1997 to 2001 and has also established himself as a course architect with 15 courses in France bearing his signature.

ITALY

1. Cali Giuseppe - Date of birth: 28/09/1952 A regular name on the leaderboards during his three years on the Seniors Tour, the Italian captured his maiden title in 2005 when he won The Mobile Cup at Collingtree Park Golf Club with a birdie on the last to edge out Scotland’s Martin Gray, which helped him to sixth place on the Order of Merit. One of Italy’s most accomplished golfers, he won 12 titles in his homeland and represented his country in four World Cups and four Alfred Dunhill Cups. He was a regular on The European Tour during the late 1980s and early 1990s with his best finishes being tied sixth at the 1990 Lancia Martini Italian Open and the 1991 Fujitsu Mediterranean Open. Tasted success twice on the 1990 Challenge Tour winning the Cerruti Open and the Memorial Olivier Barras. Since then he has continued to participate in tournaments within his home country with his last victory coming at the 1994 Italian Native Open.

23 PROFESSIONALS FOR THE 14TH EDITION

C. THE LADIES TOUR: 10

ENGLAND: 4 • Fairclough Lora • Fischer Kirsty • Hunter Sophie • Wright Laura

SCOTLAND: 1 • Kenny Lynn

FRANCE: 1 • Bourdy Mélodie

BELGIUM: 1 • Tadiotto Lara

ITALY: 2 • Maconi Isabella • Paruscio Barbara

CANADA: 1 • Foong Claudine

24 BIOGRAPHIES

ENGLAND

1. Fairclough Lora - Date of Birth: 26th January 1970

AMATEUR England Girl Champion, England Schools’ Champion 1985. England Intermediate Champion 1989, England Girl and Full International, represented GB&I. in Vagliano Trophy 1989. Northern Champion 1986, 1990.

PROFESSIONAL 2005 Highlights Lora played in 17 events and had a remarkably consistent season. She recorded four top tens (including two runners-up spots) and a further five top twenty finishes. She posted second at the Nykredit Masters in Denmark and T2 at the OTP Bank Ladies Central European Open. She also finished T3 at the KLM Ladies Open and T8 at the Wales Ladies Champion- ship. Lora showed signs of her very best golf in 2005 and a victory in 2006 would come as little surprise.

2004 Highlights Lora played in ten events with her best finish T5 at the Arras Open de France. Also finished T8 at the Ladies at Chart Hills where she set the course record of 64, equalled later the same day by eventual winner . Lora also posted three further top 20s to finish 34th on the OOM.

2003 Highlights Lora played in 13 events during a frustrating season where uncharacteristically missed six cuts. However, she showed good form in the other events and her best finish was T10 at the BT Open and also had three more top 20 placings.

2002 Highlights Played in nine events in 2002 with two top tens. Best finish T8 at the La Perla Italian Open and also place T10 at the P4 Norwegian Masters. Finished 40th on the OOM with 1289.55 points. Played three events on the LPGA earning $9,676.

2001 Highlights Played 11 events recording three top tens and missing only one cut at the Ladies Classic. Fired a course record 8 under par 65 in the first round of the Ladies British Masters at Mottram Hall where she finished tied for seventh, her equal best finish. Also finished seventh in the La Perla Italian Open. Finished 29th on the order of merit with 1744.81 points.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Showed early potential in rookie year with share of 15th place in Haninge where two years later she completed a first tour victory. Three top-10 finishes in 1992 before breakthrough the following year with maiden victory in the IBM Open at Haninge in Sweden. Partnered Dale Reid to victories in the foursomes and fourballs before losing to Kelly Robbins in 1994 Solheim Cup singles at The Greenbrier. Completed two victories in 1995 in Ford Golf Classic and European Masters. Set course record 64 at Chart Hills GC in the final round of the 2004 Ladies English Open, only to be equaled by eventual winner Maria Hjorth.

OTHER VICTORIES 1996 Princess Lalla Meriem Cup, Morocco. 1999 Princess Lalla Meriem Cup.

SOLHEIM CUP - 1994

25 BIOGRAPHIES

2. Fischer Kirsty - Date of Birth 8th November 1979 AMATEUR Kirsty enjoyed a highly successful amateur career and representative honours include England in home Internationals since 1997 in the under 18’s and under 21’s. Was a member of England’s team when they finished runners up at the 1999 European Team Championships, has played in 21 of England’s Nations Cup teams, Vagliano Trophy team member in 2001, England Elite squad member from 1998-2002, GB&I Elite squad 2000-2002, won Chiberta Grand Prix 2000 representing GB&I played for Lancashire Ladies County team from 1998-2002. Turned professional with a handi- cap of +2 at Royal Lytham and St. Annes. Is a member of Pinheiros Altos GC in Quinta do Lago in Portugal.

PERSONAL 172cm tall with strawberry blonde hair and blue eyes. Hobbies include horse riding, sketching, outdoor activities, orienteering and outward bound courses and all other sports. Both her father and grandfather were Scottish Rugby Internationals and her mother an International show jumper. Kirsty has a Duke of Edinburgh award and the ELGA Silver tee award. Works part time in a golf retail business in the Algarve.

3. Hunter Sophie - Date of Birth 25th January 1978 AMATEUR Won Prince of Wales Tournament at Woburn GC

PROFESSIONAL 2006 Highlights Played in five tournaments and made one cut: tied 66th in the Ladies Open of Portugal. Returned to Tour School where she finished tied 27th and earned a full card for the 2007 season.

2005 Highlights Played in 10 events with the best result T28th in the Siemens Austrian Ladies Open. Finished 110th on the Money List and returned to Qualifying School but lost her card for 2006.

2004 Highlights Played in 10 events and finished 122nd on the Money List. Returned to Tour School and won conditional playing privileges for 2005.

PERSONAL Plays left handed, the only player on Tour to do so. 160cm tall with brown hair and brown eyes. Hobbies include music, fitness and socialising. Influenced by Stuart Woodman, David Harding and father Vic Hunter. Achieved nine O levels and 2 A levels at school.

4. Wright Laura - Date of Birth 14th June 1979 AMATEUR Represented England.

PERSONAL 157cm tall with blonde hair and green eyes. Hobbies include , tennis and horse riding.

26

BIOGRAPHIES

FRANCE

1. Bourdy Mélodie - Date of Birth 26th October 1986

AMATEUR U/15 French Champion 2001. Junior European Solheim Cup Team member at Minneapolis in 2002. 2nd at the . French Elite Champion in 2006.

PERSONAL 160cm tall with blue eyes and brown hair. Started to play golf at 6 years old. Brother is European Tour professional Gregory Bourdy. Coached by Cedric Faret. Attached to Golf Bordelais. Has a DUT of Business. Enjoys going to the cinema and spending time with friends.

BELGIUM

1. Tadiotto Lara - Date of Birth 23rd April 1971

PROFESSIONAL 2006 Highlights Lara played in 11 events with her best finish T11 in the Ladies Open of Portugal. On the LET, she earned EUR 24,604.59 to finish the season at 75th on the New Star Money List.

2005 Highlights Lara played in eight events with her best finish T7 at the BMW . She recorded a career low 65 in the final round. She closed the season at 69th in the LET Money List and 58th on the Exemption Money

List. Spent the majority of the season playing on the LPGA Tour in America, where Lara’s best finish was T46 at the Wendy’s Championship for Children. Earned $6,446.00 and closed at 175th on the ADT Money list.

2004 Highlights Lara played in ten events with her best finish T11 at the Wales Ladies Open. Also finished T13 at the . Missed three cuts all season and finished 52nd on the OOM, her best season to date.

2003 Highlights Played in 11 events and began her season well with T7 in Tenerife. She backed up her form with a T11 at the , remarkable for the fact she had a tumour cut from her hand in the off season. Sadly, her season demised and she failed to make a cut from July onwards and closed at 62nd on the OOM.

PERSONAL 177cm with blonde hair and brown eyes. Hobbies include computers, the internet, sports, writing and red wine. Credits Dick Harmon, and coach Anna Nistri as having had most influence on her career.

27 BIOGRAPHIES

ITALY

1. Maconi Isabelle - Date of Birth 21st April 1971 AMATEUR Winner Italian Official Tournament 1991.

PROFESSIONAL 2006 Highlights Isabella played in 16 events and her best finish was T7 at the Ladies English Open. Her next best result was T15 at the Open de Espana Femenino. Finished inside the top 30 on four further occasions. Finished the season 69th on the New Star Money List with EUR 25,508.44 in earnings.

2005 Highlights Played in 11 events with best finish T33 at the BMW Ladies Italian Open. A tough year, earned EUR 6,265.75 to close at 122nd on the Money List and 106th on the Exemption Ranking. Returned to Tour School where she won full playing rights for the 2006 season.

2004 Highlights Played in 2004 after reclaiming her playing rights at Tour School at the end of 2003, which was a poor year by her high standards. Isabella struggled again in 2004 and in six events played her best finish was T16 at the Ladies Open of Portugal. Finished at 97th on the OOM and will play in 2005 on a conditional card.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Career best performance T4th in 1993 French Open. Career- best performance 2nd in the 2000 Kronenbourg 1664 Chart Hills Classic.

PERSONAL 182cm with blonde hair and green eyes. Enjoys basketball, music, horse riding, sports cars and reading.

2. Paruscio Barbara - Date of Birth : 5th January 1979 AMATEUR Winner 2000 Italian Matchplay Championship. 2000 Winner European Team Championship.

PROFESSIONAL 2005 Highlights Barbara played in 15 events on the LET with her best finish 10th at the OTP Bank Ladies Ctrl Euro- pean Open. Also posted T35 at the Ladies Finnish Masters and T38 at the Ladies English Open at Chart Hills. Will hope to improve on her ranking in her third full season on Tour.

2004 Highlights Played in 11 events with her best finish T23 at the Spanish Open. Also finished T32 at the Central European Open. Closed the season at a creditable 54th on the OOM in her first full season.

PERSONAL 175cm tall with blonde hair and green eyes. Hobbies include dancing, going to the gym, music and cooking. Studied Economics at University. 28 OUR SPONSORS

We would like to thank our sponsors;

Air Mauritius for all the air transfers, enabling all participants to travel in a comfortable way to Mauritius.

Hugo Boss for sponsoring the Pro - Am tournament.

Taylormade, Scetia, The Mauritius Commercial Bank for contributing materially and financially to the success of the tournament.

White Sand Tours and Avis for providing all the ground transfers, for the participants, guests and press people from the airport to our properties, and for assisting with internal transfers from hotels to the golf courses.

Phoenix Beverages Limited, Jacquart and Casillero Del Diablo for contributing to the social part of the event and providing for the beverages.

29 YOUR CONTACT

MAURITIUS

Deputy Communication Manager ICO Events Kelly DESIRE Tel. 00230 / 402 2967 Mob : 00 230 257 43 70 [email protected]

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