Jeev Milkha Singh registered a T-3 finish at the inaugural HSBC India Legends Championship
Jeev Milkha Singh, with four European Tour titles to his name, had a chance to win right till the final hole of the US$ 500,000 three day, 54 hole HSBC India Legends Tour event in Delhi last week but ultimately finished 3rd at 4 under par 212.
Another former Asian Tour winner, Jyoti Randhawa, was the next best Indian, finishing tied-9th.
This was the first ever international pro event for the over 50’s Legends Tour has been staged and signified the growing importance of India as a market for international golf tournaments. Sadly we are hampered by a lack of suitable venues.
The hot and humid weather of Delhi also took its toll on players, including tournament host Jeev, confessing that he was getting absolutely drained in the oppressive playing conditions. The high scores reflected how difficult it was to play in the heat.
The 7300 yard par 72 Greg Norman designed Jaypee Greens proved to be a challenging championship venue with an attached five star hotel, and strengthened its case as a future host for international events like possibly the Indian Open.
The event was preceded by two corporate pro-ams and also allowed amateurs to play alongside the pros in the first two days of the tournament proper, which is a valuable lesson on how to make pro tournaments more attractive for corporate sponsorships.
Evening events, clinics and other promotions further demonstrated how the Tour markets itself to fans.
Photo – Legends Tour