Golf Helps Propel Tourism: A-G
Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said yesterday the Fiji International golf tournament presented significant opportunities for the Fijian economy.
The Acting Prime Minister and Attorney-General made the comment at the 2017 Fiji International VIP Launch at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva yesterday. The fourth edition of the Fiji International tees off the Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course on Thursday.
“There is a lack of understanding for the potential this type of events hold for this country,” Sayed-Khaiyum said.
“As we have seen, this tournament has gained particular momentum and can propel the whole golfing segment of tourism to much greater heights.
“Tourism is the largest contributor towards our gross domestic product (GDP). There is a need to improve the different segmentation that we see and find other avenues to promote tourism in the country.”
Last year, coverage of the tournament was broadcast across 46 countries with over a million viewers, and this year international media coverage will again continue with broadcasting of the event also done on PGA TV Australia.
The Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course venue has been, with the ideas of Vijay Singh, remodelled to become one of the best golfing venues in the Pacific today.
In his message for the event, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, said:
“After three successful years of hosting the Fiji International, our islands have earned an outstanding international reputation as a premier golfing destination.
“And we are aiming to do even better in the years to come, as we continue to showcase the beauty of our country and the unique warmth and hospitality of our people.”
Sports and Entertainment Limited managing director Basil Scaffidi confirmed world renowned golfers Vijay Singh, Michael Weir and Andrew Evans would be part of the competition.
Ten local sponsors have also come on board to support the tournament. Also present at the launch was All Black great Justin Marshall.
Former Wallabies captain George Gregan, and Marshall are Fiji International ambassadors.
Edited by Osea Bola
Feedback: sheldon.chanel@fijisun.com.fj
