Cambodia’s Inaugural Seniors Open slated for November

A first of its kind senior golf tournament, dubbed the ‘Cambodia Inaugural Seniors Open’, is set to be held in the Kingdom across November 21 and 22.

The tournament, one of the major sports events organised since the ban on sport – which began in March to stop the spread of COVID-19 – lifted in June, will be held at the Angkor Golf Resort in Siem Reap province, according to the general manager at Angkor Golf Resort David Baron.

“With C-19 heavily impacting our international events we wanted to remain active and see if we could identify a way to enhance the domestic golfing calendar,” he said.

A good way to do this is by creating a new, unique event. The Cambodian Seniors Open will be the 1st of its kind in Cambodia and we look forward to crowning a new National Golf Champion,” he said.

“As with most sports, both professional and amateur, there is often a senior circuit, tour or category. We certainly see this in golf at most golf clubs and we can see the senior Pro’s playing each week on the PGA Champions Tour,” he added.

Baron explained that a Senior Open would be a great addition to the Cambodian golf scene.

“Whilst we must always encourage youngsters to the game, I felt that a Senior Open event would be a good addition to the Cambodian Golf Scene. A large percentage of local golfers fit into the 50+ category and we feel this event recognises their commitment to the game over the years,” he said.

“A lot of these senior players have played a big role in developing the game in Cambodia and introducing new players along the way. It would be a nice moment for one of these competitors to be crowned Cambodian Senior Champion,” he added.

There are two divisions for the competition: 50-59 years old and 60 plus. Both divisions will have their respective gross and net prizes.

The overall title will be given to the player with the lowest 36-hole gross score, regardless of age.

The event is open to Cambodian nationals and residents only.

“As with all ‘Opens’ the event is also open to International players who officially reside in Cambodia,” Baron said.

The entry fee is pegged at $180 per participant.

“We are seeking the support of golfers from Phnom Penh as it is home to 90 percent of golfers in Cambodia. Memoire D’Angkor is our official partner hotel and they are providing some excellent rates for players,” Baron pointed out.

“We look forward to welcoming all participants and hosting another great event. As with all events, we pride ourselves on our organization, professionalism and guest experience,” he said.