Apes Hill Barbados is the stunning venue for this tournament and one which seems to have got all concerned excited for the week and the season ahead.
Players getting their first look around the golf course on Monday couldn’t resist a few picture perfect snaps – and why not!
Carlos Balmaseda, who made it onto the Legends Tour this season through Q-school in January, was certainly impressed at the view from the tee’s on the long par 3 12th hole.
Phil Harrison, Legends Tour CEO said: “We are excited about the start of the 2024 season and especially to get it underway in a destination like Barbados which further supports us being a global Tour.
“The host venue team at Apes Hill Barbados have been incredible to deal with – they have a very special piece of property and we cannot wait to show it to our players and everyone who watches on from afar.
“Last season saw a great battle between Peter Baker and Adilson da Silva to win the season long MCB Road to Mauritius title – and now on the eve of the new schedule getting underway I am eager to see who asserts themselves on our Order of Merit early in the season.
“I am especially keen to see how some of the rookies perform this season, with names such as Peter Lawrie, Raphael Jacquelin and David Lynn joining us during the course of this year, when they turn 50.
“The Legends Tour is something I am so proud to lead, the work of those behind the scenes is impressive as is the commitment and skill of the players – our star attractions, alongside the venues. 2024 sees us put on a schedule of 20 events, across four different continents and with a total prize pool of more than €18m. The growth year-on-year shows how this Tour, this brand is heading in the right direction.
“Hosting our opening event in Barbados will provide a stunning backdrop, some great golf, an amazing golf course and some sunshine too! I look forward to seeing which of our players picks up the trophy on Sunday afternoon.”
Sunil Chatrani, executive chairman of Apes Hill Barbados added: “On behalf of Apes Hill and our friend and ambassador, Ian Woosnam, it is a great honour to welcome the golf professionals and amateurs to Barbados for the curtain-raiser of the 2024 Legends Tour season. Apes Hill was created to provide world-class golfing facilities blended with a natural and sustainable environment and, most importantly, a spirit of community and togetherness.
“As players from across the golfing world set out for the challenge of the Barbados Legends event here at Apes Hill, we look forward to them sharing in our special recipe of community and experiences over the coming days.”
The destination is also playing the role of proud host this week – Barbados excited to have the Legends Tour here.
Kamal Springer, Manager of Sports at Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. added: “Barbados is constantly attracting high-level and diverse sporting events. It is a key goal in our Sports Tourism Strategy to continue finding international partners and events that can generate visitor spend and positive awareness for Barbados.”
Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) is thrilled to extend a warm welcome to the Legends of Golf Tour as it makes its way to our beautiful island from May 3rd-5th for an unforgettable event. We are incredibly proud and honoured to be a corporate partner for this prestigious tour. With our awe-inspiring landscapes, world-class golf courses, and legendary hospitality, Barbados sets the perfect stage for golf enthusiasts to come together and celebrate the sport they love. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be captivated by the charm and allure of our beautiful island, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Sports hold a special place in the heart of Barbados, not only as a form of entertainment, but it is a vital aspect of our cultural identity and community uplift. Across the island, you’ll find locals and visitors alike coming together to partake in various sporting activities, from cricket and football to sailing and surfing. Sports play a significant role in promoting unity, fostering healthy lifestyles, and providing opportunities for personal growth and development. Moreover, the festivals and events surrounding these activities serve as a driving force behind our thriving tourism industry, attracting visitors from around the globe who seek to experience the exhilaration of sports against the backdrop of Barbados’ unparalleled beauty.
In addition to the Legends of Golf Tour, the island is set to host a line-up of other exciting international sporting events throughout the year. In June, cricket fans will converge on our shores for the ICC Men’s T-20 Cricket World Cup preliminaries and finals, promising thrilling matches and an electrifying atmosphere. December brings the highly anticipated Run Barbados Festival, where runners of all levels can challenge themselves amidst the scenic landscapes of our island paradise. And in March, surf enthusiasts will gather for the Barbados Surf Pro, showcasing the skills of world-class surfers against the backdrop of our pristine coastline. With such a diverse array of sporting events, Barbados continues to solidify its reputation as a premier destination for sports, adventure, and unforgettable experiences.
Click below to see more of our host destination as we joined Peter Baker and his wife Helen on a tour of Barbados.
