Entry date extended to 7th July as entries continue to flood in for amateur golf’s ‘Race to Dubai’

The Matchplay Championship, one of Europe’s biggest amateur golf tournaments has received a surge in entries following the unveiling of its NEW Men’s Singles event for 2011/12, resulting in a new closing date of July 7th. The tournament, which was aired on Sky Sports following this year’s Grand Final in Dubai, has been growing in popularity since it was first introduced, and continues to grow in popularity heading into it’s 9th year in 2011/12. Entries have increased by 20% for the forthcoming competition, which boasts a men’s singles category for the first time and offers winners a once-in-a-lifetime experience at the Dubai Grand Final, which is hosted at The Els Club and Marriott Dubai Harbour Hotel.

“All golfers like to play competitive golf, and the Matchplay Championship provides an opportunity for golfers to play at one of the best courses in the world and compete in front of the TV cameras,” commented John Woosey, Managing Director of The JRW Group, who organise the Matchplay Championship. “Such a significant increase in the number of entries this year is testament to the hard-work of all the staff and sponsors that make this such a great event, and we’re delighted to see the competition continue to go from strength to strength.”

The 2011 Men’s Pairs Grand Final was won in spectacular fashion by Andy Billson and Andy Castell of Collingtree Park Golf Club in Northampton, while Paul Fell and Joanne Beddows from Wrexham took home the Mixed Pairs event. The tournament also includes a non-active handicap event, which was won by Craig Sullivan and Stuart James of Cardiff.

“The organisation of the Matchplay Championship was faultless and to win through to the GrandFinal in Dubai was unbelievable. We were treated like tour professionals from start to finish, staying in a suite at the Marriott Dubai Harbour Hotel and playing The Els Club; it was a fantastic week of golf. From the condition of the course, practice areas, staff and service; they were all second to none!” noted Men’s Pairs 3rd place finisher, Elliot Bates.

“This has been the golfing experience of a lifetime! We have no doubt that based on the success of this year’s Dubai Grand Final, the Matchplay Championship will turn into one of the World's biggest amateur golf events!” commented Chris Scott-Douglas, Runner-Up in the Men’s Pairs event.

With an entry fee of just £25 each, the Matchplay Championship has become one of Europe’s biggest amateur golf events. Regional Finals will be held at prestigious UK Marriott venues, while the Grand Final includes return flights to Dubai, 7 nights accommodation at the Marriott Dubai Harbour Hotel including dinner and breakfast, 4 rounds at the world-renowned Els Club and prize-giving Gala Dinner.