6/12/07
The world’s best female golfers are about to tee off in the 2007 Lexus Cup for the first time in Perth.
Tourism Minister Sheila McHale said the Lexus Cup, to be held at The Vines Resort and Country Club from December 7 to 9, would see some of the world’s best women golfers compete in Perth.
“This is the first time the Lexus Cup has been played outside Asia,” Ms McHale said.
“We’re thrilled Western Australian fans can get to see their golfing heroes up close on a course they can use themselves.”
The Minister said 24 of the world’s top female players would represent Team Asia and Team International in the elite competition.
“The greatest woman golfer of all time, Swede Annika Sorenstam, will be joined by one of Asia’s best, Se Ri Pak of Korea, as respective team captains,” she said.
“Australian Nikki Campbell will play in front of a home crowd for Team International.”
Ms McHale said the event continued WA’s strong tradition of hosting prestigious golf tournaments.
“The Lexus Cup, like the Johnnie Walker Classic last year, is a major sporting drawcard and is one of the highlights on the State’s events calendar,” she said.
“These alternate golf events offer WA a highly effective way of promoting key messages to our tourism markets.”
The State Government spent $550,000 to secure the right to host the event and has the first option to host it again in 2010 and 2013.
Ms McHale said the Cup was expected to generate about $1million to the WA economy and gain global media exposure, including live broadcasts on Fox Sports in Australia and South Korea.
“The Carpenter Government is supporting our tourism industry to ensure jobs and opportunities for Western Australians,” she said.
Minister's office - 9213 6900
