Report issued by Abu Dhabi Invitational
January 27, 2016: Several of the big names who’ll join Rory McIlroy in playing the Abu Dhabi Invitational charity pro-am at Yas Links this weekend have been announced. Brian Lara and a host of other international sports stars will be on show this weekend at this annual event.
Europe’s 2015 Solheim Cup captain Carin Koch has also entered to play in the tournament. The 44-year-old Swede was twice a winner on the LPGA (Ladies’ Professional Golf Association) tour, and is one of several lady professionals who will be chasing a slice of the AED 1 million purse in this mixed event. Others include Carly Booth, Amy Boulden and Emma Cabrera-Bello.
Trevor Immelman (36), who is the proud owner of a green jacket after his victory at The Masters in 2008, is another big name on the list of professionals. His fellow South African Darren Fichardt is defending champion and also expected to play.
Two great names from the world of football, Roberto di Matteo (45) and Andriy Shevchenko (39), will prove a major draw for spectators, who will be admitted to the course free of charge. Di Matteo is best known for achievements with Italy and Chelsea, the latter as both a player and a manager. Shevchenko scored 48 goals in 111 caps for Ukraine, and won the Ballon d’Or in 2004. Each will pair up with a professional player in Sunday’s pro-am.
Brian Lara is another amateur entrant who achieved celestial status in his chosen sport. A former West Indian cricketer with a penchant for big innings, the 46-year-old from Trinidad’s undefeated 400 against England remains a test match record.
Former Olympic gold medallist rower Sir Matthew Pinsent will be another notable VIP amateur entry. The Briton claimed golds in four consecutive Games from Barcelona 1992 to Athens 2004, with Sir Steven Redgrave in his boat for three of them.
The Abu Dhabi Invitational comprises a full-day Amateur Championship on Saturday, followed by the main Invitational on Sunday. This will see the 58 professionals play for a share of the AED 1 million prize fund, while each of them plays alongside a VIP partner.
