May31 Wales Open day one
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Retief Goosen heads an all-star cast teeing it up for the first round of the Wales Open at Celtic Manor today.
The South African will be joined by fellow former US Open Champion Michael Campbell, eight time European Tour Order of Merit winner Colin Montgomerie, past Celtic Manor Wales Open winners Simon Khan and Paul Lawrie, and home hero Bradley Dredge.
Goosen, making his debut in the tournament, admitted his battle for the title will be a tough one given the quality of the field in Cardiff.
“The Celtic Manor Wales Open has grown into one of the top events on The European Tour International Schedule,” he said. “You only have to look at some of the winners’ names on the trophy know some seriously good golfers have competed for this title.
“When you add players like Colin Montgomerie to the mix, I am sure it will be another very strong field for this year’s tournament but I’m confident I can give them a run for their money.”
Ryder Cup Captain Ian Woosnam who is still suffering from the viral infection which ruled him out of action in last week’s BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth.
“Obviously I am very disappointed to miss out on playing in my National Open as there is nothing better than playing in your home country in front of your own spectators,” said Woosnam. “But health issues take precedence.”
