Paul Lawrie Matchplay backed by Sir Alex

• Paul Lawrie Matchplay receives backing from Sir Alex Ferguson
• Aberdeen captain Russell Anderson also behind the European Tour event
• Tournament will take place at Murcar Links GC from July 30 – August 2

Former Aberdeen and Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has given his full backing to the Saltire Energy Paul Lawrie Matchplay that will take place from July 30 until August 2.

The inaugural event at Murcar Links GC, which is the brainchild of Aberdeen’s golfing hero Paul Lawrie, will run for a minimum of three years on The European Tour’s Race to Dubai.

Ferguson, who was famously drafted in by 2014 European Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley to deliver an ‘inspirational’ speech ahead of the Gleneagles event, has a big affinity with the Aberdeen community following his hugely successful stint as manager from 1978 to 1986.

“It is very fitting that he now has a European Tour event named after him” – Sir Alex Ferguson

He said: “I think it’s a fantastic achievement for Paul to be launching a new event on the European Tour and I wish him every success with the tournament.

“Paul has achieved so much in his sport and has given so much back through his Foundation so it is very fitting that he now has a European Tour event named after him. I have a big affiliation to Aberdeen and this is great for the region to have another top sporting event being hosted there.”

Also pledging his support to the event is current Aberdeen club captain Russell Anderson, who said: “I’m delighted to lend my support to Paul as he launches his inaugural event at Murcar. As an ardent Dons supporter, Paul is usually the one offering support to the team from the stands at Pittodrie so it’s great to be reciprocating.

“To be able to bring such a prestigious tour event to the North East is a significant achievement for Paul but it’s also a huge coup for the city. On behalf of everyone at Aberdeen FC, I wish Paul every success with the event.”

The Saltire Energy Paul Lawrie Matchplay, which has a prize fund of €1million, will pit 64 leading professional players on the Race to Dubai against each other.

The North East event will offer up-and-coming players the opportunity to gain vital matchplay experience on one of Scotland’s top links courses and this is the first time Paul has hosted an event at the top level of European golf, having previously supported the game at grassroots level through the Paul Lawrie Foundation.

Mike Loggie, chief executive of Saltire Energy, said: “We are proud to support Paul as he brings this new European Tour event to the granite city. It is championships such as this which will see Aberdeen recognised for its immense sporting talent on a global stage.

The Paul Lawrie Foundation was launched in 2001, two years after Paul famously won the 1999 Open Championship at Carnoustie.

The mission of the Foundation is to encourage as many young people to play golf as possible, but also to give youngsters the chance to develop their golf with the Foundation and go on to win on tour, and ultimately, win a major championship.

Paul Lawrie Matchplay :: Your thoughts

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