Golf: Kapil Dev-Grant Thornton to Launch New Mixed Format from April 23

Synopsis
The Kapil Dev-Grant Thornton Invitational is returning for its third edition, taking place from April 23 to 26 at Prestige Golfshire in Bengaluru. This year, it introduces a mixed format that combines professional and amateur play, highlighting inclusivity in Indian golf.
Key Takeaways
- New mixed format aimed at transforming Indian golf.
- First co-sanctioned tournament by PGTI and WGAI.
- Prize purse of Rs 2 crores.
- Includes Pro-Am rounds for greater engagement.
- Focus on inclusivity and nurturing future golfers.
New Delhi, March 18 (NationPress) The third edition of the Kapil Dev-Grant Thornton Invitational is scheduled to commence at Prestige Golfshire in Bengaluru from April 23 to 26, unveiling an innovative mixed format aimed at revolutionizing the Indian golf scene.
This tournament is notable as it will be India's first professional golf event co-sanctioned by the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) and the Women's Golf Association of India (WGAI), boasting a prize pool of Rs 2 crores.
The competition will merge elements of the Professional Championship with a Pro-Am segment, uniting professionals and amateurs in a vibrant and interactive format.
The event will kick off with a practice round on April 23, followed by a three-day, 72-hole championship from April 24 to 26, featuring 60 male and 12 female professionals.
Additionally, there will be three Pro-Am rounds in a rotating format, where 48 professionals will compete in the morning, while the remaining 24 will partner with 72 amateurs during the afternoon session.
Each Pro-Am team will consist of one professional and three amateurs, with scores combining the pro's stroke play and the amateurs' scramble format. Prize money will be distributed to the top three professionals in the Pro Am rankings.
Kapil Dev, the PGTI president and Indian cricket icon, stated, "With the third installment of the Kapil Dev-Grant Thornton Invitational, we are set to elevate the experience, making this year's event truly remarkable. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Grant Thornton Bharat for their steadfast support in advancing golf in India, as well as to the venue, Prestige Golfshire Bengaluru. Golf holds significant value in India, promoting inclusivity, diversity, and excellence.
"Through this tournament, we aspire to captivate a wider audience, foster a larger community of golf enthusiasts, and, most importantly, nurture the next generation of golfers, making the sport more accessible and inclusive for everyone. I am thankful to all our partners for their dedication to cultivating a vibrant and inclusive sports culture in India. Let’s aim to make this edition another landmark in the thrilling journey of golf in our nation."
Amandeep Johl, CEO of PGTI, remarked, "The involvement of top Indian female professionals, thanks to our collaboration with the Women's Golf Association of India (WGAI), adds an exciting new dimension to the event and underscores the theme of inclusivity in sports. This year’s tournament, featuring a new venue and the participation of leading Indian female professionals, promises to deliver an extraordinary experience for both competitors and golf enthusiasts."