Ballesteros Honorary Chairman of World Golfers Championship


Seve Ballesteros, who is still recovering from several major brain surgeries, will serve the honorary chairman of the World Golfers Championship, scheduled for October 24-31 at Marbella Golf Resort in Spain.

In a letter to Sven Tumba, the event organizer, Ballesteros thanked all involved in the tournament for their support and concern during the difficult time he's going through.

"I am on the right path to recovery and wish the 2009 World Championship and the World Golfers Invitational taking place in October at the Costa del Sol the greatest success," he wrote.

"The venue is the most challenging and beautiful one and the climate and golf facilities in Marbella are one of the best in the world to play and compete. Marbella is one of my favorite places to play golf and (I) would love to be in attendance."

Tumba, a member of the International Hockey Hall of Fame, started the tournaments in 1995 to give amateur golfers of all skills the chance to represent their countries. He expects more than 25 countries will compete this year.

The United States team will be determined in a 36-hole competition September 11-12 at the Mission Inn Resort and Club in Howey-in-the-Hills, Fla., which hosted the world finals last fall.

Anders Bengtson of World Golfers USA indicated that clubs from across the U.S. may enter five-man teams from handicap ranges of 0-5, 6-10, 11-15, 16-20 and 21-25 and by paying a $600 entry fee. For more information, visit www.worldgolfersusa.com.