 August 22, 2008--For the last 10 years, a team of Las Vegas amateur golfers representing the United States have played a team of amateur golfers from the UK in an event known as the Transatlantic Team Challenge. The series was tied 5-5, with the UK team winning earlier this year at the event that took place at Las Vegas golf courses Canyon Gate Country Club, Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort, Bali Hai Golf Club and Desert Pines Golf Club (pictured). Now a new format will debut for this event that is newly dubbed the Intercontinental Golf Team Challenege and the World Finals will take place next year over five Las Vegas golf courses that have yet to be announced. "In January 2009, teams from around the world will gather in Las Vegas for the inaugural world final of the Intercontinental Golf Team Challenge," reads the news at GlobalGolfers.com, the official tournament organizer. "The battle will take place across five of the best courses in the region and by the final day, one team will lift the World final trophy."
Countries that have already signed up to participate include England, Scotland, USA, Nigeria, Wales and France. Qualifying is already taking place for the teams in events sponsored by GlobalGolfers.com. And one thing that promises not to change is the fun and excitement that the tournament has come to be known for over the last decade. Last year's final installment of the Team Challenge came down to the wire in the Ryder Cup format. The Team USA captain was former major leaguer Dusty Allen.  "As a longtime member of the US team, I was honored to be named the team captain in 2008," said Allen. "The week was one of tremendous camaraderie and competition. The UK brought over a talented group of competitors that were focused on regaining the Transatlantic Cup after 3 straight US victories. With only 1 point separating the two teams going into the singles matches on the final day, the UK’s determination and skill simply proved too much in the end."
Those qualifying to come to Las Vegas receive return flights from London to Las Vegas, transfers, accommodation, team country uniforms, welcome reception, five days of green fees, a gala dinner and prizes. The Mandalay Bay is the host hotel. |
