Daly set for Owston Hall date

Big John Daly will be the star attraction at a pro-am named after him at Owston Hall on July 15.

The 1995 Open champion and 1991 USPGA winner has been invited to the Doncaster hotel and golf resort, which has hosted several sporting celebrities including legends Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, Tim Witherspoon and Sugar Ray Leonard.

"They were introduced to us by a local boxing promoter who through his contacts had the opportunity to get Daly over here," said Owston Hall head professional Jason Laszkowicz.

"He didn't even know he was a golfer because he doesn't play himself!"

Daly won't be pegging up in the pro-am because he'll be playing a practice round ahead of the Open Championship at Royal Liverpool.

"He'll be speaking at our gala dinner, having photographs with the guests and signing autographs," said Laszkowicz.

"There's also the possibility of him giving a demonstration. Tom Hollingworth, who's the European long-driving record-holder, is one of our members. He's met Daly in Las Vegas on a couple of occasions and says he's a real nice guy."

He's also hoping Steve Bottomley will attend the day because meeting Daly will evoke memories of when the former Shipley-attached professional sensationally came from nowhere to tie third at St Andrews in 1995.

"I've asked him to sit on the top table," added Laszkowicz, who is expecting to sign up 24 teams for the pro-am.

It is a precursor to a new PGA North Order of Merit tournament at Owston Hall on September 9-10 which will also be preceded by a pro-am.

Meanwhile, for John Daly pro-am information you can email Laszkowicz at Jason@owstonhall.com or phone him on 01302 722231 or 07951 478046.