Top amateurs to cross swords with Tartan Tour aces

Elite amateurs in Scotland will have the chance to compete against leading Tartan Tour regulars in a 36-hole Challenge Series in 2013.

The five tournaments will form a major part of the PGA in Scotland's Order of Merit adding to the Gleneagles Scottish PGA Championship, The Northern Open and 36 hole Pro-Am's at Dumfries & Galloway and Deer Park Golf Clubs.

The first two events at Spey Valley and Cardrona are being supported by Macdonald Hotels, who, in addition to providing the venues are offering preferential room rates for competitors at their hotels in Aviemore and Peebles for the duration of the tournaments.

The series will return to Duddingston GC in Edinburgh in July and will once again conclude in the Highlands, with Brora and Tain sharing the hosting duties for the final event. One further event will be added to the schedule in July.

Michael MacDougall, secretary of the PGA in Scotland, commented: "These tournaments proved to be very popular last year, with over 30 non-PGA members competing alongside our talented PGA professionals over the course of the season.

"We're grateful to Macdonald Hotels for their support of our opening two events, although we are still seeking sponsorship, either for the overall series or in support of the individual events.

"Last year, three of the four players who competed in the play-off at Spey Valley went on to gain their full European Tour card at the end of the season, so it's easy to see the benefits of these type of tournaments.

"Not only that, but with Spey hosting the Scottish Challenge again this year, it offers domestic players the chance of competitive practice on the course."

Series Schedule
30 Apr- 1 May Spey Valley
28 - 29 May Cardrona
2-3 July Duddingston
15 -16 or 22-23 July TBC
24-25 September Brora & Tain