Tag: Australian PGA Championship

A New Star Shines: Elvis Smylie Wins at Royal Queensland

In a dramatic showdown at Royal Queensland Golf Club in Eagle Farm, 22-year-old Elvis Smylie etched his name in Australian golfing history, claiming his maiden DP World Tour title at the BMW Australian PGA Championship.

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The Gold Coast native displayed remarkable composure, fending off his mentor and three-time champion Cam Smith in a wire-to-wire victory that has electrified the local golfing community.

Defining victory for Elvis Smylie

The significance of Smylie’s triumph extends beyond the pristine fairways of Royal Queensland Golf Club. Just weeks after securing his first professional win at the WA Open, the young golfer demonstrated exceptional poise throughout the championship, particularly during Sunday’s pressure-packed final round. Playing alongside his golfing idol Cam Smith and veteran Marc Leishman, Smylie crafted a flawless 67 to finish at 14 under par, two shots clear of Smith.

“It’s a dream come true,” Smylie reflects. “Playing with Cam and Leish there… I looked up to these guys since I was a kid, and just being in their presence and to compete against them for the title, I’ve learnt so much.”

A legacy takes shape at Royal Queensland

As the son of four-time grand slam doubles champion Liz Smylie, Elvis’s athletic roots run deep. From receiving the Cameron Smith Scholarship in 2019 to defeating his mentor on one of golf’s biggest stages, his journey epitomises Queensland sporting excellence.

Under the guidance of coach Ritchie Smith, Smylie has transformed his game through dedicated physical conditioning, despite challenges maintaining weight at 71 kg. His quiet determination and “old soul” demeanour, as described by his coach, stand in stark contrast to the flashier personalities often found on tour.

For Queensland’s newest sporting hero, this victory is not an endpoint but a beginning. With the Australian Open looming, Smylie remains focused, eschewing celebrations for continued preparation. “There’ll be a time to celebrate,” he noted, “but for now, I’m really looking forward to doing my best here.”

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His success at Eagle Farm has resonated beyond Australian shores, drawing congratulations from unexpected quarters, including tennis legend Ivan Lendl. Yet Smylie remains grounded, his triumph serving as a testament to the power of perseverance and the bright future of Australian golf.

Published 30-November-2024

Jason Day’s Homecoming Headlines Star-Studded 2024 BMW Australian PGA Championship

The BMW Australian PGA Championship returns to Royal Queensland Golf Club in Eagle Farm from 21 to 24 November, launching the 2024–25 DP World Tour with a prestigious $2 million purse.

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International stars join local heroes

Defending champion Min Woo Lee headlines a powerful Australian contingent, following his dramatic 2023 victory highlighted by a spectacular hole-out eagle in the final round.

The home nation’s chances are further strengthened by former world No.1 Jason Day, who makes an emotional return to Australia after a seven-year absence. Day, who developed his game just an hour west in Beaudesert, seeks his first Joe Kirkwood Cup since 2011.

“I can’t believe it’s been seven years; it’s gone by too quick,” Day told Australian Golf Digest. “It’d be nice to be able to take my whole family and show them where I’m from.”

“I’ll take the family to ‘Beau-ey’.”

The pair are joined by Australian stars Cam Smith, Cam Davis, Lucas Herbert, and Marc Leishman in a bid to keep the trophy on home soil.

The tournament’s international appeal continues to grow, with PGA TOUR member Victor Perez leading a strong European contingent. Notable challengers include Jordan Smith, Yannick Paul, Rafa Cabrera-Bello, and Nico Colsaerts. Adding to the global flavour, rising Chinese professional Wenyi Ding makes his anticipated DP World Tour debut at the tournament.

Enhanced spectator experience

The championship’s signature entertainment hub returns at the 17th Dabble Party Hole. Spectators can enjoy a unique golf atmosphere featuring a resident DJ, hospitality suites, food vendors, and public bars—making the tournament accessible to families and casual fans alike.

The tournament is projected to generate $17 million for Queensland’s visitor economy, providing a significant boost to local businesses as golf enthusiasts and tourists converge on Eagle Farm.

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How to watch the BMW Australian PGA Championship

Comprehensive broadcast coverage is available on Fox Sports, Kayo, and the NINE Network; however, organisers encourage local attendance to experience the full tournament atmosphere and the opportunity to witness elite professional golf in their own backyard.

Visit the Ticketek website for more details regarding hospitality and admission.

Published 14-November-2024

3 Big Reasons Why Australian PGA Championship 2020 Is Special

After seven years in the Gold Coast, the Australian PGA Championship recently announced its return to Brisbane. The move back to the Royal Queensland Golf Club in Eagle Farm later this year is a huge deal for three reasons.

1. Brisbane will host again after 19 years.

The last time Brisbane hosted the Australian PGA Championship was in 2001, which was also at the Royal Queensland Golf Club. Robert Allenby won this tournament, as well as the previous year’s championship (2000).  

The one other time the tournament was held in Brisbane was in 1956 at the Indooroopilly Golf Club. 

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2. 2020 marks Royal Queensland Golf Club’s 100th year.

Incidentally, the Royal Queensland Golf Club will mark its 100th year in 2020. Established in 1920, the original course in Hamilton was designed by Australian Open Champion Carnegie Clark. 

Royal Queensland Golf Club has been touted as the breeding ground for PGA Professionals, including the iconic Greg Norman, who trained at this Eagle Farm green from 1975 to 1976. Its other notable members include Charlie Earp and Adam Scott.

3.  Royal Queensland Golf Club will be host for three years.

As part of its agreement with the Australian PGA Championship,  Royal Queensland Golf Club holds the rights to carry the tournament until 2022. Thus, Brisbane golf fans will be able to watch the sporting event for three summers. 

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Photo Credit: Australian PGA Championship/Facebook

“We know Brisbane loves its live sporting events and we look forward to seeing the crowds come out to cheer on our home-grown and international golfers, while enjoying the party atmosphere of the Championship, which will continue to deliver exciting, vibrant and fan-friendly entertainment precincts on course,” PGA of Australia CEO Gavin Kirkman said.  

“We’re incredibly excited to return to Brisbane and the Royal Queensland Golf Club to celebrate a milestone anniversary of one of the country’s most treasured golf courses.”  

The Australian PGA Championship is expected to welcome PGA and European Tour pros and visitors. The sporting event is pegged to boost Brisbane’s economy and tourism.