311 professionals in fray

NEW DELHI, JUNE 19. A record number of 311 pros would vie for 85 qualifying spots in the final stage of the Qualifying School event of the Professional Golfers' Association of India (PGAI), for the 2001- 02 season. The 311 golfers, hoping to make it to the coming PGA Indian domestic tour, have entered the tournament which is being played over three stages at the Poona Club Golf Course, in Pune.

The aspirants would be divided into two groups for a 36-hole strokeplay event. The top 43 players from round one would make it to the final qualifying stage. The round two, to be played on June 22 and 23, would return 42 players for the final round.

The 85 qualifiers would be joined by 65 players from the 2000-01 season Order of Merit who could not retain their cards. There would be an intense competition as the field of 150 would contest for the top 34 spots and a ticket to the next season, from June 26 to 29.

It is the biggest field ever in the Q-School tournament. In the 1997-98 season, 131 players tried their luck, while 240 pros went through the grind last season. This year, entries have been received from Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh. The PGAI is sponsoring the final stage, which has a total prize money of Rs. 1.5 lakh. Top 50 and ties after the 72- hole strokeplay tournament would share the prize money.

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Section  : Sport
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