The Four Nations Cup has officially been opened during a low-key ceremony at Barwon Heads Golf Club, Victoria. Players and officials from Australia, Canada, Japan and New Zealand gathered at the club following their second practice round to be present for the opening. Golf Australia CEO Tony Hallam spoke at the ceremony, highlighting the strong international field that is currently in Australia for the Four Nations Cup. “This stellar international event brings together some of the best amateur golfers in the world to vie for the trophy 20 years since it was first contested at Waitikiri Golf Club in New Zealand,” he said. “The Australians won the tournament back then in 1987 and have won it a further seven times since. This is the first time the biannual tournament has been held in Victoria, and the hosts will be keen to hold on to the silverware after winning in Japan in two years ago.” But Mr Hallam also mentioned how keen the challengers would be to end the Australian dominance. “Joining us here at Barwon Heads are teams from Canada, Japan and New Zealand who will be determined to do their respective nations proud,” he said. “Japan won the cup in 1997, Canada in 2001 and the Kiwis are yet to break through, but with four members of their successful men&aposs Trans Tasman Cup squad here at Barwon Heads, they might be sensing that 2007 might just be their year!” Mr Hallam also thanked key groups that were instrumental in making the event happen including Barwon Heads Golf Club, the members for giving up their course, the Victorian Golf Association and all of their dedicated volunteers as well as the Australian Sports Commission. Competition begins on Wednesday morning (AEST) when Australia play New Zealand and Canada takes on Japan. You can follow all of the action live at www.golfaustralia.org.au