bumper crowds expected at the Emirates Australian Open in Sydney next month there will be a range of spectator experiences that will make it a unique event.
They include the innovative AO Radio, with a live broadcast across the venue, the MyGolf interactive zone, the tournament village and a putting competition.
AO Radio is a concept drawn from major golf tournaments overseas, and includes free headsets handed to spectators upon entry.
The broadcast is being mounted from the course and will include 20 hours of coverage over the four tournament days, Thursday to Sunday, hosted by Mark Allen of SEN and Michael Clayton, with on-course commentary from Golf Australia’s Martin Blake, Matt Cutler, Brad James and John Huggan, and Croc Media’s Cameron Luke and interviews by SEN’s Andrew Maher.
The broadcast can be heard out on the course through the free head sets, and also through phone and tablet applications off course through the tournament website www.ausopengolf.com.au
The tournament village with have big screens for spectators to watch the action, as well as food and beverages and merchandise stalls.
There will be a putting competition each day near the Emirates marquee stationed near the 18th green at The Australian.
Golf Australia has made a point of ensuring that the experience is rich for younger spectators, with children who are 16 and under admitted for free when accompanied by a paying adult.
MyGolf, the national junior introductory program, is running an interactive zone throughout the Emirates Australian Open.
The zone is open to all children from five to 12 years of age, and includes a hitting target with a $250 prize on the line.
The Emirates Australian Open is from 27-30 November at The Australian Golf Club.
World No. 1 Rory McIlroy is defending the title he won at Royal Sydney last year, and Australia’s top-ranked player Adam Scott also is in the field, trying to avenge his defeat at the final hole by McIlroy last year.
Tickets are available through Ticketek at www.ticketek.com.auor by phoning 132849.