Stakes rise for Satelindo Open

JAKARTA (JP): The prize money at the 1997 Satelindo Indonesia Open has been raised to Rp 700 million (US$275,000) from US$250,000.

The tournament will be held at the Jagorawi golf and country club in Bogor from April 24 to April 27.

Satelindo, the main sponsor, will also provide $10,000 cash for the winner of a pro-am tournament on April 23.

"Due to the two-year title sponsorship commitment made by Satelindo, the Indonesian Golf Association is pleased to be able to increase the total prize money for the tournament," said Taufik Aziz, the association's secretary-general.

The winner will take home $44,412.50, the runner-up will bag $30,607.50 and the third place getter will receive $17,850.

There is also $2,500 on offer for a Jagorawi course record, which is eight-under-par 64.

"We are pleased to host such a major tournament. The 1996 Indonesia Open was also staged here. But this year's tournament will take place on our newest course. It will be very interesting if any world-rated pro golfers can produce a new record," said Zakir, the course's director.

The Jagorawi links has three 18-hole courses. The oldest, or number-one course, is among the best in Indonesia.

Another sponsor, PT Imora Motors, is offering a Honda Civic sedan to any golfer who scores a hole-in-one at the 162-meter par 3 15th hole.

The Satelindo Indonesia Open is part of the Asian PGA Omega Tour.

One hundred and forty-four golfers are expected to compete in the tournament. The field will be reduced to 65 after the second round.

Top golfers including the 1989 British Open winner Mark Calcavecchia of the USA, the Australian Masters winner Craig Parry of Australia, Jeev Milkha Singh of India, M Ali Kadir of Malaysia, Kyi Hla Han of Myanmar, Gerry Norquist of the USA, Samson Gimson of Singapore, Kyi Hla Han of Myanmar and Craig Camps of South Africa have confirmed their entries for the tournament.

Indonesia's Kasyadi, the 1989 Indonesia Open winner, Maan Nasim and Ilyassak have also confirmed.

Indonesian golfers are expected to learn from two of the world's best players, Calcavecchia and Parry.

Defending champion Edward Fryatt of England has not yet confirmed his entry. (yan)