The KLM Open will break new ground by hosting a unique Beat the Pro competition, when amateurs will have a chance to challenge the superstars during tournament play by hitting a shot to the green at the par three 14th hole, with prizes on offer if they can get the ball closest to the pin.
The KLM Open will be played at The Dutch in Spijk for the first time from September 8-11, and fans will be in for a treat when they make their way to the 14th.
The par three will be turned into an amphitheater for the week, with an innovative new concept on the opening day (Thursday) and third round of the tournament (Saturday) which will put a select number of lucky fans right in the thick of the action and teeing off alongside the professionals.
A concept formulated by tournament sponsors KLM and ING Private Banking, and approved by the European Tour, Beat the Pro will see one amateur player tee it up at the 14th with each group on Thursday and Sunday, aiming to hit the ball closer to the pin than the professionals.
Prizes will be on offer for those who may be successful and the purpose-built grandstand around the green will only add to the excitement.
Tournament ambassador Joost Luiten is looking forward to taking part in the Beat the Pro competition.
“This will be an absolute highlight for the players and the fans”, said Luiten. “I think it’s great to have something going on around the hole.
“I don’t think players will be distracted. On the contrary, I think they will love it. In the end we all want to play for as many fans as possible. Being challenged by an amateur makes it extra spectacular.”
Daan Slooter, the Tournament Director of the KLM Open, said: “This will definitely add to the excitement on the hole. We are delighted that the European Tour has agreed to this initiative.
“It shows that we’re on the right track in looking for ways to add excitement for fans both young and old, in cooperation with our partners KLM and ING Private Banking. Amateurs will get the chance to qualify for Beat the Pro via different competitions ahead of the KLM Open.
“We are creating an atmosphere which may be new for golf. With Beat the Pro, entertainment and a couple of thousand fans surrounding the hole, we’ll offer fans and players something unique.”
