The announcement of the new format tournament was made 2 years ago, but due to the pandemic it has been delayed for full year to meet its inaugural debut. On May 20th, Golf Partner Pro-Am will proudly make grand opening.

This tournament follows the historically famous US PGA Tour's Pebble Beach Pro-Am (since 1937) format style.

120 professionals will make entry. As for the amateurs, there were qualifying tournaments held by the end of last December at 20 sites within Japan, 300 players made the 1st qualifier. Then the window was narrowed to 240 amateurs to actually play on the tournament.

On first 2 rounds, amateurs will be in pairs (doubles), playing along with the Pros, but amateurs will play in best ball formats. Then on the weekends, only top 60 amateurs will play on and the format will be changed to singles and score battle will be scratch.

For all 4 rounds, pairings will be 2 Pros and 2 amateurs in 1 group. Amateurs will be performing their best golf right in front of the professionals making their best shots.

Last year, the Pro-Am concept was washed away due to the pandemic. But organizers managed to hold an exhibition tournament for the professionals. As for protection purposes, players all played without caddies and carried their own bags.

On that exhibition tournament, Naoki Sekitou made a come from behind victory, and became a new hero. This year, Naoki challenges to become the first official winner of the tournament.

The venue, Toride Kokusai GC is renovated by Isao Aoki, JGTO Chairman, and is also one of Isao's favorite course. Please look forward to an exciting drama on the new and unique formatted tournament.