General Information

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TOURNAMENT OVERVIEW

Since its inception in 1994, The Presidents Cup has grown in size and stature to become one of the most eagerly awaited, highly watched events in all of golf. This golfing tournament pits the top players from the United States against an international team culled from the ranks of the finest golfers outside of Europe.

The Presidents Cup, which will be played for the ninth time in 2011, was developed to give the world's best, non-European players an opportunity to compete in international team match-play competition.

THE PLAYERS

The Presidents Cup has drawn some of the greatest names in modern golf, from Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Jim Furyk and Fred Couples for the United States Team to Ernie Els, Vijay Singh, Nick Price and Greg Norman for the International Team.

THE CAPTAINS

Through the years, each team has been led by legendary captains -- men whose accomplishments on and off the golf course have earned them not only the admiration of sports fans, but also unwavering respect of the superstars they've led. Men such as Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, Peter Thomson, and Ken Venturi. 2009 marked the first time that both teams were led by men who have experienced The Presidents Cup as competitors when Greg Norman took the reins for the International Team and Fred Couples assumed command of the United States Team. In 2011, both Norman and Couples will reprise their roles as captains for the two sides.

THE HONORARY CHAIRMEN

Presidents and Prime Ministers have served as honorary chairmen of The Presidents Cup since its inception, allowing the competition to stand as a symbol of international goodwill that reaches beyond the fairway. Underscoring the spirit of international harmony that pervades the proceedings, presidents and prime ministers including Gerald Ford, George H.W. Bush, William Jefferson Clinton and Barack Obama of the United States, Stephen Harper of Canada, Thabo Mbeki of South Africa and John Howard of Australia have all assumed the mantle of Honorary Chairman of The Presidents Cup. The Prime Minister of Australia, Julia Gillard has confirmed that she will serve as The Honorary Chairmen for the 2011 event.

OTHER INFORMATION

Tickets & Travel:
For information on tickets and travel packages, please click here.

QUICK TIPS

Plan your day:
There is a lot to do during The Presidents Cup Tournament! To get the most out of your time at the golf, it's a great idea to map out the way you might like to spend your days. Between matches come and have a look around the Fan Interactive Zone or take a walk through The Presidents Cup Public Village. Make sure to catch the Opening Ceremony, it's the event everyone will be talking about and it includes so much more than golf!

Arrive Early:
Whether you are taking public transport or driving to Royal Melbourne Golf Course, the best way to get the most out of your day is to beat the crowds and arrive early. Watch the players warm up before their matches and take a look around the many activities before the crowds set in!

What to Wear:
Remember to have a look at the weather forecast before you set out for the day. It's a good idea to remember a rain jacket, but also don't forget a hat and sunscreen; after all the event is in Melbourne's unpredictable weather! The grassy terrain is perfect for flat shoes, and of course golf shoes are more than welcome (no metal spikes please!)

Other Tips:

• Please keep an eye on young children and make sure they are a safe distance when play is in progress.

• Marshalls and Tournament staff are there to make the experience better for everyone, please respect their direction.

• November in Melbourne can have unpredictable temperatures, remember to keep hydrated.

• Protective clothing, sunscreen and a hat are important to keep out of the sun.

• Keep an eye out for first aid tents and staff. They will be placed throughout the course.

• Most of all remember to enjoy The Presidents Cup!

THE PRESIDENTS CUP 2011 ESSAY CHALLENGE

Congratulations to our two finalists of The Presidents Cup 2011 Essay Challenge. Please find attached links below, to the winning essays of Youp Okhuizen and Harry Neave.

The Presidents Cup Essay 1
The Presidents Cup Essay 2