Monday, 12 August 2013 01:19
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By Harsha Udayakantha Peiris
The Oman Air Gold Classic 2013 teed off at the Victoria Golf and Country Resort, Digana over the weekend under the cool country environs bathed in sunshine.
“This is our fourth tournament in Kandy. When we started the tournament, one of our objectives was to raise awareness among the top business community in Sri Lanka and even international destinations. This helps to promote Sri Lanka as a tourist destination in the Middle Eastern region. Last year, we had 25 players from Oman and Dubai for the tournament and this year we have six players – two from India and four from Doha,” stated Gihan Karunaratne, Country Manager of Oman Air for Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
The tournament has further strengthened business opportunities between countries, companies and organisations. The top global business communities in Sri Lanka have found collaboration with European and other international communities with the commencement of the tournament.
“Golf is gaining popularity rapidly in Sri Lanka. We have opened an avenue, a richer one, whereby giving people in Sri Lanka an exposure to golf. A majority of the golfers in Sri Lanka faithfully rate Victoria Golf and Country Resort in Kandy as the best course in Sri Lanka. We should bring this to the forefront of the international arena,” Karunaratne added.
73 golfers at the Oman Air Gold Classic 2013 held at the Victoria Golf and Country Resort competed over 36 holes for two days. They enjoyed an exclusive get-together on Saturday at the venue. Prizes worth Rs. 100,000, Rs. 75,000 for the runners-up and Rs. 50,000 each for the best gross score for ladies and gents as well as a number of consolation prizes also awaits the winners.
“We have also brought our staff here on a beautiful Sunday to enjoy and to meet the people, making it a part of our PR, marketing and promotions program. We are confident of our brand image. The winners will travel with us and the word-of-mouth advertising will go a long way,” noted Karunaratne.
