Keith Pelley hopes inaugural GolfSixes will attract new fans to golf
Friday 5 May 2017 15:08, UK
European Tour CEO Keith Pelley is hopeful that this week’s inaugural GolfSixes can help attract a new and younger audience to the sport.
The tournament sees two-man teams from 16 countries battle it out in a match play contest over six holes at Centurion Golf Club, with a group stage on Saturday before a knockout competition on Sunday.
The event is the latest new format to be trialled on the European Tour, following the ISPS Handa Super 6 Perth in February, as golf tries to generate new interest and increase its general appeal.
"What we're trying to do is broaden the reach of the game and get to different demographics," Pelley told Sky Sports News HQ. "We're after the millennial and the younger group and that's what this is all about.
"I think all businesses and all sports are always trying to adapt and make their product better.
"There will always be room for the 72-hole tournament and we'll always maintain the traditions and integrity of the game, but at the same time we want to be innovative and try some different things."
Live GolfSixes
Each of the six holes has its own theme, including a long-drive contest, nearest the pin challenge and a shot clock were players will be limited to 40 seconds per shot.
The event also has a number of celebrities and stars from other sports as guest commentators and co-host, with Pelley confident that the format will be a success.
"Do I think it could grow? Yeah, I do," Pelley added. "It's a completely different format and it's definitely going to be entertaining.
"I think there is a narrative happening in the world of golf right now where people are open to change. We're trying lots of new things, some things will work this week and some will not.
Live GolfSixes
"There's a good buzz about it and a good feel about it, and we're very excited to start about what is coming up over the next couple of days."
Watch the GolfSixes live throughout the weekend on Sky Sports 4 - your home of golf. Live coverage begins on Saturday from 12.30pm.
