This year’s Senior British Open will be graced by the presence of golf’s ‘Big Three’ when Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Gary Player all line-up at Royal County Down in Newcastle from July 26th-29th.
Both Player and Palmer had already confirmed their participation but Nicklaus only announced his intention to play this afternoon.
Player has yet to miss a Senior British Open since the inauguration of the event in 1987. The South African has won the championship three times in 1988, 1990 and 1997.
Nicklaus is undoubtedly the big draw and according the European Tourofficial website the 'Golden Bear is looking forward to the challenge of the Newcastle links.
"I have never had the opportunity to participate in this event and I have always wanted to play Royal County Down," said Nicklaus.
He went on to say: "Before I finish my career I thought it would be appropriate to combine both opportunities an play both. I am very much looking forward to it."
The challenge of playing the world renowned links course was further emphasised by Palmer.
"I am really looking forward to playing in the Senior British Open again. Its been six years since I last played at Royal Portrush. What particularly appealed to me this year is that it will be played at Royal County Down, a historic course that I have so much about for so many years but have never played, said Palmer"
Although there is an outstanding line-up for this year’s event there remains a doubt over the defending champion Christy O’Connor Jnr’s ability to take part.
O’Connor Jnr is still recovering from a freak accident with a motorbike but is determined to regain fitness and go in pursuit of his third successive British Senior Open title.