Justin Marshall.
It will be the battle of the halfbacks at the New Zealand
PGA Championship in Arrowtown next year.
Former All Black halfback Justin Marshall is back at the
event after recording a top 10 finish in the pro-am at the
inaugural contest in April this year.
Marshall teamed with professional Brendan Jones to finish
high up in the 62-strong field.
Also at the PGA last year was former Wallabies halfback and
captain Nick Farr-Jones.
Farr-Jones will return for another attempt at the event,
which takes place at the end of February.
But the Australian challenge will not fall solely on the
shoulders of Farr-Jones. Former Wallabies and Brumbies
captain George Gregan has agreed to compete in the event.
Gregan and Marshall clashed many times during their careers
as opposing halfbacks for their respective sides. But their
rivalry stayed on the pitch, as they were firm friends off
the field.
George Gregan.
Marshall, who has a house in Queenstown, plays off a
handicap of about 10, while Gregan, who is working with the
Brumbies in a coaching role, hits off a handicap of six.
Marshall had no hesitation accepting an invitation back to
The Hills after thoroughly enjoying the experience earlier
this year.
''Without a shadow of a doubt, it's one of the greatest
things I've done in my life,'' he said.
''Playing with Brendan was a tremendous experience. I felt
privileged to be on the course with him and would love to be
teamed up with him again.''
Farr-Jones, a lawyer from Sydney, has been a frequent visitor
to Queenstown, and plays off a handicap of about 14.
Other sporting celebrities confirmed to play in the
tournament include former cricketers Sir Ian Botham, Tony
Greig and Mark Richardson.
Women's world amateur No 1 Lydia Ko has also been confirmed
as a starter.
A name, residential address, and (preferably residential) telephone number is required from readers who comment on ODT Online. These details will not be visible to site visitors.