Pro-Am starts Vic Open action

13th Beach Golf Links in Barwon Heads began its Vic Open proceedings on Wednesday with the running of the event's Pro-Am tournament. Pictured left to right is the winning team: Geelong Cats spearhead Jeremy Cameron, Geelong Racing Club CEO Luke Rayner, pro golfer Ryan Ruffles and Geelong Cats forward Brad Close. Photo: ANDY ROGERS PHOTOGRAPHY

SPORTING personalities, media figures and sponsors all teed off in Barwon Heads on Wednesday this week to start this year’s Vic Open proceedings at the event’s annual Pro-Am.

Headlining the cohort of notable figures in attendance included recently retired international cricketer Aaron Finch and several Geelong Cats players including Jeremy Cameron, Brad Close, Cam Guthrie, Zac Guthrie and former captain Joel Selwood.

The Tour Scramble-style Pro-Am created a festive start to the Vic Open at 13th Beach Golf Links.

Golf Australia chief executive officer James Sutherland and Cr Ron Nelson from the City of Greater Geelong were also on the card at 13th Beach Golf Links in Barwon Heads.

Teams of four, comprising three amateurs and one pro, began the Tour Scramble event at 7.45am.

Cr Ron Nelson, City of Greater Geelong director of city planning Gareth Smith, Australian golfing legend Karrie Webb and Keith Schleiger from The Block.

“The Pro-Am is the perfect way to start the week because it’s fun, it’s relaxed, and it’s a great opportunity for the community to connect with the players at a time when they’re chilled and not in the competitive bubble, so to speak,” Vic Open spokesperson Martin Blake said.

“For a lot of people, getting to play with a professional golfer is a fantastic opportunity, the best seat in the house.