Perth to host Johnnie Walker Classic

The Johnnie Walker Classic will make a return to Australia next year when it will be staged at the Vines Resort and Country Club in Perth.

The tournament, tri-sanctioned by the European, Asian and Australasian Tours, will be making its fifth visit to Australia since it was first held there in 1997.

In all, the Johnnie Walker Classic has been played in eight countries and 13 different golf clubs around the Asia Pacific region and was held for the first time in India this year.

"The Johnnie Walker Classic, one of Asia Pacific's most established and popular golf events, has always enjoyed tremendous success at the various exotic locations it has visited," said Johnnie Walker global brand director David Gates.

"We are especially looking forward to returning to Western Australia as it is a destination that offers fantastic weather, tremendous courses, excellent facilities and a truly warm welcome."

"In turn the Johnnie Walker Classic has a reputation for attracting a high calibre field of international, Asian and local players and we are confident that 2009 will be no different."

"Australia's golfing fans can look forward to watching some top quality golf action by some of the world's best players right on their own doorstep as well as enjoying some great off-course entertainment and atmosphere throughout the week."

The 2009 event will be played from February 19 to 22.