Montgomerie Helps Launch New Amateur Event in Sicily
Verdura Resort in Sicily staged the first Sir Rocco Forte Captain’s Trophy in September. The four-day amateur competition used the East Links and West Shore courses, with Team Verdura Golf Club winning the team prize. Colin Montgomerie attended, gave a driving-range demonstration and spoke about his career during an evening interview.
The inaugural Captain’s Trophy took place at Verdura Resort in Sicily during September. Amateurs affiliated with golf federations competed over 36 Stableford holes on the Kyle Phillips-designed East Links and West Shore layouts, with three handicap divisions and both net and gross prizes. Team Verdura Golf Club earned the club prize.
Montgomerie’s appearance included a range demonstration and a conversational session about a career featuring 31 European Tour victories, eight Order of Merit titles and eight Ryder Cup caps. Raro Discovery partnered on the event, while Donato Di Ponziano oversaw tournament direction. Guests could also join Sicilian cooking lessons, use the spa and explore the resort’s private coast.
The event could raise Sicily’s profile as a golf destination, potentially drawing more visiting players and benefiting local hospitality, transport and tourism businesses. Amateur golfers may find inspiration in competing alongside a Ryder Cup figure, while resorts and tour operators could see value in similar celebrity-backed tournaments. For residents, any gains may depend on how well increased interest is managed and shared across the wider region.