The sad death of Severiano Ballesteros has generated a wave of emotion regarding Seve’s unique contribution to the development of The European Tour, and the many ways in which the Tour could honour Seve’s memory.
An announcement will be made shortly regarding the Seve Trophy, to be played in September, and other options, including changing the Tour’s logo, are actively being considered for consultation with the Tournament Committee.
George O’Grady, Chief Executive of The European Tour, said: “Following the sad death of Severiano Ballesteros, we are taking time to reflect on how best The European Tour continues to honour his memory.
“The Olé Seve! Invitational event, taking place at Wentworth Club this Monday, has been in planning for many months and is just one of many ways in which the Tour will be celebrating the life of Severiano Ballesteros, as well as raising funds for his charitable foundation, Cancer Research UK.
“Seve was the inspiration behind The European Tour as it is today and it is both right and fitting that, in the fullness of time, we find the most appropriate way to acknowledge his unique contribution.”
The European Tour underwent a global rebrand in 2008, resulting in the current logo. Central to the new identity was the inclusion of Harry Vardon, considered by many to be Europe’s first touring professional. The use of Vardon’s image creates the link between the Harry Vardon Trophy, traditionally presented since 1937 to the player winning The European Tour’s Order of Merit (now called The Race to Dubai), and the Tour’s season ending finale, the Dubai World Championship. This trademark is owned by The European Tour.
In 2008, The European Tour also created the Players’ Player Award, first presented to Padraig Harrington, as the ultimate accolade bestowed upon the leading player by his peers, at the centre of which is an iconic image of Seve with the following quotation from John Jacobs, the founder of The European Tour in 1971: “Seve’s supreme talent, flair, and passion for golf inspired millions around the world.”
Severiano Ballesteros, by common accord, epitomised everything the players feel about The European Tour and his inspiration and memory will continue to be honoured.
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