Turkish Airlines Open gets off to explosive start

On the eve of the second Turkish Airlines Open by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Ryder Cup heroes Martin Kaymer and Victor Dubuisson went head to head in a target challenge from the balcony of the Maxx Royal Belek Golf Resort, the tournament’s official hotel partner.

The specially-constructed targets were placed in the hotel’s lagoon pool, with both competitors taking alternate shots in a match play format.

Despite hitting one target to Kaymer’s two, defending champion Dubuisson was declared the winner as his final effort hit the mark some 90 yards away.

With fireworks lighting up the night sky in Belek, it was a fittingly spectacular start to the second edition of the US$7million Turkish Airlines Open, the penultimate event of the 2014 European Tour season.

Following his victory, Dubuisson said: “That was a great way to start the week. Trying to hit targets in a swimming pool is a little bit different to trying to hit flags, but hopefully I can take this form onto the golf course this week.”

Kaymer said: “This is how golf should be played – under floodlights with fireworks! I think everyone was really impressed with the course and the hotel last year, and this year looks even better. This is a big week for The European Tour and for us players, and the Maxx Royal is a great venue.”

Mehmet Ersoy, Chief Executive Officer of ETStur, owner of the Maxx Royal and Voyage hotel groups, said: “Last night was a great opportunity to mark our close ties with both The European Tour and the Turkish Airlines Open. The Maxx Royal brand is all about offering luxury, and last night was a fitting way to mark the second Turkish Airlines Open at the Montgomerie Maxx Royal.

“We’re honoured to have so many of the world’s best players here this week, and Martin and Victor put on a great show for our guests. We wish both players every success in the Turkish Airlines Open and a winning end to the season.”