Flamboyant young American Rickie Fowler is a confirmed starter for the Australian PGA Championship to be played at RACV Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast from November 7 to 10.

The PGA of Australia announced today that Fowler, 24, will return to our shores for the first time since competing in the event in 2011.

“I love Australia. I’ve been there a handful of times and this will be my second professional event there. I haven’t found a part of Australia I haven’t liked yet,” said Fowler, who finished tied for 14th on his last visit to the PGA.

“I’m definitely showing up there to win and play my best but I’m also looking forward to seeing a little more of Australia.”

Rickie Fowler last played the Australian PGA in 2011, when he finished tied for 14th.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED BY PGA OF AUSTRALIA

Known not only for his golf ability, the current World No.34 is just as recognisable for his colourful style and love for all things ‘extreme’ and says he’s looking forward to exploring the Gold Coast during his Australian return.

“I haven’t been to the Gold Coast but I’m definitely looking forward to it. The Australian PGA is a great event and I hope to do a bit of sightseeing as well,” he said.

“I love spending time at the beach. I wouldn’t mind getting out for some fishing, maybe some diving… who knows.”

Fowler will be one of the stars of the event alongside 2013 Masters Champion and Gold Coast local hero Adam Scott.

Brian Thorburn, CEO of the PGA of Australia, said the PGA didn’t need to think twice in inviting Rickie back to Australia.

“Rickie is a huge hit with the crowds wherever he goes and he made plenty of new fans on his last trip to Queensland,” he said.

“With the Championship now based on the Gold Coast, we had absolutely no hesitation in inviting Rickie back, and we’re looking forward to showing him the Gold Coast’s renowned lifestyle.”

The 2013 Australian PGA Championship will be the first major PGA Tour of Australasia tournament staged on the Gold Coast in ten years. Tickets for the tournament went on sale today at www.ticketek.com.au with children 16 years and under to again be admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Discounts are also available for members of RACV and affiliated motoring clubs as well as for Gold Coast residents.

The Australian PGA Championship presented by Coca-Cola will again be co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour of Australasia and OneAsia.