Seve

I have just logged into the official web site - www.opengolf.com - of the 150th Open Championship and read the disappointing news that the legendary Seve Balesteros has been advised by his doctors not to make the journey to St. Andrews in July. A great shame that his supporters will not be able to see him play upon the Old Course once again but his long term health must take priority. The article follows:

24 June 2010 16:43 GMT

On 22 June, three-time Open Champion Severiano Ballesteros visited his doctors at La Paz Hospital in Madrid. During his visit, Ballesteros underwent tests which he repeats every three months. These check-ups are routine and monitor the progress of the Spaniard following his diagnosis of a brain tumor in October 2008.

The medical team, which is responsible for Ballesteros’ well-being, have informed him that at this time he should not put himself under any undue stress, or in potentially emotional situations. It is for this reason that they have advised him against travelling to the 150th Anniversary Open Championship at St Andrews.

From La Paz Hospital, Dr Belda, the oncologist who looks after the five-time Major winner , explained that “despite the excellent general state that Mr Ballesteros enjoys, we do not think the trip to Scotland, this coming July, would be appropriate. It is important that Mr Ballesteros continues with a peaceful life and our advice has been not to travel to Scotland.”

After hearing the doctors’ opinions, Ballesteros said: “I very much wanted to be at The Open in St Andrews next month to personally thank all the golf fans and friends who have given me their support, not only during these two years, when I have been recovering from my illness but also to thank them for the affection they have shown during my golf career.

“I am aware that there might be people who have been preparing their trip to encourage and cheer me up. Hence, I do not want to disappoint anyone at the last minute and after listening to the doctors’ advice I have taken the difficult decision not to travel to St Andrews.”

The Chief Executive of The R&A, Peter Dawson, said: “I am deeply saddened to learn that Seve will not be able to join us at St Andrews. Everyone at The R&A has been heartened to hear of his positive progress in recovering from this terrible illness. We wish Seve the very best in his on-going treatment and, though he will be missed at this year’s Open Championship, we are pleased that all precautions are being taken to aid in his recovery.”

The Open Champions’ Challenge will take place on Wednesday 14 July, commencing at 3.40pm. 27 Champions are scheduled to take part in the event, in which teams of three or four will compete for a prize of £50,000, to be donated to a charity of the winning team’s choice.