Olympic golf course will be a great test for golfers: Garcia

Spanish golfer Sergio Garcia feels the Olympic Games golf course would demand a bit of creativity and imagination and will be a great test for the golfers around the world.

“I haven’t actually had a chance to look at the course in-depth yet. But from what I’ve seen, it looks very interesting and might demand a bit of creativity and imagination,” Garcia said. “As it’s a newly built course, it will be new for all the players. It’ll be a great test that we will all share for the first time together.”

Golf will make a comeback at the Rio Olympics since the 1904 Summer Games and Garcia said even competing at the mega-event will be a dream come true for him. “Ever since I was young, I’ve loved watching the Olympic Games, but I never imagined I would one day be a part of it, especially because golf has not been included in over 100 years. But now it’s back and just being there will be a dream come true,” he said.

The 36-year-old, who plays on the PGA Tour and the European Tour, believes the return of golf in Olympics will help the sport to grow around the globe.

“There are still many countries around the world where golf is not really present. However, the Olympic Games will be watched by billions of people and I think this will be a rare but significant opportunity to showcase our sport and show how enjoyable and exciting it is. It’s truly a great moment to share and grow the game,” said Garcia, who has won over 20 international tournaments, including The Players Championship in 2008.

With OMEGA set to introduce new scoreboards in golf for the benefit of spectators, Garcia said it will enhance the experience of following the sports for the fans.