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Apr 30th, 2024
Clutch Pro Tour events elevated for OWGR points
.... but LIV remain out
The Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) has made a groundbreaking announcement: it will start doling out ranking points to the Clutch Pro Tour, renowned for its compact 54-hole events.
After 17-month application process, the Clutch Pro Tour, recognized as a feeder tour to the Challenge Tour and DP World Tour, has finally earned its spot in the esteemed OWGR system. Starting April 28, it will begin awarding points to players competing in its events.
Each Clutch Pro Tour spectacle features three intense 18-hole rounds, with a cut after 36 holes. The qualifying series for its 2024 season unfolded in the United Arab Emirates, and for 2025, a fresh open qualifying school is on the agenda. While most events are held in the south and southeast of England, last year saw tournaments in Northern Ireland and Wales as well.
Each Clutch Pro Tour spectacle features three intense 18-hole rounds, with a cut after 36 holes. The qualifying series for its 2024 season unfolded in the United Arab Emirates, and for 2025, a fresh open qualifying school is on the agenda. While most events are held in the south and southeast of England, last year saw tournaments in Northern Ireland and Wales as well.
Peter Dawson, OWGR chairman, elucidated the decision, remarking, “The Clutch Pro Tour has been instrumental in the UK golf scene, especially post the EuroPro Tour's closure. It provides a vital pathway for players eyeing the European Challenge Tour and the DP World Tour. Moreover, it offers regional talent ample opportunities, culminating in a thrilling season-ending Championship. It perfectly aligns with OWGR's Eligibility and Format Criteria.”
“This is a significant moment for golf,” Dawson emphasised, underlining the pivotal role the Clutch Pro Tour plays in nurturing regional talent.
Since its inception in 2019, the Clutch Pro Tour has emerged as the premier golf event facilitator in the UK, filling the void left by the EuroPro Tour's conclusion in 2022. Renamed the Mizuno Next Gen Series in 2023 following a partnership with the Japanese brand, the Clutch Pro Tour continues its stride into 2024.
In December 2022, it was revealed that the Clutch Pro Tour and Paul Lawrie's Tartan Pro Tour would serve as official feeder tours to the Challenge Tour. Initially, the top two players on the Clutch Order of Merit would ascend to the second tier of European golf, a quota extended to the top three players for the 2024 season.
In December 2022, it was revealed that the Clutch Pro Tour and Paul Lawrie's Tartan Pro Tour would serve as official feeder tours to the Challenge Tour. Initially, the top two players on the Clutch Order of Merit would ascend to the second tier of European golf, a quota extended to the top three players for the 2024 season.
In contrast, LIV Golf's bid for OWGR points for its 14-event, 54-hole series faced rejection earlier this year. The decision stemmed from the league's primarily invitation-based entry system, with only three players securing spots after a qualification event in Dubai. Additionally, LIV Golf League events lack a cut, further contributing to the OWGR's decision.
