Above: the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay

Jamaica believes golf has the potential to help position the country as a sports tourism destination, according to Sports Minister Olivia Grange.

“I believe that we have a competitive advantage in golf,” she said, speaking at the 48th Jamaica Open tournament. “It is no secret that we have some of the best golf courses in the world. But, importantly as well, we have the facilities and the people to support the hosting of international golf tournaments in Jamaica.”

Jamaica was named the Caribbean’s best sports tourism destination at the World Tourism Awards this year, and the country’s Half Moon Hotel was called its best golf resort.

The Half Moon has been the site of the Jamaica Open for the last four years.

“We recognize that golf has the potential to enhance the building of our strategic major events and sports tourism thrust,” she said. “I am making the pitch to the professional tournament organisers who are looking for new venues, come to Jamaica, we are open for business.”

–Jamaica Information Service