MEDIA RELEASE 7 November 2006 Joburg to host major golf tournament The City will once again cement itself as Africa's leading City and world-class sporting destination by hosting a professional golf tournament in January 2007. The Joburg Open will be held from 11 to 14 January 2007 at the Royal Johannesburg and Kensington Golf Club with a prize of 1million Euros or approximately R9m for the winner. This makes it one of the richest tournaments in the country. It will be staged for the next three years under the auspices of the Southern Africa PGA as well as the European Tour. Some big names will be among the 240 golfers that will converge in Joburg for the tournament. The Executive Mayor of Johannesburg Councillor Amos Masondo says "The Joburg Open will be televised nationally and globally to 181 million homes in over 30 countries across six continents during the four days". The estimated publicity of the event is valued at R75m. "We expect to generate revenue of about R33m from tourists, local spectators, golfers, entertainment and investment in facilities as well as creating employment" says the Mayor. Continuing he says, "Joburg is hosting the event in partnership with EasyGolf Worldwide, Supersport TV and Gauteng Economic Development Agency as an inclusive event that dispels the elitist image of golf". "A key objective of the tournament is to raise funds for the establishment of a development driving range and educational facility near Diepsloot" says Mayor Masondo. It will also be a huge opportunity to create awareness of Joburg and South Africa as a tourism gateway. Ends Issued on behalf of the Executive Mayor of Johannesburg, Councillor Amos Masondo, by: Virgil James Spokesperson Public Liaison Telephone: 011 407 7226 cell. 082 467 9415 Facsimile: 011 403 3494 email: virgilj@joburg.org.za