Kent's 'Regal Golf Coast' to host final Open qualifiers

Three links courses on Kent's 'Regal Golf Coast' have been selected to host final qualifying for the 2011 Open Championship at Royal St George's.

Littlestone, Prince's and Royal Cinque Ports Golf Clubs have all been given 'major' parts to play when the Open arrives in Kent next summer.

Royal Cinque Ports and Prince's already have significant Open pedigree. Royal Cinque Ports hosted golf's oldest Major in 1909 and 1920, and Prince's did likewise in 1932.

Littlestone, a classic links sandwiched between Romney Marsh and the English Channel, was selected by the R&A after being commended by golf's governing body for the quality of its greens.

In a special report, the R&A said: "The greens are magnificent and they are some of the best examples of firm, true and well-paced putting greens in the UK."

Sandra Matthews-Marsh, chief executive of 'Visit Kent' said: "The Open coming to Kent is a wonderful opportunity to show golfers everywhere what outstanding, natural links courses this county has to offer.

"Kent, and our 'Regal Golf Coast', really are world-class golf destinations."

Kent's other courses were also involved in Open qualifying for the 2010 tournament at St Andrews.

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