The International knows it can always count on Ernie Els.
His loyalty having never wavered, Els committed to play in the 20th International from Aug. 4-7 at Castle Pines Golf Club, tournament officials announced Thursday. In 1991, the affable South African, then a relatively unknown 21-year-old, accepted a sponsor’s invitation to play in The International.
Els, third in the world rankings behind leader Tiger Woods and Vijay Singh, has never missed an opportunity to return. This will mark his 15th consecutive appearance in The International.
“The International was the first PGA Tour event that Ernie ever played, and like golf fans across the state, we look forward to Ernie’s return every year,” said Larry Thiel, executive director of the tournament.
During an interview this year, Els recalled his excitement about playing in the United States. His first experience on this continent came in 1984 in San Diego when he won the world under-14 championship.
“As a kid, especially a golfing kid, you want to come to America,” Els said. “You see Augusta National on television and you see the U.S. Open. You really want to get there and see what the courses are like.”
Els earned $2,647 in his 1991 debut at Castle Pines and failed to make the cut to Sunday. Fourteen years later, he ranks as the event’s all-time points and money leader. He hoisted The International’s trophy in 2000, one of his 15 career victories on the PGA Tour, including three major championships. He has won three times on the 2005 European Tour.
Other marquee players who have committed to this year’s event include Phil Mickelson, Sergio Garcia, Retief Goosen and Fred Couples. Other entrants announced Thursday include Stephen Ames, Jonathan Byrd, Stewart Cink, Mark Hensby, Joe Ogilvie, Geoff Ogilvy and Duffy Waldorf.
Tom Kensler can be reached at 303-820-5456 or tkensler@denverpost.com.
