Accenture Match Play returns to Marana

In February, 64 of the world’s top golfers traveled to Marana to take part in one of golf’s most exciting and unique events.

They will be doing it again in five months.

The 2008 World Golf Championships-Accenture Match Play Championship will be back at the South Course at Dove Mountain.

The tournament is scheduled to begin on Feb. 18, 2008, with the championship round taking place on Feb. 24.

Tickets for corporate hospitality and daily ticket packages began Sept. 4. Daily tickets go on sale January 2008.

Henrik Stenson of Sweden took home the 2007 championship, outlasting a stellar field and defeating 2006 champion Geoff Ogilvy 2 and 1 in the 36-hole finale.

Among the notable golfers expected to participate are Ernie Els, Phil Mickelson, Arizona graduate Jim Furyk, and of course, current FedEx Cup points leader Tiger Woods.

The format follows the popular NCAA college basketball bracket, with the top 64 golfers being arranged into four brackets.

After the players use practice rounds on Monday and Tuesday to get used to the desert climate and course layout, the single-elimination tournament will begin on Wednesday, Feb. 20, where the golfers will compete for the $8 million purse.

The tournament is produced through the joint efforts of the International Federation of PGA Tours and the Tucson Conquistadores.

Charitable proceeds will benefit The First Tee and other Arizona charities to be determined through the coordination of the tournament staff and the Tucson Conquistadores.

The 2007 tournament raised approximately $1.5 million for youth charities.

Tickets may be purchased by visiting www.worldgolfchampionships.com or by calling 866-942-2672.

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