The 10th edition of the Mercedes Golf Trophy in India began at the Eagleton Golf Club, Bangalore with a tee-off by Dr. Wilfried Aulbur, CEO & managing director of Mercedes-Benz India. The tee-off was also attended by the presenting partners: Puneet Chaddha, managing director and head, Commercial Banking, HSBC India and Ramnath Krishnan, managing director and head Private Banking, HSBC India.

Mercedes-Benz, for the first time introduced a ten-leg club level qualifier in India organized across ten cities- Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, Hyderabad, Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, Pune, Mumbai & Cochin. This is followed by the MercedesTrophy regional rounds which culminate at the National finals at Pune, home of the Mercedes-brand in India. The MercedesTrophy which teed-off today will also be played at Mumbai (13th March 2010) and Delhi (27th February 2010). The lucky winners will be special guests of Mercedes-Benz India at the prestigious Mercedes Trophy National Final that will be played at the exotic Aamby Valley Golf Course. The three lucky winners at the national final will get a unique chance to participate in the Mercedes Trophy World Finals- an annual congregation of the finest-proven players and Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts, organized at Stuttgart, Germany.

The highlight of the event was the ensemble “Inspired by Mercedes” where designer Manish Arora presented an ensemble for Mercedes-Benz that was a tribute to style, sophistication and elegance. Manish Arora drew inspiration from the fascinating cars for the Pure Fascination Collection. The collection showcased this evening is engineered with immense passion and detail for luxury for evoking a new sense of fascination into the world of fashion. The collection which was witnessed this evening is a stunning palette of colors, textures and fabrics from an unconventionally creative mind.

Commenting on the occasion, Dr. Wilfried Aulbur, managing director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, “The Mercedes Trophy has emerged as the largest golfing extravaganza in India. With 14 cities, 2000+ golfers and very attractive awards, MercedesTrophy is the most premier and eagerly awaited event in the Indian golfing calendar. The smooth drives of Gaganjeet Bhullar on course are complimented by the fine ensemble of Manish Arora in the evening celebrations. In all, the MercedesTrophy promises an unforgettable experience to customers and fans of the Mercedes-brand in India.”

Manish Arora commented on the partnership “Cars and fashion has been an iconic duo and Mercedes-Benz epitomizes the zenith of lifestyle. I am delighted to start this association and look forward to many exciting themes and concepts in times ahead, with the Three pointed star in India. The presentation of my collection “Inspired by Mercedes” is a good start to this association.” Gaganjeet Bhullar said, “It’s an honour for me to be associated with the iconic brand like Mercedes-Benz. Mercedes-Benz recognizes golf worldwide and the same commitment in India. I am amazed at the level of zeal and enthusiasm shown by the participants here today; keen to master the art of golf. I think that this Trophy is a great opportunity for amateur golfers to showcase their talents & hone their skills.”

Puneet Chaddha, Managing Director and head,Commercial Banking, HSBC India said, "HSBC, as sponsor of some of the world's most prestigious golfing events, has a long-standing association with Golf that spans years and continents. We are now pleased to extend this association to India through the Mercedes-Benz Golf tournament. This event will encourage and recognise golfing talent from all parts of the country." Ramnath Krishnan, managing director and head, Private Banking, HSBC India said, "This multi-city, multi-level 10th edition Mercedes Trophy tournament is an ideal platform for golfers to showcase their talent. It is only apt that this tournament is backed by two global brands - HSBC and Mercedes-Benz - that are known for their passion for quality and excellence. These are also qualities that this great game rewards."

Comments By The Readers