Promoting takes it’s toll – Jimenez

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Miguel Angel Jimenez admits that organising the Open de Andalucia has taken its toll during the past few months.

Miguel Angel Jimenez has admitted that promoting and organising the Open de Andalucia has taken its toll during the past few months.

The 47-year-old Spaniard will be in action in Malaga this week but also doubles up as the promoter of the European Tour event.

He will be hosting fellow veterans Colin Montgomerie and Ernie Els, as well as younger stars such as Alvaro Quiros and Matteo Manassero.

Ahead of the start of play on Thursday, Jimenez says that his game has been affected by the hectic nature of his run-up to the tournament.

“It has been impossible to concentrate and practise for the last three months – too many phone calls and meetings, trying to find sponsors in a difficult financial climate,” he told the European Tour’s website.

“The most difficult part is to do so many things around the event – the media requirements, dinners, meetings with sponsors, politicians, making the players welcome.

“My mind tends to be all over the place and it comes as a relief when you get onto the first tee and you can then focus on your game.

“I am what I am thanks to golf and this is my way of giving back to Andalucia what I have achieved in 23 years on the European Tour.

“Golf in Andalucia is much more than just a sport – it has become an industry and, although we are going through difficult times, it generates many employees.”

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