The Bahamas is being promoted as the premier destination of choice on the pro golf circuit, during the Pure Silk-Bahamas LGPA Classic running February 5-9 at the Ocean Club Golf Course.

Director general of tourism Joy Jibrilu was interviewed by the Golf Channel, during which she officially welcomed the women golfers and golf fans to The Bahamas, which will be showcased in 10 hours of live coverage.

“On behalf of the Government and people of the Islands of the Bahamas, it is my distinct pleasure to welcome you to the 2015 Pure Silk-Bahamas LPGA Classic. We are pleased that the Ocean Club Golf Course on Paradise Island is hosting this elite competition, featuring some of the biggest names in women’s golf,” she said.

Now in its third year, the Pure Silk-Bahamas LPGA Classic attracts 120 golfers to compete on the Tom Weiskopf-designed Ocean Club Golf Course located on the eastern end of Paradise Island.

The field is headed by Rolex World Rankings No 1 Lydia Ko; No 2 Inbee Park; and No 3 Stacy Lewis, the 2014 LPGA Rolex Player of the Year. Six of the top 10 players in the current Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings are entered. The Bahamas’ own Raquel Riley is also competing in the tournament.

Despite reports by the Bahamas Information Services and other news outlets that the tournament purse is $41.3 million, it is actually $1.3 million, plus a full allocation of points in the Race to the CME Globe season-long competition.

Executives of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism also attended the Pairings Party of the tourney at the Great Hall of Waters, Royal Towers, Atlantis Paradise Island.

Pictured: Director General of Tourism Joy Jibrilu addresses the party February 4, Paradise Island. (Photo Gabe Roux/Pure Silk-Bahamas LPGA Classic)

Pictured with performers in Bahamas Junkanoo costumes are: Deputy director general of tourism Ellison Thompson (left); President and managing director of Kerzner International Bahamas Ltd George Markantonis (centre); and director general of tourism Joy Jibrilu. (Photo Gabe Roux/Pure Silk-Bahamas LPGA Classic)