Port Royal Golf Course will host the PGA Grand Slam of Golf in 2009 and 2010, it was announced today.

Premier Dr. Ewart Brown revealed the news at a press conference an hour before this year’s prestigious event at the Mid Ocean Club teed off this morning.

The Premier added that Port Royal — currently undergoing $14 million renovations — would be reopened to the public next January.

“We are so proud to extend our valued partnership with The PGA of America and the Grand Slam of Golf,” said Dr. Brown.

“We are especially proud to have an event as prestigious as the Grand Slam at Port Royal — a spectacular public golf course that belongs to the people of Bermuda and speaks loudly to our country’s commitment to the game.”

Brian Whitcomb, PGA Grand Slam America President, said: “Bermuda’s combination of unmatched hospitality and community support for the PGA Grand Slam of Golf has enhanced the season-ending meeting of the game’s elite foursome. We look forward to working with all of our friends in Bermuda in presenting the PGA Grand Slam of Golf next fall to the world.”

This year’s Grand Slam, starring Jim Furyk, Padraig Harrington, Trevor Immelman and Retief Goosen, got underway amid overcast conditions at 11 a.m.

For the full story, see tomorrow’s Royal Gazette.