Putting the world in World Challenge

The meaning behind a name can often be very telling. For the Hero World Challenge, the importance of a golf tournament’s name was nearly 20 years in the making. After 16 years of competition in the United States, the Hero World Challenge went international in 2015. With Albany hosting 18 of the top golfers in the world, the week in the Bahamas is truly an international affair.

“This is our first event that we’ve ever had outside the United States,” Tiger Woods said of the 2015 Hero World Challenge. “One of the reasons that my dad and I came up with the name ‘World Challenge’ is for us to not only have players from around the world but also travel around the world and play this event in different places besides the States. To have Hero be a part of that, a global brand, it just makes sense. For us to come here to the Bahamas, it was a no‑brainer.”

Thanks to title sponsor Hero Motocorp, one of the main highpoints of the week was the India Night party. New Delhi came to New Providence, Bahamas as guests enjoyed the sights, sounds and tastes that brought a new perspective to the Hero World Challenge.

The international affair showcased all that India has to offer, with performers, live music, exhibits and multiple food stations sampling the Indian culture’s vast cuisine. Partygoers were treated to delicious curries, kebabs, nan and much more. The fun didn’t stop at the serving stations. Guests were treated to palm readings, henna tattoos and exhibits of Indian jewelry and clothing.

Beyond the exclusive India Night party, the Hero World Challenge’s international flair makes its way onto the course as well. With competitors from Australia, England, India, Japan and the United States, the 18 players in the field embody the global reach of the Hero World Challenge.

After the first round of play, England’s Paul Casey was tied for the tournament lead with many of the international players closing in on the tournaments top spot. As the week unfolds, we are reminded that the world is truly a part of the Hero World Challenge.