What Is 2011 PGA Tour of Australasia

Overview

The 2011 PGA Tour of Australasia served as the primary men’s professional golf circuit in Australia and New Zealand. Though named for 2011, the season began in November 2010 and concluded in February 2012 to align with the Southern Hemisphere summer schedule.

This structure allowed for optimal weather conditions and coordination with international tours. The tour functioned as a developmental and competitive platform for players aiming to qualify for global circuits like the PGA Tour or European Tour.

• Adam Scott won the Order of Merit with A$374,485 in prize money, marking his dominance despite limited appearances.
• The season featured 15 official events, including flagship tournaments like the Australian Open and New Zealand Open.
• Events were hosted across seven Australian states and territories and one in New Zealand, showcasing regional diversity.
• The tour was sanctioned by the PGA of Australia, which has governed the circuit since its founding in 1973.
• It formed part of the International Federation of PGA Tours, granting world ranking points and global recognition.

How It Works

The PGA Tour of Australasia operates as a season-long competition where players earn points and prize money based on tournament finishes. Its structure supports both local talent and international participants seeking Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points.

• Order of Merit: This ranking is based on prize money earned in official events. The 2011 winner, Adam Scott, earned A$374,485, securing the top spot.
• Eligibility: Players must be professional golfers. The tour welcomed international competitors, including stars like Jason Day and Robert Allenby.
• Schedule Format: The 2011 season spanned 14 months from November 2010 to February 2012, accommodating cross-calendar play.
• OWGR Points: Select events awarded Official World Golf Ranking points, with the Australian Open offering the most at 48 points.
• Co-sanctioning: Some tournaments were co-sanctioned with the Asian Tour or European Tour, increasing prize funds and field strength.
• Development Role: The tour serves as a pathway for players to advance to the PGA Tour or LIV Golf, with strong performances boosting rankings.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of key metrics from the 2011 PGA Tour of Australasia against other major tours during the same season.

While the Australasian tour had fewer events and lower prize money than its global counterparts, it played a crucial role in player development. Its co-sanctioned events with larger tours helped bridge competitive gaps and provided exposure for emerging golfers.

Why It Matters

The 2011 PGA Tour of Australasia was more than just a regional circuit—it was a vital stepping stone for golfers aiming at international careers. Its integration with global ranking systems and co-sanctioning agreements elevated its status beyond a local league.

• Player Development: The tour nurtured future stars like Jason Day, who used it as a springboard to PGA Tour success.
• Global Integration: Co-sanctioning with the European Tour allowed players to earn world ranking points and gain international experience.
• Economic Impact: Events like the Australian Open generated millions in tourism and local revenue, boosting host cities.
• Pathway to Majors: Strong finishes helped players qualify for major championships like The Open and the PGA Championship.
• Regional Representation: It promoted golf across Oceania, encouraging participation in remote areas of Australia and New Zealand.
• Historical Legacy: The tour has produced legends like Greg Norman and Adam Scott, reinforcing its importance in golf history.

By blending competitive rigor with developmental focus, the 2011 season exemplified how regional tours contribute to the global golf ecosystem.