With this year’s VCD Open also incorporating the final of the inaugral Stableford Knockout competition, the tournament organisers have announced a new format for the opening day’s play.

The lead group will now consist of the defending VCD Open champion and the two Stableford Knockout finalists. In the event that a fourth golfer is required, the next highest placed golfer in the current year’s Order of Merit will make up an elite fourball, with all other groups being drawn from the hat.

That sees defending champion, Brain Norris open proceedings in a group also containing Knockout finalists David Dine and Matt Norris.

Defending Champion: Brian Norris

The move hopes to add a little spice to the Tour’s flagship event, creating added pressure in the “Marquee” group and providing a dramatic conclusion to the season’s finale.

With prizemoney being offered for the tournament winner, the Stableford Knockout winner and the Order of Merit winner, there’s much still to be resolved at The Belfry later this month.

With David Dine leading the Order of Merit and favourite to beat Matt Norris in the Stableford Knockout final, the veteran has set his sights emphatically on the treble.

“My focus is simply on winning the tournament. If that happens, then the other two will take care of themselves,” warned Dine.

Treble Chance: David Dine