The Pacific paradise setting couldn’t be better but the elements will prove testing for all Professionals out on course at this week’s Fiji International.

The Vijay Singh designed Natadola Bay Golf Course is known for its gale force winds which have been lashing the course since late last week, even Singh himself knows the difficulties faced by Pros this week.

"It’s an incredible place, the setting is unbelievable but the wind is playing havoc right now. But it’s that way for everybody and you have to get used to it," said Singh.

"I have talked to the officials and we need to slow the greens down a lot, last year it was ok but we were still being blown around. This year it’s a little bit stronger and it’s more exposed to some of the greens."

"I think if the greens are slow it will be more enjoyable to play on this course."

Tournament Operations Manager for the PGA Tour of Australasia, Graeme Scott, agreed with Singh, adding the issue around the strength of the gusts is of most concern to tournament organisers.

"The general wind speeds are acceptable, it’s when we get severe wind gusts that we’ve got the potential for balls to start moving on the green. As soon as balls start moving we have to start considering a suspension to play," said Scott.

"We have to make the course as playable as possible so that we don’t have a suspension, which means keeping the greens speeds as such or have enough grass on the greens that prevent the ball from blowing, which will mean slowing them down."

"The wind also effects the playing length of some holes, but we do have the opportunity to move some tees forward if required," he added.

As the excitement continues to build for the Fiji International, Victorian Daniel Valente is ready to put club to ball in a week that could prove testing for Professionals. 

"It’s a really nice layout but it will be a real test, it’s very windy and the elements will definitely play their part," said Valente.

"As an outdoor sport you get use to playing in theses conditions."

"It’s definitely going to be a challenge"

Valente comes to Fiji fresh from a respectable T13 finish at the South Pacific Open in Noumea a fortnight ago and as the countdown to round one of the Fiji International looms,

Valente is happy with where his game is at as he heads into Fiji’s biggest golf tournament for the first time.

"My game is going well, I played pretty good in our last event in Noumea, and it was windy there too," he said.

"I’m feeling like my game is good and I’m looking forward to the week, it’s a great place to be."

A number of PGA of Australasian Tour regulars will be among the 154 Professionals teeing it up this week’s tournament including, defending champion Steve Jeffress.

Also in the field will be local hero and Major champion, Vijay Singh and World Number 16, Matt Kuchar.

The Fiji International will be played at Natadola Bay Championship Golf Club from the 15th – 18th October and will be broadcast internationally on FoxSports.

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