14 Aug 2014

Sport: Vijay Singh enjoying home surroundings as Price backs mate to win

12:45 pm on 14 August 2014

Veteran golfer Vijay Singh says it's nice to be home to compete in the inaugural Fiji International.

It's the first time the 51 year old major winner has been in Fiji since 2006 and the first time he will contest a tournament in his homeland for 35 years.

He should be familiar with the Natadola Bay course, having designed it himself, and says it's good to be back.

"It was nice roaming around my old stomping grounds where I grew up, the golf course I grew up and the house where I was brought up. It was nice and a lot of people knew me around there as well. It was nice and I'm really excited to be here".

Singh is paired with Australian duo Brendan Jones and Paul Gow for the opening two rounds.

Meanwhile fellow headliner Nick Price admits he's more than happy to play a support role behind friend and local favourite Singh.

The 57 year old Zimbabwean is the oldest player at this week's tournament but has an impressive CV including three major titles and 50 professional tournament victories.

Price plays a limited schedule these days and this is his first overseas tournament for four years, saying the beauty of Fiji and family encouragement convinced him to make the trek.

He admits his game isn't what it used to be and says he wouldn't begrudge his friend Singh a hometown victory.

"I'm just happy to come along and maybe support his role a little bit and maybe bring a little more global interest to the tournament, but he's the one that all the eyes are on this week and I'd love to see him win it - I really would. I mean I'd love to win it but my game - let's put it this way: I've got a great future behind me - I'll be happy if I make the cut and play well this week".