Spettacolo
Grand Tirolia, Elena Baturina's Flagship Hotel, Hosts Million Dollar Golf Shootout
The finalists from across the globe enjoyed a paid trip to the mountains to try and win the $1 million jackpot in one shot. The adventure saw the legendary former England striker Alan Shearer join Marissa L'Estrange, Australia , Jose Pinto Da Silva , Portugal and Merja Salminen , Finland on the 150-yard par-three second hole.
Regrettably, no-one managed the million-dollar shot this time, though all agreed it had been an amazing experience.
The football icon, three-time Golden Boot winner Shearer, and ambassador for the Million Dollar Club, said: "It was a fantastic event in an amazing place. The course was superb and the resort is just incredible. I am just sad I was unable to play myself as I am recovering from an arm injury."
The resort's owner Elena Baturina - herself an avid golfer - was delighted to welcome the 'Million Dollar Hole in One' finalists, and assured guests that she would be keen to host such an event again in the future. She said: "To manage such a shot is every golfer's dream. I fully understand the thrill and excitement of the finalists - a grand challenge that would make anyone's head turn. I congratulate all the participants and guests, and am proud that Grand Tirolia has proven to be a worthy location for such an extraordinary event."
On site, the finalists and guests were welcomed by general manager Burkhard Wolter and golf manager Dominik Kremper : "It was an exciting couple of days and we are so happy that everyone enjoyed the atmosphere at the hotel and our golf course, Eichenheim."
MDHIO director Martin Tyrrell added: "Unfortunately, no-one scooped the $1 million , but everyone has thoroughly enjoyed themselves in an incredible resort that has breath-taking views."
Grand Tirolia, the first development in Elena Baturina's hotel chain, is located in the middle of the Eichenheim golf club in Kitzbühel, Austria . Opened in 2009, the five-star hotel has 82 rooms and employs over 90 people.