World Corporate Golf Challenge (WCGC) confirmed today that Spanish professional golfer Manuel Piñero will once again become a WCGC Global Ambassador at the 2015 World Final from the 30 June – 5 July in Cascais, Portugal.
Manuel Piñero turned professional in 1968 and established himself on the European Tour in the early 1970s. He won nine titles on the European Tour, the most prestigious of them the 1977 British PGA Championship. He featured in the top ten on the European Tour Order of Merit five times, including back to back fourth places in 1976 and 1977.
Manuel played for Europe in two Ryder Cups. In 1981 he defeated Jerry Pate 2 & 1 in his singles match. In 1985 he claimed four points out of five for the team which captured the trophy from the United States for the first time since 1957, defeating Lanny Wadkins 3 & 1 in singles. He was also a member of Spain’s two man team at the World Cup of Golf nine times, collecting the team title in 1976 and 1982. On the latter occasion he also won the individual title.
In 1991, 1993 and 1995 Manuel Pinero was European Vice Captain in the Ryder Cup.
Since turning fifty in 2002 Piñero has played on the European Seniors Tour.
“I am delighted to be a World Corporate Golf Challenge Global Ambassador. Last year’s event was spectacular so I am excited to be returning to the World Finals, this time in Casais”, said Piñero.
Piñero said, “Golf has given me some wonderful opportunities and not least the possibility to start my own business. As a professional golfer I forged some wonderful relationships over the years and this is why I am excited about my role with the WCGC, an event that connects business people through the game I love. This is a great event and I look forward to being part of it and meeting everyone during the week.”
Harry Lloyd, WCGC Event Director commented, “We are delighted to retain Manuel Piñero as a WCGC Ambassador. He entertained all in attendance at last year’s World Final, so it was an easy choice to ask Manuel to extend his agreement. The competitors, license holders, sponsors and guests will all have a fantastic chance to meet with him and hear all about his career during the 2015 World Final week.”
Manuel Pinero’s Career Highlights/Achievements
The list of achievements of “Manolo” is one of the most complete amongst European players, with a total of 21 national and international victories:
International
- 1974, Madrid Open
- 1976, Swiss Open
- 1977, Penfold PGA Championship
- 1980, Mazda Cars English Classic
- 1981, Madrid Open, Swiss Open
- 1982, European Open Championship, Individual World Cup
- 1985, Cepsa Madrid Open, Italian Open
Team International
- 1981, 1985, Ryder Cup
- 1991, 1993, 1995, Ryder Cup Vice Captain
- 1976, World Cup with Seve Ballesteros
- 1982, World Cup with José Mª Cañizares
National Spanish Champion
- Spanish Champion: 1973, 1974, 1983, 1984, 1989
- Spanish Doubles Champion: 1976 with Salvador Balbuena, 1984 with Antonio Garrido and 1985 with his brother Alfonso.
