Cam Smith to play in both the Australian PGA and Queensland PGA championships

Cam Smith’s preparations for a tilt at a fourth Australian PGA title will include playing in a second event in Queensland this year.

Cam Smith’s bid for Australian PGA redemption has convinced him to play two events in his home state of Queensland this year.

The 2022 British Open champion will not only return to Royal Queensland for a shot at a fourth Australian PGA title in November, he will also contest the Queensland PGA a few weeks earlier at Nudgee Golf Club.

“This year, I’ll be playing in both the BMW Australian PGA Championship and the Queensland PGA Championship, which is going to be something different for me but I’m really looking forward to both weeks back home,” Smith confirmed.

“I think playing at Nudgee will be good preparation for Royal Queensland and hopefully will have me at my best to attempt to take back the Joe Kirkwood Cup (by winning the Australian PGA).”

Smith, 31, won the Australian PGA crown in 2017, 2018 and 2022 but last year was distraught after his title defence ended after just two rounds after missing the cut with a 36-hole score of nine-over 151.

“It’s not acceptable. It’s very upsetting, actually,” he said at the time while choking back tears.

Cam Smith didn’t enjoy his Queensland return in 2023 (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

LIV star Smith intends on returning to the top of the leaderboard this year at Royal Queensland and is also eyeing success at the October 31-November 3 Queensland PGA, an event in which he finished joint runner-up in 2015 behind New Zealand’s Ryan Fox at City Golf Club in Toowoomba.

“Coming home to Queensland is a highlight of my year,” he said.

“It’s always special to be back playing in front of my family, friends and all the golf fans and hopefully being up near the lead.

“Of course I’d love to win both but it’s going to be difficult with the fields that will be at the two tournaments.”

Others chasing glory at the November 21-24 Australian PGA – an event co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour of Australasia and the DP World Tour – include defending champion Min Woo Lee and former world No.1 Jason Day, who both represented Australia at this year’s Paris Olympics.

Smith’s Australian schedule also includes the November 14-17 NSW Open at the Murray Downs Golf and Country Club.

Cam’s chipping over a fence practice 😲

13/15 chips within a few feet. One fence & one pole hit 🤣#RipperGC#LIVGolfpic.twitter.com/7yDTaJaVGF

— Ripper GC (@rippergc_) September 12, 2024

PGA of Australia chief executive officer said Smith “appealed to all ages of golf fans”.

“We all love seeing Cam playing golf back in Australia,” Kirkman said.

“I’m sure he’ll be determined to put on a great show in front of his home crowd this year at both Royal Queensland and Nudgee.

“Winning the Joe Kirkwood Cup for the fourth time would consolidate his position as one of the greats of Australian golf.”

Queensland Minister for Tourism and Sport Michael Healy said it was a “coup” luring the “legendary” Smith home again.

“The (Australian PGA) line-up is already looming as the hottest ticket in town,” Healy said.

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said: “We are thrilled Cam Smith will join a suite of world class athletes to tee off at two must-see events for local and visiting golf fans.

“The benefits of these elite tournaments will be felt across the region, delivering millions in economic support for local Brisbane businesses.”