Masters chef: Simon heading to Augusta to prepare dish of champions

A Fife golf fanatic will play a key role at this weekend’s Masters tournament in Augusta, Georgia teeing up a delicious dish for the event’s winner.

Simon Whitley, director of food and beverage at the Old Course Hotel in St Andrews, is flying to the States today after he was named in the team of chefs hand-picked from across the globe to cater for the champion’s cocktail party.

Tradition dictates the wearer of the green jacket presented on Sunday chooses the menu to be enjoyed at the party.

“Being a little nervous is probably a good thing,” Simon said. “It would be wrong not to be given the enormity of the occasion.”

Simon was personally invited to take part by Bruce Sacino, Augusta’s director of culinary operations. The menu is based on finger-fork foods of past champions’ dinners at the Augusta National.

Daniel Pereira, general manager at the Old Course resort, said, “An event such as this is very special, not only for the credence it gives to the resort but most importantly for the recognition it gives to Simon.”