The 2014 DIGICEL Vanuatu Open tees off this week with a talented field of 37 PGA professionals from more than six countries vying for one of the most sought after trophies in the South Pacific.

Three time champion Brad McIntosh has returned to try his hand on the classic Port Vila Country Club layout which rests on the white sands of the Pacific Ocean.

"I’m always excited to return to Vanuatu" said McIntosh who last won the event in 2012.

"The course is wonderful and the people always really support the event and visiting professionals.

"I have really made this event a home away from home so I’m excited to return and hopefully play some good golf" added the talented lefty.

The $40,000AUD prize purse will be on offer and once again the event is part of the Australian Choice Hotels PGA Pro-Am Series.

Joining McIntosh will be big hitting 2009 champion Jason King from Sydney, New Zealand’s Brad Shilton and Kieran Muir, both proven to be consistent performers in South Pacific events and will lead a strong kiwi contingent next week.

King and McIntosh both currently hold the tournament record with 72-hole tournament totals of 25-under-par (263).

"These are great events for New Zealand professionals and players from other countries in the region to take part in and compete against the best from Australia" says Shilton.

Event organisers were delighted to bring on DIGICEL as the naming rights sponsor for the 2014 Open and locals are excited to see some wonderful golf over the four days of competition which begins next Thursday morning.

Joining the professionals will be amateurs from Australia, New Zealand and local enthusiasts from Vanuatu who will play alongside the professionals in each day of competition.

The event marks a pivotal moment on the NSW/ACT Pro-Am circuit as players target the divisional order of merit title which is decided on prize money earned in the season.

Play gets underway on Thursday morning at Port Vila Country Club with tee times starting from 7:00am local time.