Impending war makes players nervous about Qatar Masters

EUROPEAN PGA tour players were in a quandary last night over whether or not to play in next week’s Qatar Masters tournament because of the military build-up against Iraq.

The tour's executive director Ken Schofield has said the $1.4 million event will go ahead despite growing fears of war in the region, leaving it up to the players to decide for themselves by Saturday's deadline.

In a terse statement to the players yesterday, Schofield said: "All preparations including golf course, accommodation and transportation are complete and secure. Additional contingencies are in place should eventualities require."