Celebrity Cook-Off on the eve of Turkish Airlines Open 2016

Thai style met British beef on Wednesday evening as two of the world’s leading golf professionals put on an outstanding performance in the kitchen ahead of the start of the 4th Turkish Airlines Open. With the world famous tournament started in Antalya this morning, a selection of golfers put their culinary skills to work and had great fun doing so!

Thongchai Jaidee from Thailand faced Englishman Andrew ‘Beef Johnston’ as the pair prepared iconic Turkish dishes ‘Shepherds’ Lamb Saute’ and ‘Beef Kofte’, flanked by two Turkish Airlines stewardesses. With all the ingredients they needed, both players skillfully prepared two excellent and traditional dishes which were very much enjoyed.

The winning dish was judged by Turkish Golf Federation President, Mr. Ahmet Agaoglu, who decided Jaidee produced the well-presented and best tasting meal.

The Thai star, who owns a restaurant, won two Turkish Airlines Business Class flights anywhere in the world for his impressive display in the kitchen. He said; “I have my own restaurant and I like to cook. Normally I cook Thai and Chinese but it was great fun to cook in competition. We had a great experience and I’m grateful that Turkish Airlines picked me to be part of the competition and to be able to learn something about a different culture; the rich culture of traditional Turkish cuisine.”

After seeing his effort finish second Johnston said; “I’m gutted I lost but it was good fun. I learned something different. Thongchai did well and won because he owns his own restaurant!”

Jaidee, an eight-time winner on the European Tour, and Johnston, who will play on the PGA Tour next year, are two of 78 players competing in the 4th staging of the Turkish Airlines Open.

This is the second time the Gourmet Golf Challenge has been held – with Rory McIlroy and Charl Schwartzel finishing in a draw in 2015.

Turkish Airlines’ Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications Ms. Seda Kalyoncu said; “It was great to see Thongchai and ‘Beef’ get a taste of Turkish cooking and to learn a little more about our culture. The cook-off was enjoyed by many! Maybe both participants will now go on to try these recipes at home and come back and have another go next year.”

Turkish Airlines started their sponsorship of Turkish Airlines Open in 2013. It is hoped the agreement will be extended second time and Turkish Airlines will continue to host the European Tour tournament, which currently runs for two more years.