Martin Kaymer joins BMW team in Germany

PGA European Tour star Martin Kaymer recently swapped the fairways for the fast lane at BMW's testing facility in Aschheim, Germany. Kaymer, who is currently ranked 16th in the Race to Dubai rankings, completed an extensive BMW driver training course during a visit to the 2009 BMW International Open press conference.

Guided by experienced instructors, the German familiarised himself with some of BMW's most desirable vehicles, including the M3 and the new Z4 Roadster.

The highlight of the day was the surprise appearance of BMW works driver Jörg Müller, who invited Kaymer to join him for a ride in the passenger seat of his BMW 320si WTCC race car.

“Wow, this definitely was the coolest drive I have ever experienced,” Kaymer beamed.

"As I see it, motor racing and golf are closely related when it comes to precision and concentration," added Müller.

In 2008, Kaymer became the first German to win the BMW International Open after defeating Dane Anders Hansen in a dramatic play-off. The young man from Düsseldorf will be looking to go one better this time around when the event returns in June, in his attempt to become the first person to successfully defend the title in the tournament's rich 20-year history.

Where next? Lengthened Turnberry ready for 2009 Open Championship The Race to Dubai: Review and standings