THE "INDEFINITE break" taken by world number one Tiger Woods from tournament play means he may or may not make an appearance in the JP McManus Invitational Pro-Am next summer, depending on how long his hiatus lasts, but the organisers of the event - which has raised over €55 million for charity since its inception - continue to add considerable armoury to the line-up for Adare Manor Resort on July 5th-6th next.

Jim Furyk, the world's number six, triple-major champion Ernie Els and in-form Australian Robert Allenby - who have amassed over 100 worldwide career victories between them - were yesterday added to the field. Among those to have already committed to playing are Pádraig Harrington, Lee Westwood, Paul Casey, Rory McIlroy and Ian Poulter, all ranked inside the world's top-12.

Woods - who has played in the last two Pro-Ams, in 2000 and 2005 - had also made a commitment to play, but that came before his recent off-course problems and decision, taken last Friday, to take an "indefinite break" as he seeks to resolve his personal life.

Furyk recently ended a two-year winless drought when claiming the Chevron World Challenge, while Els, a former world number one who is 17th in the official rankings, retains strong appeal. Allenby has won his last two tournaments - the Nedbank Challenge in Sun City and the Australian PGA last Sunday - and is ranked 21st in the world.

JP McManus said: "We are delighted that players of such high calibre who have shown their magnificent skills all around the world have agreed to give up their time to play . . . Jim Furyk, Ernie Els and Robert Allenby are a great addition to the event."

The aim of the pro-am is to support mid-western charities and groups in their work with the underprivileged and disadvantaged. All proceeds are donated towards the development of these services and over €55 million has been raised since its inception in 1990. Once again, the beneficiary charities are organising pre-qualifying tournaments throughout the country in a bid to enter teams.

Spectators can choose from one of eight different coloured "two-day entrance caps" representing Ireland, Munster Rugby and each of the Munster counties. At €50 each they can be bought on www.jpmcmanusproam.com or at selected outlets (they are being marketed as an ideal Christmas gift in aid of charity).