CRISTIE KERR AND MICHELLE WIE CONFIRM THEIR RETURN TO SIME DARBY LPGA MALAYSIA 2011

PRESS RELEASE

KUALA LUMPUR (Aug 24, 2011): Sime Darby Berhad and event organisers IMG are delighted to announce the return of international superstars, Cristie Kerr and Michelle Wie, to this year’s Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia 2011.

The two top-flight Americans will compete against several other high ranking female golfers at the prestigious

Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club (KLGCC) from Oct 13-16 2011.

Kerr, a well-known figure on the LPGA Tour since her debut in 1997, is currently ranked second in the Women’s World Golf Rankings (as of Aug 8 2011), the highest among American lady golfers. 

With a remarkable 14 LPGA victories already to her name, she hit the top of the Women's World Golf Rankings in June last year after winning two of the first 10 tournaments on the LPGA Tour, including the LPGA Championship. She won by a recordbreaking 12-stroke margin over the second-place finisher Song-Hee Kim.

“I am extremely pleased to confirm that I will once again be playing in Malaysia in October. I had a pretty good tournament last year but will definitely be looking to improve this year. I was particularly moved by the tournament’s association with the Cancer Research Initiatives Foundation (CARIF) charity and its support of breast cancer awareness. This is a cause that is particularly close to my heart and one which I am always keen to support whenever I can,” said Kerr.

Meanwhile Wie, who turned professional in 2005, has two professional titles to her name to date. In 2006, she became the first female medalist in a US Open qualifying tournament at Turtle Bay, Hawaii at the age of 16. She has since moved up the rankings table, amassing close to US$4 million in career prize money.

She said, “I am really looking forward to be back in Malaysia this year. I felt so welcome last year when I arrived for the tournament, and I am honoured to be the honorary member of KLGCC and to stay in one of Sime Darby Property’s homes at Turnberry Villas during the tournament. They are breath-taking homes and made me feel so comfortable. Last year’s tournament was very exciting and I hope I can be at the top of the leader board on the final day. ”

This year’s Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia promises to offer an even greater showcase, with an increase in prize purse, field size and number of playing days on the cards come October. The 2011 tournament will now feature the top 62 LPGA members from the LPGA Tour Official Money List, along with 10 sponsors’ invites. The four-day stroke play event with no cut will ensure that players are in Kuala Lumpur for the tournament duration and the local and regional golf community can catch their favourite golfers in action the entire week.

“With 9 out of 10 of the top women players’ (from the Rolex Money List) participation last year, the Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia 2010 has created a benchmark in women’s golf in the region. 

“This year, we are delighted that the tournament continues to attract world ranking players such as Michelle and Cristie. The Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia is a world-class golf tournament and bringing in the best players every year is an important part of maintaining that status,” said Dato’ Wahab Maskan, Group Chief Operating Officer of Sime Darby Berhad and Managing Director of Sime Darby Property.

Sime Darby recently confirmed that another American, Paula Creamer, will compete in this this year’s tournament alongside two Malaysian golfers, Kelly Tan and Jean Chua, who will receive two of the sponsors’ invites for the 2011 Championship.

Creamer, who was unable to attend last year’s event due to an injury, is hoping to make her mark in this year’s tournament. Rising star Kelly finished at a commendable 32nd placing, becoming the leading local player in last year’s inaugural Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia, while Jean Chua recently played in the US Open 2011.

“The return of Cristie Kerr and Michelle Wie to the Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia 2011, alongside fellow American Paula Creamer, is fantastic news for this year’s tournament. Last year’s event proved that Malaysia is an ideal host for world-class golf events and the fans should prepare for a tremendous weekend of golfing action as we welcome an array of talent amongst this year’s line-up,” said Robbie Henchman, Senior Vice President, Global Co-Managing Director, IMG Golf.

Sime Darby will also be running a qualifying session where two girls from Malaysia and two from Asia will be able to qualify for this prestigious tournament. The competition takes place on the 6th and 7th of September and will be played over 36 holes of scintillating golf. The tournament is open to all female professional or amateur golfers with a handicap of 2.0 or less. The two Malaysian players and the two Regional players with the lowest score over the two days will get invitations to play in the Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia 2011. 

The qualifying tournament attracts players from the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Indonesia, Korea, Japan, China, Taiwan and Hong Kong.

For more information, please visit www.simedarbylpgamalaysia.com

Omega European Masters

PRESS RELEASE

SINGH SPEARHEADS ASIAN TOUR CHARGE AT OMEGA EUROPEAN MASTERS

Kuala Lumpur, August 25: Asian Tour honorary member Jeev Milkha Singh of India will bring a big dose of confidence and form into the Omega European Masters next week.

Singh, Asia’s number one in 2006 and 2008, has produced some of his best golf recently with three solid results in his last three tournaments and he will be eyeing another stellar run at the Crans-sur-Sierre Golf Club from September 1 to 4.

In recent years, the Indian star has struggled with injuries but is showing glimpses of his best form which earned him two Asian Tour Order of Merit crowns.

This season, he has notched two top-10s on the European Tour with his best finish being tied sixth at the Nordea Masters last month. Singh has won numerous titles on the Asian, Japan and European Tours and will be determined to end a three-year title drought next week.

“The tied-sixth place was only my second top-10 of the season and my best result in a long, long time but I do feel that I am getting closer and closer to the form that should give me the desired results,” said Singh in his latest blog.

His title ambition will be tested against a strong line-up of stars including new Major winners Rory McIlroy and Darren Clarke of Northern Ireland and world number two Lee Westwood of England at the €2,000,000 (approximately US$2.6 million) event co-sanctioned by the Asian Tour and European Tour.

Japanese ace Tetsuji Hiratsuka, who won three titles on the Asian Tour last year, S.S.P. Chowrasia of India, currently leading the Order of Merit and rising star Baek Seuk-hyun of Korea will also feature in the Omega event.

Thailand will be represented by no fewer than six players including Thongchai Jaidee, Thaworn Wiratchant, Udorn Duangdecha, Pariya Junhasavasdikul, Chinnarat Phadungsil and Chapchai Nirat, who have a combined total of 33 Asian Tour victories.

After a sensational season last year, Hiratsuka will make his debut at the Omega European Masters where he will be hoping to eclipse the elite cast gathered at the stunning Crans-sur-Sierre Golf Club.

He has two top-10s in Japan this year and has yet to miss the halfway cut on the Asian Tour. His experience of playing in the British Open will also be put to good use next week.

Chinnarat, the youngest player to win on the Asian Tour at 17 years and five days in 2005 while he was still an amateur, is one of the most consistent players this season. He has made seven consecutive cuts on the Asian Tour, highlighted by the two top-10s. He will be upbeat of carding a solid result in his third appearance at the Omega European Masters.

The Omega European Masters is the first event in Europe to be co-sanctioned by the Asian Tour and European Tour in 2009.

PGM Penang Classic

Date: 23 – 26 May 2011

Venue: Penang Golf Resort

Nachimuthu Eagles His Way To Title

M. Nachimuthu put together an eagle and seven birdies against two bogeys on the final round to clinch the PGM Classic title at Penang Golf Resort, Bertam, Penang on Thursday.

The final round was quite a thriller because the lead had changed hands from Sasidaran to Anis Helmi and finally to R. Nachmuthu who won it with the last birdie putt on the last hole.

His 7-under 65 on the final day was also the best.

Nachimuthu carded a 7-under 65 on the final round and 16-under 272 to beat Anis Helmi and Shaaban Hussin by one shot.

Anis and Shaaban carded a 5-under 67 and 15-under 273.

Nachimuthu began his brilliant final round with an eagled the the par-5 491-yard 2^nd hole followed by birdies to add to his string of birdies at the 1^st, 8^th and 9^th.

^{He bogeyed} the 3^rd and 4^th bogeyed to card a 3-under 33 in the first nine.

Nachimuthu won the tournament with a birdie at the last and was helped by Anis Helmi who was leading by one at the time had bogeyed the par-3 17^th.  

His second nine was a bogey-free game with birdied at the 11^th, 15^th,16 ^th and the 18^th for a seven-under 65 and 16-under four-day total to beat Anis Helmi and Shaaban Hussin by one shot.

Nachimuthu who began the final round two shots behind overnight leader M.Sasidaran, said:”I said to my caddy that if I birdie the last hole, I am confident I would win this tournament.

“Overall my game is good today I did not do any silly mistakes.” Nachimuthu said his RM18,000 prize money would help finance his participation in future events.

Anis Helmi said:” Although I came joint second I am happy with my game and fifteen under is my best game so far. When I heard the cheers on the 18^th I knew that I had to birdie the last hole for a playoff. I thought my 40-footer putt on the last was good but it just missed by a whisker.”

“Today’s game gave me a lot of confidence. I hope I can be in contention in the future events,” said Anis Helmi who received RM11,000.

Shaaban who was champion of the PGM Trengganu Classic who began one shot behind overnight leader M.Sasidaran, made some good putts to stay in the hunt despite putting one tee-shot into the water but still managed to save par.

He bounced back with an eagle at the 8th, followed by back-back birdies on the 10^th and the 11^th.

Final Leaderboard:

-16 R. Nachimuthu 72-69-66-65 272

-15 Anis Helmi 72-65-69-67 273

-15 Shaaban Hussin 68-69-69-70 273

-10 M. Sasidaran 69-69-67-73 278

-10 Md Rashid Ismail 72-64-71-71 278

  -9 Chan Soo Keong 69-68-73-69  279

  -9 P. Gunasagaran 72-72-69-66 279

  -9 K. Kemarol Baharin 65-74-71-70 280

  -8 S. Sivachandran 71-67-72-70 280

  -8 Airil Rizman 71-73-68-68 280

24TH KURNIA-SAUJANA AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP
24 - 26 May 2011


GAVIN WINS IN DRAMATIC PLAYOFF 

Gavin & Ryan

Gavin Green won the Kurnia-Saujana Amateur Championship in a 

dramatic play-off with Ryan Peake after the Australian made 

up the one-stroke difference between them with a birdie at 

the final hole. Ryan posted 71 while Gavin played to par 72.
In the sudden death played at the 580-yard Par 5, 18th hole, 

Peake's drive ended just inside the fairway bunker near the 

lip while Gavin found the same bunker slope. Peake's second 

shot veered right into the trees and among heavy rough about 

140 yards from the pin while Gavin's shot made the fairway. 

Peake found a window among the heavy foliage but his pitch 

shot went hot and overshot the green into OB. He played 

another ball but it ended at the back of the green. Gavin 

deftly chipped his ball onto the green and easily two-putted 

for his second win in the event. 

"After I saw Ryan's ball ending into the trees, I knew I had 

a good chance. My second shot was in good position on the 

fairway and when Ryan's ball went OB, I knew the tournament 

was mine," said Gavin. Gavin, who started the final round 

with a 1-stroke lead, dropped a shot at the 4th but had 3 

birdies up to the 13th hole while Ryan bogeyed the 6th, 

giving Gavin a 4-stroke lead. Gavin gave back 2 strokes with 

consecutive bogeys at the 14th and 15th and Peake reduced 

the deficit to one stroke with a birdie at the 17th. At the 

18th, Peake produced the shot of the day with a restricted 

3-wood punch shot with his back to a tree, sending the ball 

only 40 feet from the green. He chipped to 1 foot for a 

birdie to force the play-off. 

"I needed to birdie the 18th and my shot was solid despite 

the tight situation, but I dented the toe of the club in 

the process," said Peake who hails from Perth. "In the 

play-off, I miss-hit my bunker shot and sent the ball into 

the palm trees which cost me the chance for the title."
Gavin and Peake each had 3-day total of 210. Singaporean 

Jerome Ng was placed third at 218 and Filipino Jobim Carlos 

fourth at 219. The next best Malaysian was Mohamad Hisyam 

Majid at 226 for 8th place. 

RESULTS (Malaysian unless stated)
210 - Gavin Kyle Green 70-68-72; Ryan Peake (Aus) 71-68-71
218 - Jerome Ng (Sin) 72-74-72
219 - Jobim Carlos (Phi) 72-72-75
221 - Clyde Mondilla (Phi) 76-74-71; Marc Ong (Sin) 73-72-76
224 - Gregory Foo (Sin) 72-78-74
226 - Mohamad Hisyam Majid 70-79-77
227 - Myo Win Aung (Myn) 74-78-75; Daniel Bringolf (Aus) 74-76-77
228 - Kenneth De Silva 74-78-76
229 - Low Khai Loon 80-76-73; Tan Wei Chean 81-74-74
230 - Low Khai Jei 73-79-78
231 - Ng Choo Teck 76-80-75; Amanjyot Singh (Ind)78-75-78
232 - Gagan Verma (Ind) 79-81-72

DRAMATIC FINALE AS BRINGOLF OVERTAKES CHIEH FOR THE TITLE

Chieh Po Lee’s cruise on the first three days of the 109^th Malaysian Amateur Open Golf Championship came to a screeching halt in the final round at the A’Famosa Golf Resort.

Final day nerves frazzled the 16-year old who struggled to chalk up a five-over-par 77 and was relegated to runner-up spot on eight-under-par 280.

A bad double-bogey start at the par-four first hole was added with a miscalculated slip at the par-five 7^th hole when his caddie had to help pull him out from the edge of the nearby pond. 

“I tried to make it two-on, but failed and while searching for my ball in what I thought was a dry hazard, I slid into the pond,” rued the teen from Taipei.

As Chieh cracked under final day pressure, Daniel Bringolf made good the two-stroke deficit yesterday with a one-under-par 71 to snatch the title by four strokes with a tournament total of 12-under-par 276.

“I was just playing well all the way and aimed at maintaining my form and today everything fell into place,” said the 20-year old from Sydney Bringolf who took the lead with a birdie at the 10^th. “I just thought if I put a little pressure later, it might crack him (Chieh) and I’ll be able to take the lead.”

India’s Abhijit Chadha claimed third place with a closing 71 that left him on seven-under-par 281 while Singapore’s Lam Zhiqun fired the day’s best score of four-under-par 68 to finish fourth on five-under-par 283.

A stroke behind in fifth place was Thailand’s Rattanon Wannasrichan whose even-par 72 today left him on four-under-par 284 total. Reigning Sabah Amateur Open champion, the Philippines’ Jobim Carlos finished on three-under-par 285.

Meanwhile, Abel Tam was the best Malaysian on five-over-par 293 followed by Kenneth de Silva and Mohamad Azman Basharudin who were tied on 294 total.

Aretha Pan recorded a wire-to-wire victory in the women’s category, closing with a one-over-par 73 to finish with a three-day total of six-under-par 210.

Without any prompting, the 17 year-old gushed, “I got my driving license!” referring to her father’s promise upon winning this event. “But today my putting was quite bad. I didn’t need to do many chipping as I found the greens in regulations.”

Starting badly on the front nine, Aretha sank two bogeys but made amends on the back nine with two birdies and a lone bogey.

Philippines claimed runner-up and third spots through Dottie Ardina who closed with a three-under-par finish for a three-day total of 212, followed by Jayvie Agojo on 213 strokes.

The ladies’ two-day International Team event concluded yesterday, with Hsin-En Tsai and Chi Wang finishing with 280 strokes earning Taiwan top spot.

FINAL RESULTS

(Malaysians unless stated)

276      Daniel Bringolf (AUS)           69-69-67-71

280      Chieh Po Lee (TWN)  65-67-71-77

281      Abhijit Chadha (IND)            69-70-71-71

283      Lam Zhiqun (SIN)      74-71-70-68

284      Rattanon Wannasrichan (THA)          71-72-69-72

285      Jobim Carlos (PHI)     68-71-75-71

286      Ryan Peake (AUS)     74-68-73-71

288      Koh Deng Shan (SIN)            71-72-73-72

Natipong Srithong (THA)       71-70-73-74

 289      Wei Hou Liu (TWN)   75-75-67-72

Top Five (Women) (Malaysians unless stated)

210      Aretha Pan Herng       68-69-73

212      Dottie Ardina (PHI)   71-72-69

213      Jayvie Agojo (PHI)     69-71-73

216      Pinrath Loomboonruang (THA)         69-78-69

219      Iman Ahmad Nordin  75-72-72

PGM-ADT-CCM Impian Classic

MOORE WINS IMPIAN CLASSIC

American Jonathan Moore took advantage of Filipino Artemio Murakami's misfortunes to claim a classy three-stroke victory at the PGM-ADT-CCM Impian Classic on Sunday.
The 26-year-old rookie shot a closing five-under-par 67 to bag his first victory on the Asian Development Tour with a winning total of 22-under-par 266 at the Impian Golf and Country Club.

Earlier, Murakami was leading by three shots and at the turn he drove into out of bounds on the 10th hole for a double bogey and never recovered. He was forced to settle for second place after signing for a final round 69 in the RM200,000 event organized by Professional Golf Malaysia (PGM).

Chinese Taipei's Chang Tse-peng finished third, four behind the winner, after a 66 while Ben Leong was Malaysia's best finisher at tied fifth place on 274 alongside co-overnight leader Himmat Rai of India, who faded with a closing 75.

Moore, a former US Walker Cup team member, delivered the knock out blows with three straight birdies from the 13th hole as he celebrated a first title in Asia which was made special as his wife Claire was caddying for him.

"It feels great, it was a lot of fun. My wife is with me and we're having a great time," said Moore, who was third in last week's Clearwater Masters in Malaysia which was won by countryman Barry Henson.

"Artemio played phenomenal golf and I felt kind of bad seeing what happened to him. It was a lot closer than it was. I was trailing by quite a lot as he shot five under on the front nine. He played great. But some putts fell in for me at a crucial time.

"I had a good week last week and it is kind of funny as I've actually tried to play more conservative golf and suddenly, I start shooting low scores. It's a crazy game," added the American, who pocketed RM35,000 (approximately US$11,666).

Murakami was cruising comfortable after he turned in 31 but stumbled with a poor tee shot on 10. "The momentum changed when I hit it out of bounds. From there, I couldn't get my tee shots onto the fairways and I had tough second shots. It was his day," said the Filipino.

"I missed a birdie chance from eight feet on the ninth hole. If that one had gone in, it could have been a bit different. But Jonathan played so good. I'm still happy as I managed to shoot a 69.

"I hope to keep my momentum going until next weekend. Everything has been working this week. I'm happy with my swing and I'm really enjoying playing golf right now."

Rai, rated as one of India's rising stars, was disappointed to falter at the final hurdle after leading for the opening three rounds. "I started off terribly. I was quite shock after the first couple of holes as I didn't do much wrong. I drew a bad lie on the second hole when I lost it right and it ended on the face of the bunker. My attempt to get out hit the wall and I drew a bad lie again," said the 23-year-old Indian.

"It was still good experience for me. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm playing well and I'm looking forward to next week and the rest of the year. Obviously I'm disappointed now but I think I have many more opportunities to come."

Leading final round scores
266: Jonathan Moore (US) 68-66-65-67
269: Artemio Murakami (Phi) 65-67-68-69
270: Chang Tse-peng (Tpe) 66-74-64-66
271: Will Yanagisawa (US) 67-67-69-68
274: T.J. Kim (Kor) 73-66-68-67, Ben Leong (Mas) 69-72-65-68
277: Danny Chia (Mas) 69-69-72-67
279: Hanafiah Jamil (Mas) 68-71-73-67, M. Sasidaran (Mas) 66-75-70-68, Hsu Chia-jen (Tpe) 69-71-69-70
280: Mithun Perera (Slk) 74-70, 68-68
281: Kemarol Baharin (Mas) 70-69-74-68, Rashid Ismail (Mas) 77-68-67-69, R. Nachimuthu (Mas) 70-69-72-70.

PGM-ADT-CCM Impian Classic

India's Himmat Rai stayed firmly in the hunt for a first Asian Development Tour victory at the PGM-ADT-CCM Impian Classic on Saturday but will have in-form American rookie Jonathan Moore for company in the final round.


Rai, who has held the lead since the opening day, shot a third round of five-under-par 67 at the Impian Golf and Country Club for a 17-under-par 199 total in the RM200,000 (approximately US$67,000) tournament.

Moore, a former US Walker Cup team member and featuring in his first season in Asia, enjoyed five birdies and an eagle for a 65 which pushed him atop the leaderboard with Rai.

Co-overnight leader Artemio Murakami of the Philippines will start Sunday's final round one shot back after signing for a 68 while American Will Yanagisawa finished the day in fourth place, four behind, after a 69.

Malaysian Ben Leong produced the day's lowest round of 64 to move to sixth place on 206.

Rai, 23, birdied all the par fives to give himself a shot at winning a second professional victory after his lone win on the Indian circuit in 2009. "I enjoyed it, I played well. I hit the ball good and did the same things as the past two days. The flags were accessible but I'm playing to the middle of the greens and made a few putts," said Rai, who totaled six birdies on the card.

"I've been putting well for a while now. It's always been my strong point. It's exciting and I'm looking forward to tomorrow. Winning is always a great thing and it'll be good to get the job done."

The 26-year-old Moore, who was the NCAA champion in America in 2006, birdied the opening three holes, including a chip-in on the second, before finishing strongly with another eagle on the penultimate hole where he rifled a seven iron approach to five feet of the flag.

"It was great, a lot of fun. I got off to a quick start and had a nice chip in which got things going. I didn't expect it at all and then I eagled the 17th again. It was a good day," said Moore, whose wife Claire is caddying for him.

Last week, the American finished tied third at the Clearwater Masters and he'll be looking to improve by a couple of notches and emulate countryman Barry Henson's victory.

"I can't control what the guys are doing. It'll be fun. You've got to keep making birdies as the guys are playing good. It'll be a good shootout," said Moore, who graduated from Oklahoma State University.

Murakami is using the Impian Classic as a warm-up for his defence of the Asian Tour's ICTSI Philippine Open next week and stayed closely behind the leaders. He was disappointed with his back nine after his putter started missing the mark.

"I started strongly but on the back nine, my putter cooled off. I had a few bad breaks and missed four foot birdie chances on the 14th and 18th holes. I just have to play well tomorrow," said the Filipino.



Leading third round scores

199: Himmat Rai (Ind) 64-68-67, Jonathan Moore (US) 68-66-65

200: Artemio Murakami (Phi) 65-67-68

203: Will Yanagisawa (US) 67-67-69

204: Chang Tse-peng (Tpe) 66-74-64

206: Ben Leong (Mas) 69-72-65

207: Akhmal Tarmizee (Mas) 73-68-66, T.J. Kim (Kor) 73-66-68

209: Lindsay Renolds (Can) 69-74-66, Hsu Chia-jen (Tpe) 69-71-69

210: Airil Rizman (Mas) 72-70-68, Danny Chia (Mas) 69-69-72

Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) Update

Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) Update

Golf in Malaysia will continue to be on the upswing with the launch of the PGM – ADT Impian Classic on the Asian Development Tour next month.

The RM200,000 (approximately US$66,666) tournament will become the latest Malaysian tournament to join the fledgling Asian Development Tour. It will be staged at the Impian Golf and Country Club in Kajang, a 30-minute drive from the capital city of Kuala Lumpur, from May 5 to 8. The inclusion of the PGM – ADT Impian Classic will create a Malaysian swing for the region’s rising stars as it will be held the week after the inaugural Clearwater Masters in Batu Gajah, Perak.

YABhg Tun Ahmad Sarji Bin Abdul Hamid, the Chairman, Professional Golf of Malaysia, the event promoter, was delighted to form its first tie-up with the Asian Development Tour. The PGM - ADT Impian Classic is the 7th leg of golf tour in Malaysia known as “PGM Tour” which was established to provide regular competitions to promote the development of professional golf sports in Malaysia.
“We are looking forward to a long-term partnership with the Asian Development Tour. It is our vision and goal to create new playing opportunities for Malaysia’s upcoming players to compete on a higher platform and gain experience to eventually become world-class players,” said Tun Ahmad Sarji.

S.Siva Chandhran

The Asian Development Tour was established last year by the Asian Tour as a platform to unearth new stars of the game. The top three players on the Order of Merit would subsequently be rewarded with Asian Tour cards. Last season, S. Siva Chandhran of Malaysia, Hsu Chia-jen of Chinese Taipei and another Malaysian prospect Akhmal Tarmizee finished in the top three of the rankings to earn playing rights on the Asian Tour, the region’s elite circuit.
PGM Chairman said: “Siva and Akhmal are great examples of our players who have excelled on the Asian Development Tour. We hope to have more Malaysians joining them on the Asian Tour in the near future.”
The scenic Impian Golf & Country Club will be an ideal venue to stage what will be third leg of the 2011 Asian Development Tour. The challenging course features more than 500 trees of various species and is known for its tricky greens.

Ka Tung, June champion of champions

Ka Tung, June champion of champions

Golf Malaysia Champion of Champions Champioship

Viva the Champions!

Over the 2 days about 50 birdies were recorded in the Golf Malaysia Champion of Champions Championship often known as ‘Malaysia’s Masters of Amateur Golf’.

Now in its 24th year, the Golf Malaysia’s Champion of Champions Championship is only open to the current Men’s, Ladies and Senior’s champions of all golf clubs throughout Malaysia and Singapore and this year it included participation from club champions in Brunei.

Held at the breathtaking Berjaya Hills Golf & Country Club, March 25-26, the weather was soperfect – in sunny and cool weather condition, Sibu golf club’s Lee Ka Tung, Saujana golf club’s June Yap and Kelab Golf Perhidmatan Awam’s Mahat Bahari, all bested their opponents to emerged the Men’s, the Ladies and the Senior champion divisions, respectively.

Both Ka Tung and June Yap are now three time Golf Malaysia Champion of Champions title holders.
At the prize giving ceremony the three new champions were presented their green jackets ‘Augusta Style’ from last year’s winners.
In the Golf Malaysia Champion of Champions Invitational category, Salehan Othman (8), from Royal Seri Menanti Golf Club shot a two day total nett score of 151 to be the champion. Haji Sazali Md Hasni (10) from Sri Morib Golf Club has 152 nett for second place and Dato’ Lian Chin Boon (18) from Pulai Springs Golf Resort came third at 155 nett.

Novelty Events

Mazda2 - No one won the Mazda2 car for a hole-in-one at hole No. 11.

Callaway Longest Drive winner - Mohd Shanizam Mohd Mohagi (Kinta Golf Club) boomed a distance of 320 metres and Irene Lam Kui Moi (Kelab Rekreasi Tentera Udara) smacked a distance of 240 metres.

Red Bull Nearest to Sun - The six winners were: Azmi Mahmud, Son Tong Leong, Janice Ling, Mohat Bahari, Ruzanah Baba and Chia Kim Sin.

100Plus Nearest to Bunker - The six winners were: Joan Chin, Haji Sildin Sidol, Ibnu Tahir, Rozana Baba, Jacqueline Ng Sau Peng and Haji Sazali Mohd Hasni.

Results - Men (Top 10) Club Scores
Champion Lee Ka Tung (+1) Sibu Golf Club 71, 72 143
2nd: Mohd Musa Fakir (2) Dauau Golf Club 75 72 147
3rd: Nathan Hauser (1) Saujana Golf & Country Club 76 74 150
4th: Azmi Mahmud (4) Kelab Golf Titiwangsa PDRM 73 78 151
5th: Ahmad Redzaudin Ismail (6) Kelab Rekreasi Sri Mahkota 76 76 152
6th: Mohd Shanizam Mohd Mohagi (1) Kinta Golf Club 72 81 153
7th: Chia Kim Sin (3) Pulai Springs Golf Resort 80 75 155
8th: Ali Sahabuddin Jidin (8) Kelab Golf Kuala Kangsar 77 79 156 ocb
9th: Mohd Pizul Hazmi (3) Royal Pahang Golf Club 77 79 156 ocb
10th: Hj Soldin Sidol (4) Staffield Country Resort 77 79 156 ocb

Ladies (Top 10) Club Scores
Champion June Yap (5) Saujana Golf & Country Club 76 77 153
2nd: Irene Lam Kui Moi (5) Kelab Golf Tentera Udara 76 85 161
3rd: Leow Mee Yek (9) Pulai Springs Golf Resort 84 83 167
4th: Ireen Teng (8) Tropicana Golf & Country Club 85 85 170
5th: Shirley Lee Suk Len (11) Labuan Golf Club 89 82 171 ocb
6th: Janice Ling Hui Shin (6) Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort 86 85 171
7th: Stella Chau (10) Bukit Jalil Golf Club 94 81 175
8th: Sue Wong (10) Kelab Golf Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah 87 90 177
9th: Bong Moy (9) Palm Resort Golf Club 88 81 178
10th: Doris Yee (7) Kota Permai Golf Club 85 93 178

Seniors (Top 5)
Champion Mahat Bahari (4) Kelab Golf Perhidmatan Awam 80 80 160
2nd: Datuk A.S. Khamis (7) Nilai Springs Golf & Country Club 86 75 161
3rd: Hamdan Zambahari (7) Glenmarie Golf & Country Club 88 82 170
4th: Michael Hon (8) Monterez Golf & Country Club 83 89 172
5th: Abd Ghani Midi (11) Sungai Petani Golf Club 102 89 191

Invitational - Best Nett Over 36 holes (Top 5)
Champion: Salehan Othman (8) Royal Seri Menanti Golf Club 88 79 151
2nd: Hj Sazali Md Hasni (10) Sri Morib Golf Club 87 85 152
3rd: Dato Lian Chin Boon (18) Pulai Springs Golf Resort 93 98 155
4th: Othman Wanchik (11) Sungai Petani Golf Club 89 94 161
5th: Ahmad Danial Mohd Zahaki (14) ILSAS Recreational Club 92 103 167

Overall Best Nett Champion
Ahmad Redzauddin Ismail (6) Kelab Rekreasi Sri Mahkota 140 ocb

Organised by Golf Malaysia and hosted by Berjaya Hills Golf & Country Club, the championship is co-sponsored and supported by Callaway RAZR Golf (Official Equipment and Golf Ball), Heineken (Official Beer), Singleton of Glen Ord (Official Single Malt whisky), ONLY Golf (Official Apparel), SUNPLAY 130 (Official Sun Block), (Red Bull (Official Energy Drink), 100 PLUS (Official Isotonic Drink) and ICE Mountain (Official Mineral Water).

Golf Malaysia Champion of Champions Championship

Golf Malaysia Champion of Champions Championship

Champions Warming Up
The prestigious Champions tournament will see all champions representing their respective clubs heading into the event as firm favourites to take out the title at the 5,918 metres layout of Berjaya Hills Golf & Country Club in Bukit Tinggi. But to do so they will need to contend with an impressive field all ready to win. Joining the locals in the field for the first time is Brunei’s lady champion Joan Chin (11) from The Empire Country Club.
“It is great to see such a high quality field assembled for this tournament, it is also a great opportunity for them to put their skills on display and it would be a huge honour for any of these champions to win the tournament come Saturday’s final round.” said S.A Nathan, General Manager of Berjaya Hills Golf & Country Club. Teeing off at 8.00 am on short gun start, these amateurs are all looking to make their mark in this 36-hole stroke play tournament for their club. Leading the charge are all three defending champions Mohd Shanizam Mohd Mohagi, Clearwater Sanctuary golf club’s Ling Hui Shin and Dato’ A.S Khamis.
Organised by Golf Malaysia Magazine, the championship is proudly supported by Callaway RAZR Golf (Official Equipment and Topfilte golf ball), Heineken (Official Beer), Singleton of Glen Ord (Official Single Malt whisky), ONLY Golf (Official Apparel), SUNPLAY 130 (Official Sun Block), (Red Bull (Official Energy Drink), 100 PLUS (Official Isotonic Drink) and ICE Mountain (Official Mineral Water). Hole-In-One sponsor is Bermaz Motor, sponsoring a Mazda2.

Golf Malaysia Course Poll Results & Awards 2011

Kota Permai and Sarawak GC are Tops
The latest Golf Malaysia Course Poll that determined the best golf courses in Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia produced some pleasant surprises, thanks to 5,723 votes that you, our loyal readers, have taken the time to cast.
In this 2008-2010 survey Golf Malaysia readers have voted by way of our website, at numerous Golf Malaysia competitions, via e-mail, on Facebook and also at the annual GolfFest events.
The 2008-2010 poll was unique, as the voting extended over a three-year period rather than the traditional two-year timeframe of the pervious polls.
In late 2008, Golf Malaysia felt the world’s poor economy was having a negative bearing on the country’s golf courses, especially when it came to maintenance. When the economy started to show signs of recovery in 2009, the decision was made to extend the voting into 2010 with the plan to determine the results in December of 2010 and release the list of winners in early 2011.
When golfers vote they were asked to state their preferences based on the course’s routing, playability, conditions, cleanliness, maintenance, overall landscapes, facilities, services, and the memorable qualities of their rounds.
In our last poll, which gave us winners that reigned from 2008 to 2010, the winner for Peninsular Malaysia was Kota Permai Golf & Country Club and Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai captured the East Malaysia crown.

Since clubs capable of creating overall customer satisfaction year-in-and-year-out tend to garner the votes, Kota Permai G&CC was able to retain the top spot as the best course in Peninsular Malaysia by receiving 1,288 votes. In fact Kota Permai’s win makes it three-in-a-row for the 18-hole facility.
If Kota Permai wishes to join Saujana Golf & Country Club’s Palm course in our Golf Malaysia’s Hall of Fame for outstanding golf courses it will need to win the next two polls to meet the Fame’s criteria of five-in-a-row. And, if this year is any indication Kota Permai’s task is far from a lock.
With 1,117 votes, Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club (KLGCC) displaced Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort (1,003 votes) as Peninsular Malaysia’s second best course and The Mines Resort Golf Club (1,087) climbed to third to push Clearwater done to fourth.
In the previous poll KLGCC sat at No. 9, but since that poll their West and East courses were completely revamped at a cost of several million Ringgit and the club hosted the 2010 Malaysian Open on the West Course and the inaugural Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia on the East Course. Over the next two years, with their continued hosting of the two professional events and more golfers getting to play their outstanding new layouts KLGCC will give Kota Permai a strong challenge.
The same can also be said of The Mines Resort. While its 18 holes did not undergone major renovation, the condition of the course was brought to its finest in 2010 as the club prepared to host the first US PGA Tour event to come to Malaysia, the CIMB Asia Pacific Classic Malaysia. The expose this first-class tournament provided The Mines had it moving from No. 7 to No. 3 in the voting and like KLGCC it will be challenging Kota Permai for the top spot over the next two years.

The most startling news, however, from the latest poll is that, there are NINE new ‘faces’ in the Peninsular Malaysia Top 20. Leading the way for the new comers was Saujana Golf & Country Club’s Bunga Raya course in the fifth position followed by: Starhill Golf Club No. 12, Horizon Hills Golf Club No. 13, Ayer Keroh Country Club No. 15, Berjaya Hills Golf & Country Club No. 16, Pulai Springs Golf Resort No. 17, Datai Bay Golf Club No. 18, The Legends Golf & Country Resort No. 19, and Bukit Jawi Golf Resort No. 20.
Clubs voted out of top 20 included Staffield Country Resort in Mantin, Negeri Sembilan (3rd previously), Palm Garden Golf Club in Putrajaya (4th), Cinta Sayang Golf & Country Club in Sungai Petani, Kedah (5th), Kajang Hill Golf Club (6th), Sungai Long Golf & Country Club in Kajang (8th), Bukit Jambul Country Club in Pulau Pinang (11th), Kelab Golf Negara Subang in Petaling Jaya (12th), Kelab Golf Rahman Putra in Sungai Buloh (19th) and Glenmarie in Shah Alam (20th).
The biggest upward moves were made by Tropicana Golf & Country Club which jumped from No. 18 to No. 6 and Tanjong Puteri GRfrom 16th to 9th.

The Top 10 East Malaysia Courses from the states of Sabah and Sarawak, had Sarawak Golf Club dethroning Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai and their jump from No. 7 to No. 1 represented the strongest move among the top 10. The second biggest upward move was Sabah Golf & Country Club going from 10th to 5th.

Interestingly, no new courses appeared in the East Malaysia rankings.
While Nexus lost its pole position to Sarawak Golf Club, it did retain the title of Best Golf Resort in Malaysia with Melaka’s A’Famosa second and Sutera Harbour in third.
And when it comes to being ‘Memorable’ Sabah’s Tawau Hot Spring Golf Club impressed those who played enough to outrank Clearwater Sanctuary who claimed the second spot.
For those who have not played Tawau’s Hot Spring, be informed that the tough 18-hole layout gets the ‘Memorable’ honour because of its natural jungle settings, cool highlands weather, the frequent appearance of majestic hornbillls and more out-of-bounds than any other course in Malaysia.
Clearwater Sanctuary Resort again, top in the most scenic category, followed by Awana Genting GC, Bukit Unggul GC, Tawau Hot Spring and Berjaya Hills GC.
As for difficulty Klang Valley golfers have to look no future than Kelab Rahman Putra as it is the most difficult course to handle, followed by Orna GC in Melaka, Tanjung Puteri GR, Berjaya Hills GC and Horizon HillsGC.
In the Most Difficult Hole category readers put Hole 9 on the Lake Nine at Tiara Melaka GC, with another 9th hole, that of The Legends GC’s Nicklaus course at No. 2, with Hole 3 Hill course at Rahman Putra GC, Hole 15 Bukit Jawi GR and No. 18 at Kinrara GC in that order.
Darul Ehsan Golf Club was voted as it was in the previous poll, the Best 9-hole Course, followed by Bukit Utama, Royal Kampung Kuantan GC, Royal Kedah GC and Valencia GC in Sungai Buluoh.

The Golf Malaysia Course Poll 2011-2012 poll will commence with voting in December 2011 with the results announced in the 2013 February issue of Golf Malaysia magazine.
Again, thanks to all who participated in this poll and in previous polls and we at Golf Malaysia look forward to counting your votes once again about 18 months from today.

Full results of the Golf Course poll can be found in the February issue of Golf Malaysia Magazine.

A Saintly Break

St Enodoc, one England's most beguiling links courses, and the St Moritz Hotel, set in one of Cornwall's most romantic locations, is offering a 'Saintly Break' package that allows you to spend time on the golf course while your partner languishes in the spa.
Whilst you enjoy the majesty and beauty of the James Braid-designed course that was founded back in 1890, your other half will be being spoiled rotten in the Cowshed spa at the St Moritz Hotel.
Guests will be pampered by a team of committed therapists who soothe, calm, invigorate and delight with a luxurious range of udderly gorgeous Cowshed products, such as Wild Cow, Knackered Cow, or the award winning Grumpy Cow.
So no need to feel guilty as you plot your way around the award-winning championship St Enodoc course that is famed for its characteristic fairway undulations and firm greens that are set against the backdrop of some of the greatest sea and estuary views of any course in the world.
"St Enodoc is one of the UK's most highly rated links courses and testament to its quality, the Church Course has hosted numerous amateur golf events, including the English Ladies Amateur Championship in 1993 and 2002 and the English Counties Championship in 1989 and 2005," says Tuck Clagett, General Manager of St Enodoc.
"The outstanding beauty and design of St Enodoc has also lured a host of legendary Open Champions to its fairways including James Braid of course, Henry Cotton, Jim Barnes and Tom Watson which has added to the prestige of this exceptional course."
St Enodoc's location on the high sand dunes of the North Cornwall coast overlooking the Camel Estuary, with Padstow to the west and the Atlantic coast to north, makes for ideal links golf and stunning sea panoramas from almost every hole. The course has won many accolades and in 2009 was ranked 55th in the world outside the US by the well-respected Golf Digest magazine.
"In addition to glorious golf at St Enodoc and perfect pampering at the Cowshed spa, this part of Cornwall is an incredibly romantic retreat," comments Hugh Ridgway, owner and founder of the St Moritz Hotel. "It offers wonderful coastal and beach walks with stunning panoramas, traditional cosy, warming pubs and long lingering dinners in gourmet seafood restaurants."
The Cornish Cowshed at the St Moritz is part of the global spa network founded at Babington House in Somerset, with sister spas in New York, Miami, London and Berlin among others.
Within the restored 1950s-influenced leisure suite, guests can also enjoy a fully-fitted gym, pool and a Hamman-style steam room as well as six treatment rooms and a luxurious manicure and pedicure area with huge armchairs and state-of-the-art televisions.
"Saintly Break" packages comprise:
· 2 rounds of golf (18 holes) over the Church and Holywell Courses at St Enodoc (tee times to be confirmed on booking)
· Two one hour Cowshed spa treatments for the partner (times to be confirmed on booking)
· Two-night stay on a Bed & Breakfast basis
· Dinner on both nights
Only £145.00 per person per night
based on two people sharing a king/twin room (upgrade to a suite for just £60 per room per night)
Not available from 8 July to 29 August 2011 inclusive. Remains subject to availability at both St Moritz and St Enodoc. Applies to new reservations and existing reservations cannot be changed once booked.

BANGLADESH MASTERS

SIDDIKUR ROMPS TO 12-STROKE VICTORY

Bangladeshi Siddikur posted a final round score of three-under-par 69 for a 19-under-par 269 total to win the Bangladesh Masters title at the US$75,000 Asian Development Tour event.
Md. Milon Ahmed of Bangladesh secured second position with a 72 for a 281 total, 12 strokes behind Siddikur while amateur golfer Md. Jakiruzzaman (68), also of Bangladesh and flamboyant Japanese prospect Yosuke Tsukada (74) shared third place on a 284 total at the Kurmitola Golf Club.
"I want to dedicate my victory to Bangladesh. This is the first time the Asian Development Tour is organized here and it was great exposure to the professional golfers in Bangladesh,” said Siddikur, who won US$13,125.
Siddikur got off to a strong start, sinking three consecutive birdies from the first hole before returning with three further birdies against as many bogeys.
Since his victory at the Brunei Open last season, Siddikur has continued to fly the Bangladeshi flag on the international stage and he is determined to continue his mission in the new Asian Tour season.
Milon, who started his golfing journey with Siddikur as a ball boy at the Kurmitola Golf Club, rued a cold putter as he closed with three birdies against three bogeys. He was ecstatic with his experience of playing in his first Asian Development Tour event and hopes to one day follow in the footsteps of his close friend Siddikur.
A tired Tsukada, who struggled with fatigue, admitted he was playing for second place but was disappointed to bogey the last hole and eventually finish in tied third.
The top three players on the Order of Merit at the end of the season will earn their Asian Tour cards for 2012.

Leading final round scores
269 – Siddikur (Ban) 66-65-69-69
281 - Md. Milon AHMED (Ban) 72-69-68-72
284 - Md. Jakiruzzaman (A) (Ban) 71-75-70-68, Yosuke TSUKADA (Jap) 70-71-69-74
285 - Md. Zamal Hossain MOLLAH (Ban) 72-68-74-71
286 - Md. Rezaul KARIM (Ban) 74-70-75-67, Hirotaro NAITO (Jap) 70-70-72-74
287 - Justin BRINK (Ire) 71-72-75-69, Ross CANAVAN (Eng) 71-72-69-75
288 - Javed INAYAT (Pak) 73-74-67-74, Md. Liton HOWLADER (Ban) 69-71-71-77
289 - Takafumi KAWANE (Jap) 73-71-75-70
290 - Md. Sayum MIAH (Ban) 70-72-72-76
291 - Llewellyn MATTHEWS (Wal) 75-74-73-69, Neil REILLY (Eng) 72-73-74-72
292 - Md. Shakhawat SOHEL (Ban) 75-71-75-71, Md. A. MOTIN (Ban) 68-71-76-77

Prosperity to Eat All You Can!

How's that to eat your way to prosperity?

Here's the deal....Chinese New Year 2011 is a family affair celebrating, a time of reunion and this year, Tropicana Golf & Country Club Chinese New Year dinner has a special promotion.
“Our Family Prosperity buffet dinner, will have a wider variety of dishes to choose from, including the famous yee sang to toss for a bountiful year ahead, said James Thor, Event & Promotions Manager of Tropicana Golf Club.
The price is: RM52++ for adult
RM35++ for Member’s child
RM62++ for Member’s guest/visitor
RM40++ for Visitor’s child.
Members and guests who are 60 years and above will be entitled to a 50% discount.
Meanwhile, the CNY Family Prosperity Buffet Dinner has a presale offer. If you purchase 10 Prosperity Buffet Voucher from January 1-25, you will get 2 vouchers FREE!If you buy the most Family vouchers, you have the chance to win a trip for 2 to ClubMed Cherating worth RM2,888!The CNY Prosperity Dinner will be available from Jan 28 till Feb 13 from 7pm to 10.30pm.
Reservations at The Palm Coffee House are recommended. Call 03-7804 1919.

Maybank Malaysian Open 2011

MALAYSIAN OPEN 2011


Maybank has confirmed its commitment for another five years as the title sponsor of the Malaysian Open, increasing the tournament's prize purse to US$2.5 million at the same time.

Young sensations Louis Oosthuizen and Charl Schwartzel from South Africa and Rory McIlroy from Ireland, aare expected to lead the 2011 field of players in the 156 player this April 14th to 17th at Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club (West Course).

On the star players, Tan Sri Dato' Megat Zaharuddin Megat Mohd Nor Chairman of Maybank said: “We are thrilled to welcome Oosthuizen, Schwartzel and McIlroy to the 50th edition of the Maybank Malaysian Open. This is the first time in the Malaysian Open history a newly crowned Open Championship winner will be participating in our tournament. I believe that the appearance displayed by these three rising stars will attract more fans to the sport, especially after witnessing their superb sportsmanship."

The Malaysian Golf Association ("MGA") welcomed the announcement of the sponsorship renewal, acknowledging that the Maybank Malaysian Open is the jewel in the crown of Malaysia professional golf.

"The Maybank Malaysian Open has been instrumental in cultivating and supporting local talent over the years, giving them to opportunity to hone their skills on an international platform against some of the biggest names in the golfing world. Looking back 50 years, golf has truly come a long way in Malaysia. With tournaments like the Maybank Malaysian Open spurring on our local professionals, giving them priority and ensuring that their needs are taken care of, we are optimistic that a Malaysian golfer will one day represent our country in the Olympics," said MGA President Datuk Robin Loh.

Points earned by the players will go towards the Asian Tour Order of Merit, and will also add to the player's 2011 Race to Dubai Ranking, granting them a chance to qualify for the season-ending Dubai World Championship.

Past Malaysian Open has seen the likes of Vijay Singh, Padraig Harrington, Retief Goosen, Michael Campbell, Lee Westwood and Nick Faldo making waves on its courses over the years. In 2010, this prestigious event was won by 19-year old Korean sensation Noh Seung-Yul who then went on to become Asian Tour's number one player.

In addition to the series of announcements, Maybank also revealed the appointment of local heroes Danny Chia and Mohd Shaaban Hussin as the Ambassadors of the Maybank Malaysian Open 2011. "Our support for Malaysian golfers stretches from developing youth through our Junior Development Programme, to Malaysian professionals. This year will see the number of Malaysians in the field increase from 17 to 22 golfers. I am also pleased that this year, we will sponsor two Malaysian golfers - Danny Chia and Shaaban Hussin. It is our intention to help some of those affected by our support to realize their potential and hopefully become international champions," said Tan Sri Dato' Megat Zaharuddin Megat Mohd Nor.

"Danny made history by becoming the first Malaysian to win an Asian Tour event when he won the Taiwan Open in 2002. He also qualified for the third time to play in the British Open, becoming the first Malaysian to play in all four rounds at the British Open at St Andrews, the oldest major in the world," added Tan Sri Dato' Megat Zaharuddin Megat Mohd Nor. "Shaaban, who turned pro in 2003, proved himself a talent to watch when he beat over 100 local professionals to qualify for the inaugural PGA Tour-sanctioned event in Malaysia last year. He has the makings of a great player."

Golf in Vietnam

Thu Duc Garden Homes Invitational attracted 122 players from around Vietnam.




And so, a course record fell as Vietnam’s top amateur tournament was held from January 7-9 at Danang Golf Club.

The format was conducted in 36 holes of stroke play and, as one might expect, three of the five Asian Tour representatives claimed top honors. Australian Unho Park’s 139 led the field, thanks to Sunday’s closing 69, a new course record from the championship Shark Tees at 8-month-old, Greg Norman-designed Danang GC. Lam Chih Bing of Singapore finished two strokes back while Vietnam’s own Tran Le Duy Nhat placed third at 146.

The individual competitions were broken out into five separate divisions:

• Amateur Gross (no handicap)

• Amateur Net (maximum handicap: 13)

• Vietnam National Team Open (no handicap)

• Professional (local and regional tours)

• VIP (with handicap)



Earning Amateur Gross honors was Vietnam Golf & Country Club’s Nguyen Ngoc Khoi, whose 74 on Saturday and 73 Sunday which gave him a 7 shot victory over this strong field. The Amateur Net champion was Le Ngoc Tu of Montgomerie Links, who plays off 12 and posted 135 over the two days.

Lau A Tay, playing out of Dong Nai GC, earned top spot among Vietnam National Team Open entrants, posting 82-78, while Vo Viet Thanh of Vietnam Golf & Country Club earned the VIP title with a net score of 140.

“The tournament was a qualified success in terms of the quality and depth of the field, the atmosphere and the venue. Even the weather cooperated!” said FOREGolf Asia Managing Director Jeff Puchalski. “It absolutely poured rain on Friday morning, the day we were supposed to have played practice rounds. That makes one nervous, of course, but Saturday and Sunday were both perfect for golf.

Puchalski reserved special praise for the Dunes Course at Danang Golf Club, General Manager Howie Roberts, and his staff. This Norman design was recently cited by GOLF Magazine as one of the top 15 new courses to open worldwide in 2010, and none of the competitors in January are about to disagree.

“Everyone loved the course and the Asian Tour players frankly raved,” Puchalski said. “The playing conditions could not have been better and the staff at Danang GC was superb. Their personalized service made the event really special.”

“Unho Park ultimately took the top prize, on Sunday, but the atmosphere late Sunday morning — when we held a sudden-death putt-off to gain the final —was electric. There were 122 people, the entire field, gathered around the putting green at Danang, living and dying with every stroke,” Puchalski said.

The two days of competition offered dozens of compelling storylines all their own, but special attention was paid to the hole-in-one competitions on account of what was at stake. A finer collection of prizes would be hard to find anywhere in Asia, unfortunately nobody won them:

• Host Danang Golf Club put up a two-year membership

• Course supplier Jebsen & Jessen offered Club Car golf cart, or $5000 USD in cash

• Local auto company Auto Do Thanh put up a straight cash prize of 100,000,000 VND

• Tournament host Le Quang Liem, General Director of Thu Duc Garden Homes, offered one of his company’s villas valued at $360,000 USD