Fast Facts: Asian Tour Qualifying School 2020
This week’s event: 2020 Asian Tour Qualifying School Final Stage
Starts: From January 19, Wednesday till January 23, Sunday
Venue: Lake View Resort and Golf Club, Hua Hin, Thailand
Par/Yards: Course A&B – Par 71, 6,897 yards, Course C&D – Par 71, 7,218 yards
Field size: 244 (Section A Qualifiers: 15 + Section B Qualifiers: 72+ Final Stage exempt: 157)
Format: 90-hole stroke play (5 rounds)
2019 winner: Austen Truslow (USA)
Hashtags: #ATQSchool #whereitsAT
ABOUT THE FIELD
Nationalities: 30
Countries represented: Australia (14), Canada (2), China (1), Chinese Taipei (7), England (6), France (2), Fiji (1), Finland (1), Hong Kong (2), Indonesia (2), India (18), Ireland (2), Japan (24), Korea (40), Laos (1), Malaysia (10), Myanmar (3), New Zealand (2), Norway (2), Pakistan (1), Philippines (6), South Africa (8), Singapore (6), Spain (1), Sweden (7), Thailand (40), United States (32), Venezuela (1), Vietnam (1), Zimbabwe (1).
Notable players: Rikuya Hoshino (Jpn), Hennie Otto (Rsa), Gunn Charoenkul (Tha), Seukhyun Baek (Kor), Rikard Karlberg (Swe), Malcolm Kokocinski (Swe), Khalin Joshi (Ind), Natipong Srithong (Tha).
Former AT champions: 11
Highest-ranked player on OWGR: Rikuya Hoshino (Jpn), 116th
No. of amateurs: 3
Youngest & Oldest players in field: Chen Ting-yu (a) (Tpe), 18 years old, Zaw Moe (Mya), 52 years old
DID YOU KNOW?
- The 2020 Asian Tour Qualifying School offers some of the world’s most promising players, both professional and amateur, the opportunity to earn their playing rights on the Asian Tour and the Asian Development Tour in the 2020 season.
- The 2020 Asian Tour Qualifying School, which comprises of two stages – First Stage and Final stage, attracted a total of 458 entries from 37 countries across the globe.
- Successful graduates of the Qualifying School include Thai stars Thongchai Jaidee (1999) and Kiradech Aphibarnrat (2009), Australian Scott Hend (2007), Korea’s Yikeun Chang (2016), as well as the American duo Kurt Kitayama (2018) and John Catlin (2018). PGA TOUR champions Kevin Na (2002) and Daniel Chopra (2015) are also part of the illustrious Asian Tour Qualifying School alumni.
- The First Stage of the 2020 Asian Tour Qualifying School is made up of Section A and Section B. Section A, which was held earlier at the Lake View Resort and Golf Club from January 8 to 11, saw a total of 15 players progressed to this week’s Final Stage. Section B took place on the same venue last week with 72 players making it through to the Final Stage from courses A&B (35) and C&D (37).
- Players who passed the test in the First Stage will join 157 other players, who are already exempt, in the Final Stage, which is scheduled to be played over 90 holes this week. All 244 players will play the first two rounds. After 36 holes, the field will be cut to the leading 140 players and ties who will then play 2 further rounds. After 72 holes, the field will be cut again to the leading 70 players and ties, who will then play the fifth and final round. At the conclusion of 90 holes, the leading 35 players and ties will be ranked accordingly for the 2020 season.
- Players who compete in the 2020 Qualifying School will also be eligible to play on the Asian Development Tour (ADT), which was launched in 2010 as a gateway to the premier Asian Tour.
Kanchanaburi, Thailand, February 17: The Asian Tour will make its maiden visit to Kanchanaburi for the inaugural Royal’s Cup 2020 to be staged at the Grand Prix Golf Club from March 12-15.
While Kanchanaburi is steeped in World War II history, the Royal’s Cup 2020, which offers a total prize purse of US$400,000, is ready to chart its first chapter at the western province of Thailand, located approximately three hours’ drive by car from Bangkok.
Situated near the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi and approximately 30 minutes away from Kanchanaburi town, the Grand Prix Golf Club will host the Royal’s Cup 2020 which will be one of the first outings for many players who will graduate from the Tour’s Qualifying School, also held in Thailand over the next two weeks.
As a full-field Asian Tour event, a host of promising players from Thailand and across Asia are expected to battle for top honours at the Grand Prix Golf Club, a world-class championship golf course which offers panoramic views of Burmese mountain ranges in the distance.
The Royal’s Cup 2020 is promoted by Grand Prix International, the company behind the Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS) which has been a major event on Thailand’s automotive scene for over 40 years.
Dr Prachin Eamlumnow, Director, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Grand Prix International Public Ltd Company said: “The Grand Prix International Public Company Limited is a company that organises the Bangkok International Motor Show; an event with an international standard guaranteed by OICA.
“The golf tournament that we will be held to honor His Majesty King Rama X and to celebrate the 50 years of the Grand Prix in business. It is also to promote professional Thai golf sport to be recognized internationally. We would like to provide it at an international standard. Therefore, we have chosen to work with the Asian Tour, a reputable organization that is the official regional sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia.”
Asian Tour Commissioner and CEO, Cho Minn Thant said: “The Asian Tour is delighted to align with powerhouse organiser Grand Prix International for their inaugural professional golf event.
“We are honoured that Dr. Prachin has chosen the Asian Tour as the platform to showcase another side of the company whose main business is already a household name in the automotive industry.
“We are excited to visit Kanchanaburi for the first time in the Asian Tour’s history and looking forward to experiencing the hospitality of the highly rated Grand Prix Golf Club.
“Our members will have another opportunity to compete and earn their passage to the upper echelons of the professional game in a country that has produced many worthy champions. We are confident that the event will allow the local galleries to catch their heroes in action at the Grand Prix Golf Club.”
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Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia February 15: The Malaysian Open, a flagship event of the Malaysian Golf Association (MGA) which is making its return to the Asian Tour schedule after a four-year absence, will continue to proceed as scheduled.
Sanctioned by the Asian Tour in partnership with the Japan Golf Tour Organisation. (JGTO), the US$1 million event is set to get underway at the Kota Permai Golf and Country Club from March 5-8.
Addressing the concerns over the current Covid-19 situation, MGA President, Tan Sri Mohd Anwar Mohd Nor said: “The health and safety of players and audience is and remains the number one priority of the MGA. With strict measures in place, as guided by the Ministry of Health Malaysia, we will provide initial medical care in the event of illness and help prevent disease transmission.
“With this assurance given we hope that all players and audiences not to worry and be ready for the upcoming Malaysian Open 2020.”
Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner and CEO, Asian Tour said: “We are very much aligned with the decision made by MGA and with the stringent measures put in place during the week. We are adopting similar operational procedures at all our upcoming events to improve the safety towards all stakeholders and participants. We are confident the Malaysian Open will restore its pride as one of the most popular events on the Asian Tour schedule.”
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Sentosa, Singapore, February 14: The Maybank Championship, due to take place at Saujana Golf and Country Club in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from April 16-19, 2020 has been postponed due to the outbreak of Corona-virus (Covid-19).
The Asian Tour and European Tour accepted a request from title sponsor and promoter Maybank to postpone the Maybank Championship.
Discussions are ongoing with all parties looking into the possibility of rescheduling the tournament later this season.
Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner and CEO of the Asian Tour said: “We respect the decision made by the various key stakeholders of the Maybank Championship. We understand their concerns over the evolving Covid-19 situation which is a major international health issue and we look forward to the return of the Maybank Championship when the situation normalises.”
Datuk Abdul Farid Alias, Group President & CEO of Maybank, said: “The decision to postpone the Maybank Championship was made after intense deliberation and careful consideration in the interest of all the players, visitors, working teams and partners.
“The postponement of the Maybank Championship was not an easy decision to make, however, the safety of all stakeholders takes precedence, and we want to ensure that any risk of possible exposure to Covid-19 is mitigated. We will monitor the situation and work closely with the European and Asian Tours, as well as our other partners, as we plan for our return in the future.”
Ends.
Kyoto, Japan, February 14: The concluding leg of the third edition of the Panasonic Swing Series will reach its climax when the Panasonic Open Golf Championship returns to Kyoto in September.
Established in 1959, Joyo Country Club will play host to the best players from the Asian Tour and Japan Golf Tour Organisation (JGTO) for the first time in more than a decade when the co-sanctioned event gets underway from September 24-27.
The Joyo Country Club last hosted the Panasonic Open in 2009 where Japan’s Daisuke Maruyama ended his four-year title drought with a four-stroke triumph then.
The ¥150,000,000 (approx. US$1,389,000) Panasonic Open Golf Championship is expected to be hotly contested by players who are not only battling for top honours but also their positions on the Order of Merit as the event will play a pivotal role in determining their places on the money list.
Reigning Asian Tour Order of Merit champion Jazz Janewattananond of Thailand stole the headlines when he won the second edition of the Panasonic Swing series after finishing in fourth place at the Panasonic Open Golf Championship last year.
That result was enough for him to secure the Panasonic Swing series with 3,021 points, taking home the top bonus prize of US$70,000 along the way too.
Thai duo Poom Saksansin and Panuphol Pittayarat secured second and third places on the final Panasonic Swing rankings, earning US$50,000 and US$30,000 respectively from the reward scheme.
Asian Tour Commissioner and CEO, Cho Minn Thant said: “We look forward to returning to the Joyo Country Club which last hosted the Panasonic Open in 2009. It’s great to travel and experience different courses on the Panasonic Open rota. Our members really appreciate the opportunity to see different parts of Japan whilst competing for such an illustrious championship.
“With the Panasonic Swing reaching its exciting conclusion there, I’m confident the Panasonic Open Golf Championship will continue to provide the galleries with an unforgettable week of top notch golfing action.”
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Queenstown, New Zealand, February 13: Two Major winners and a golfer who won the “fifth” Major will add significantly to the 101st New Zealand Open presented by SKY Sport in Queenstown later this month.
US Open winners Michael Campbell and Geoff Ogilvy have confirmed their start, along with the remarkable KJ Choi, who won The Players Championship, who will also return for a third straight year.
The 101st New Zealand Open, which has attracted 156 professionals from 18 countries, will be staged at Millbrook Resort and The Hills from February 27 to March 1.
Campbell, who headed Tiger Woods by two shots at Pinehurst in 2005 to secure a place in golfing history, returned to the game last year and to the 100th New Zealand Open.
The 2000 New Zealand Open champion has joined the European Seniors Staysure Tour, with a best performance a share of second place in the PGA Seniors Championship last year.
With a year of more regular competition under his belt, Campbell has returned to Millbrook Resort, from his base in Spain, and will undoubtedly be a little more ‘match fit’ than he was a year ago.
Tournament Director Michael Glading welcomed the return of former New Zealand Open winner Campbell, recognising the large part that Manuka Doctor has played in making this happen.
“Manuka Doctor are a significant sponsor of the New Zealand Open, and also give great support to Michael, so for us this is a match made in heaven. We are just delighted to have Michael return to play in our event again” said Glading.
Geoff Ogilvy, who won 12 times as a professional including eight on the PGA Tour, and claimed the US Open crown in 2006, reaching #4 in the world rankings.
While he played in the New Zealand Open as a young professional, he ventured back last year for his first-ever visit to Queenstown after closing a long chapter of golfing life based in the US to return with his family to Melbourne.
He has spent much of the year settling his family into life in Australia, taking up the cudgels as an assistant to Ernie Els for the Presidents Cup and playing fleetingly.
But he saw enough of the golf courses at Millbrook Resort and The Hills, and the spectacular surrounds of Queenstown to return.
“I had a really good time last year and am really looking forward to coming back” said Ogilvy.
Choi, Asia’s most successful golfer, is returning to the New Zealand Open for a third straight year, and will reunite with Ogilvy, with the pair both serving as assistants in the Presidents Cup.
He has won 29 times over 25 years as a professional and claimed a top-20 finish last year.
“I have greatly enjoyed my last two visits to the New Zealand Open and I cannot say enough about the presentation of the courses at Millbrook Resort and The Hills,” said Choi.
“I played quite well last year, and I feel if my game is at its best then I can be very competitive at Millbrook Resort, which will be the host course this time.”
The 101st New Zealand Open, who carries a prize purse of $1.4million, is a co-sanctioned event with the PGA Tour of Australasia and the Asian Tour, and in partnership with the Japan Golf Tour.
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Tamsui, Chinese Taipei, February 12: The long-standing Mercuries Taiwan Masters has raised its ante by boosting its total prize purse to US$950,000 when the event tees off at the Taiwan Golf and Country Club from September 17-20.
Inaugurated in 1987, the Mercuries Taiwan Masters has been held annually on the Asian Tour from 2004 and sees a third consecutive increase in prize money since 2018.
The Mercuries Taiwan Masters is the brainchild of George Wong, who is the chairman of the Mercuries Group. It enjoyed a US$50,000 increase to US$850,000 in 2018, before another US$50,000 increase in 2019 took its prize purse to US$900,000 then.
With an all-time high US$950,000 on offer this year, the tournament has cemented its status as the richest professional men’s golf tournament in the country this season, where the winner will stand to take home a winner’s purse of US$190,000.
George Wong, Chairman of Taiwan Masters Golf Tournament, said: “We’re pleased that we have been able to make a significant increase in prize money to the tournament again this year. This is part of our commitment towards professional golf in Taiwan and across Asia.
“We are looking forward to another exciting week of top level golf when the Mercuries Taiwan Masters returns in September.”
Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner and CEO, Asian Tour said: “We’re thankful for the strong commitment and support shown by the Mercuries Group. On behalf of our members, I would like to thank George and Mercuries Group for their unwavering support towards professional golf at the highest level in Asia.
“The relationship between the Mercuries Group and the Asian Tour has never been stronger and I’m delighted the increased prize money is going to provide our members with a tremendous incentive as they compete for top honours.”
Last year, Thailand’s Suradit Yongcharoenchai clinched his Asian Tour breakthrough at the Mercuries Taiwan Masters with a one-shot victory while local veteran Lu Wen-teh remains the only champion to have successfully defended his title in 2008.
Lu also holds the record of most wins in the event with four in 1994, 1996, 2007 and 2008.
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Hua Hin, Thailand, February 10: The Asian Tour Qualifying School is ready to present the strong turnout of players with a grueling test of golf when it resumes its two-week run in Thailand on Wednesday.
A total of 478 players from 26 countries have entered the fray, armed with dreams of turning their golfing career into success under the most testing circumstances as only the top-35 and ties will eventually earn their playing rights for the 2020 Asian Tour season.
15 out of 53 players have already progressed to the Final Stage from the First Qualifying Stage Section A which was held earlier at the Lake View Resort and Golf Club last month.
Another 261 players are expected to vie for their places over two courses for the all-important Final Stage when the First Qualifying Stage Section B continues to be played over four rounds this week.
After 36 holes, the field at the respective two courses will be cut to the leading 80 and ties (including amateurs) who will play a further two rounds.
Successful players from the First Qualifying Stage A & B will then join 164 other players, who have already been exempted to the all-important Final Stage, which will be contested over five rounds next week.
With the first half of the 2020 schedule already been released, graduates from Qualifying School will have the opportunity to tee up in tournaments to be held in Malaysia, Thailand, Bangladesh, Korea and Japan.
Players who compete in the 2020 Qualifying School will also be eligible to play on the Asian Development Tour which offers Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points.
Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner and CEO of the Asian Tour said: “The Asian Tour Qualifying School has long been the springboard to success for many of the region’s promising players with the likes of Thailand’s Sadom Kaewkanjana, Korea’s Yikeun Chang and India’s Viraj Madappa earning their Tour cards and going to clinch their breakthroughs on the Asian Tour.
“Making the grade from Qualifying School maybe tough but once it has been achieved, the opportunities for both professionals and amateurs on the Asian Tour are going to be very rewarding.”
Apart from established names like Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee, Bangladeshi Siddikur Rahman and Australian Scott Hend, other successful graduates from Qualifying School include Australian Zach Murray, who won the 2019 New Zealand Open in what was his third start on Tour this season, as well as John Catlin of the United States, who etched his name in the history books by becoming the 10th golfer in Tour’s history to win three times in a single season in 2018.
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Dhaka, Bangladesh, February 7: The Bangabandhu Cup Golf Open 2020 is poised to become the richest professional golf event in Bangladesh with the total prize purse for the full-field Asian Tour event set to increase to US$400,000.
To be staged from March 25-28, the sixth edition of the popular event will continue to be played at the highly acclaimed Kurmitola Golf Club, which is also the home course of its honorary member, Siddikur Rahman, the country’s first champion in Asia.
Siddikur is the first player from Bangladesh to win on the Asian Tour when he emerged victorious at the Brunei Open in 2010.
He also became the first sportsman from his country to qualify for the 2016 Olympics on merit and was accorded the honour of becoming Bangladesh’s flagbearer during the opening ceremony in Rio de Janeiro.
The inaugural edition of Bangladesh’s National Open was established in 2015 with the aim of providing the catalyst for further expansion for golf in Bangladesh following the exploits of Siddikur.
It had offered the region’s finest players an initial prize fund of US$300,000 then and has been the springboard to success for many of its champions- Singapore’s Mardan Mamat (2015), Thailand’s Thitiphun Chuayprakong (2016) and Jazz Janewattananond (2017), Malcolm Kokocinski of Sweden (2018), Sadom Kaewkanjana of Thailand (2019).
General Aziz Ahmed, Chief of Army Staff, Bangladesh Army and the President, Bangladesh Golf Federation (BGF) said: “Bangladesh is celebrating the 100th birthday of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 2020. The whole nation is incredibly excited and as part of that BGF would like to organize the Bangabandhu Cup Golf Open 2020 in a befitting manner to show profound respect and love for the Father of the Nation.”
Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner and CEO, Asian Tour said: “2020 will be our sixth consecutive year playing in Bangladesh and we are delighted that the prize purse has been elevated to record level.
“Since it was inaugurated, it has either revitalized or launched the careers of many of our members. Our 2019 Asian Tour Order of Merit champion Jazz Janewattananond clinched his career breakthrough here in 2017, which also marked his epic rise where he is now one of the top-50 players in the world. Defending champion Sadom Kaewkanjana also became the record fastest Qualifying School rookie to win on the Asian Tour after playing in only his first start after graduation.
“As the richest sporting event in Bangladesh, I’m confident the Bangabandhu Cup Golf Open 2020 will continue to provide unveil more hidden talents in the region while promoting the sport in Bangladesh.”
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Seoul, February 3: The next edition of the Shinhan Donghae Open, which is co-sanctioned by the Asian Tour and Japan Golf Tour Organisation (JGTO), will be held in Japan for the first time in September.
The iconic event is also set to enjoy an increased prize purse to KRW1.4 billion with the winner’s cheque worth KRW252 million (approximately US$218,000) when it is played at the Koma Country Club located at Nara Prefecture from September 10-13.
Designed by the legendary Gary Player and opened in 1980, the Koma Country Club is a 27-hole membership course and has hosted several events on the JGTO including the Japan PGA Championship and the Kansai Open.
More significantly, the construction and development of the Koma Country Club was overseen by Shinhan Financial Group’s founder Heui-keon Lee in the 80s.
Lee, together with several prominent Korean and Japanese entrepreneurs had envisioned a promising outlook for Korean golf and the Koma Country Club holds a special place in the Shinhan Financial Group’s history books.
Shinhan Financial Group Chairman Yong-byoung Cho said: “I ask for the understanding of the Korean customers and fans who have supported and visited Shinhan Donghae Open every year.
“I sincerely wish that this year’s tournament will a great opportunity for players to spread their wings in the world. Shinhan Financial Group will continue to carry out global brand marketing to become the leading financial group in Asia.”
Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner and CEO, Asian Tour said: ““The Asian Tour welcomes the Koma Country Club as the new host venue of the Shinhan Donghae Open in September. Tradition and honour is integral to the game of golf and the decision by Shinhan Financial Group to pay homage to its founder Mr. Heui-keon Lee is a very noble gesture.
“We will miss playing the event on Korean soil this year however we are confident that the Japanese galleries will be out in force and take this opportunity to watch our Asian Tour players alongside counterparts from the Japanese and Korean Tours in action as well as on television via our global television broadcast.
“Many notable winners have etched their names in the illustrious Shinhan Donghae Open history books and we can only look forward to another exciting week of high level golf in September.”
Ends.
Fast Facts: Asian Tour Qualifying School 2020
By - Serene Loh
[addtoany]
All you need to know about this week’s Asian Tour Qualifying School Final Stage.
This week’s event: 2020 Asian Tour Qualifying School Final Stage
Starts: From January 19, Wednesday till January 23, Sunday
Venue: Lake View Resort and Golf Club, Hua Hin, Thailand
Par/Yards: Course A&B – Par 71, 6,897 yards, Course C&D – Par 71, 7,218 yards
Field size: 244 (Section A Qualifiers: 15 + Section B Qualifiers: 72+ Final Stage exempt: 157)
Format: 90-hole stroke play (5 rounds)
2019 winner: Austen Truslow (USA)
Hashtags: #ATQSchool #whereitsAT
ABOUT THE FIELD
Nationalities: 30
Countries represented: Australia (14), Canada (2), China (1), Chinese Taipei (7), England (6), France (2), Fiji (1), Finland (1), Hong Kong (2), Indonesia (2), India (18), Ireland (2), Japan (24), Korea (40), Laos (1), Malaysia (10), Myanmar (3), New Zealand (2), Norway (2), Pakistan (1), Philippines (6), South Africa (8), Singapore (6), Spain (1), Sweden (7), Thailand (40), United States (32), Venezuela (1), Vietnam (1), Zimbabwe (1).
Notable players: Rikuya Hoshino (Jpn), Hennie Otto (Rsa), Gunn Charoenkul (Tha), Seukhyun Baek (Kor), Rikard Karlberg (Swe), Malcolm Kokocinski (Swe), Khalin Joshi (Ind), Natipong Srithong (Tha).
Former AT champions: 11
Highest-ranked player on OWGR: Rikuya Hoshino (Jpn), 116th
No. of amateurs: 3
Youngest & Oldest players in field: Chen Ting-yu (a) (Tpe), 18 years old, Zaw Moe (Mya), 52 years old
DID YOU KNOW?
- The 2020 Asian Tour Qualifying School offers some of the world’s most promising players, both professional and amateur, the opportunity to earn their playing rights on the Asian Tour and the Asian Development Tour in the 2020 season.
- The 2020 Asian Tour Qualifying School, which comprises of two stages – First Stage and Final stage, attracted a total of 458 entries from 37 countries across the globe.
- Successful graduates of the Qualifying School include Thai stars Thongchai Jaidee (1999) and Kiradech Aphibarnrat (2009), Australian Scott Hend (2007), Korea’s Yikeun Chang (2016), as well as the American duo Kurt Kitayama (2018) and John Catlin (2018). PGA TOUR champions Kevin Na (2002) and Daniel Chopra (2015) are also part of the illustrious Asian Tour Qualifying School alumni.
- The First Stage of the 2020 Asian Tour Qualifying School is made up of Section A and Section B. Section A, which was held earlier at the Lake View Resort and Golf Club from January 8 to 11, saw a total of 15 players progressed to this week’s Final Stage. Section B took place on the same venue last week with 72 players making it through to the Final Stage from courses A&B (35) and C&D (37).
- Players who passed the test in the First Stage will join 157 other players, who are already exempt, in the Final Stage, which is scheduled to be played over 90 holes this week. All 244 players will play the first two rounds. After 36 holes, the field will be cut to the leading 140 players and ties who will then play 2 further rounds. After 72 holes, the field will be cut again to the leading 70 players and ties, who will then play the fifth and final round. At the conclusion of 90 holes, the leading 35 players and ties will be ranked accordingly for the 2020 season.
- Players who compete in the 2020 Qualifying School will also be eligible to play on the Asian Development Tour (ADT), which was launched in 2010 as a gateway to the premier Asian Tour.
The Asian Tour will make its maiden visit to Kanchanaburi for the inaugural Royal’s Cup 2020 to be staged at the Grand Prix Golf Club from March 12-15.
Kanchanaburi, Thailand, February 17: The Asian Tour will make its maiden visit to Kanchanaburi for the inaugural Royal’s Cup 2020 to be staged at the Grand Prix Golf Club from March 12-15.
While Kanchanaburi is steeped in World War II history, the Royal’s Cup 2020, which offers a total prize purse of US$400,000, is ready to chart its first chapter at the western province of Thailand, located approximately three hours’ drive by car from Bangkok.
Situated near the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi and approximately 30 minutes away from Kanchanaburi town, the Grand Prix Golf Club will host the Royal’s Cup 2020 which will be one of the first outings for many players who will graduate from the Tour’s Qualifying School, also held in Thailand over the next two weeks.
As a full-field Asian Tour event, a host of promising players from Thailand and across Asia are expected to battle for top honours at the Grand Prix Golf Club, a world-class championship golf course which offers panoramic views of Burmese mountain ranges in the distance.
The Royal’s Cup 2020 is promoted by Grand Prix International, the company behind the Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS) which has been a major event on Thailand’s automotive scene for over 40 years.
Dr Prachin Eamlumnow, Director, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Grand Prix International Public Ltd Company said: “The Grand Prix International Public Company Limited is a company that organises the Bangkok International Motor Show; an event with an international standard guaranteed by OICA.
“The golf tournament that we will be held to honor His Majesty King Rama X and to celebrate the 50 years of the Grand Prix in business. It is also to promote professional Thai golf sport to be recognized internationally. We would like to provide it at an international standard. Therefore, we have chosen to work with the Asian Tour, a reputable organization that is the official regional sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia.”
Asian Tour Commissioner and CEO, Cho Minn Thant said: “The Asian Tour is delighted to align with powerhouse organiser Grand Prix International for their inaugural professional golf event.
“We are honoured that Dr. Prachin has chosen the Asian Tour as the platform to showcase another side of the company whose main business is already a household name in the automotive industry.
“We are excited to visit Kanchanaburi for the first time in the Asian Tour’s history and looking forward to experiencing the hospitality of the highly rated Grand Prix Golf Club.
“Our members will have another opportunity to compete and earn their passage to the upper echelons of the professional game in a country that has produced many worthy champions. We are confident that the event will allow the local galleries to catch their heroes in action at the Grand Prix Golf Club.”
Ends.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia February 15: The Malaysian Open, a flagship event of the Malaysian Golf Association (MGA) which is making its return to the Asian Tour schedule after a four-year absence, will continue to proceed as scheduled.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia February 15: The Malaysian Open, a flagship event of the Malaysian Golf Association (MGA) which is making its return to the Asian Tour schedule after a four-year absence, will continue to proceed as scheduled.
Sanctioned by the Asian Tour in partnership with the Japan Golf Tour Organisation. (JGTO), the US$1 million event is set to get underway at the Kota Permai Golf and Country Club from March 5-8.
Addressing the concerns over the current Covid-19 situation, MGA President, Tan Sri Mohd Anwar Mohd Nor said: “The health and safety of players and audience is and remains the number one priority of the MGA. With strict measures in place, as guided by the Ministry of Health Malaysia, we will provide initial medical care in the event of illness and help prevent disease transmission.
“With this assurance given we hope that all players and audiences not to worry and be ready for the upcoming Malaysian Open 2020.”
Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner and CEO, Asian Tour said: “We are very much aligned with the decision made by MGA and with the stringent measures put in place during the week. We are adopting similar operational procedures at all our upcoming events to improve the safety towards all stakeholders and participants. We are confident the Malaysian Open will restore its pride as one of the most popular events on the Asian Tour schedule.”
Ends.
The Maybank Championship, due to take place at Saujana Golf and Country Club in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from April 16-19, 2020 has been postponed due to the outbreak of Corona-virus (Covid-19)
Sentosa, Singapore, February 14: The Maybank Championship, due to take place at Saujana Golf and Country Club in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from April 16-19, 2020 has been postponed due to the outbreak of Corona-virus (Covid-19).
The Asian Tour and European Tour accepted a request from title sponsor and promoter Maybank to postpone the Maybank Championship.
Discussions are ongoing with all parties looking into the possibility of rescheduling the tournament later this season.
Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner and CEO of the Asian Tour said: “We respect the decision made by the various key stakeholders of the Maybank Championship. We understand their concerns over the evolving Covid-19 situation which is a major international health issue and we look forward to the return of the Maybank Championship when the situation normalises.”
Datuk Abdul Farid Alias, Group President & CEO of Maybank, said: “The decision to postpone the Maybank Championship was made after intense deliberation and careful consideration in the interest of all the players, visitors, working teams and partners.
“The postponement of the Maybank Championship was not an easy decision to make, however, the safety of all stakeholders takes precedence, and we want to ensure that any risk of possible exposure to Covid-19 is mitigated. We will monitor the situation and work closely with the European and Asian Tours, as well as our other partners, as we plan for our return in the future.”
Ends.
The concluding leg of the third edition of the Panasonic Swing Series will reach its climax when the Panasonic Open Golf Championship returns to Kyoto in September.
Kyoto, Japan, February 14: The concluding leg of the third edition of the Panasonic Swing Series will reach its climax when the Panasonic Open Golf Championship returns to Kyoto in September.
Established in 1959, Joyo Country Club will play host to the best players from the Asian Tour and Japan Golf Tour Organisation (JGTO) for the first time in more than a decade when the co-sanctioned event gets underway from September 24-27.
The Joyo Country Club last hosted the Panasonic Open in 2009 where Japan’s Daisuke Maruyama ended his four-year title drought with a four-stroke triumph then.
The ¥150,000,000 (approx. US$1,389,000) Panasonic Open Golf Championship is expected to be hotly contested by players who are not only battling for top honours but also their positions on the Order of Merit as the event will play a pivotal role in determining their places on the money list.
Reigning Asian Tour Order of Merit champion Jazz Janewattananond of Thailand stole the headlines when he won the second edition of the Panasonic Swing series after finishing in fourth place at the Panasonic Open Golf Championship last year.
That result was enough for him to secure the Panasonic Swing series with 3,021 points, taking home the top bonus prize of US$70,000 along the way too.
Thai duo Poom Saksansin and Panuphol Pittayarat secured second and third places on the final Panasonic Swing rankings, earning US$50,000 and US$30,000 respectively from the reward scheme.
Asian Tour Commissioner and CEO, Cho Minn Thant said: “We look forward to returning to the Joyo Country Club which last hosted the Panasonic Open in 2009. It’s great to travel and experience different courses on the Panasonic Open rota. Our members really appreciate the opportunity to see different parts of Japan whilst competing for such an illustrious championship.
“With the Panasonic Swing reaching its exciting conclusion there, I’m confident the Panasonic Open Golf Championship will continue to provide the galleries with an unforgettable week of top notch golfing action.”
Ends.
Queenstown, New Zealand, February 13: Two Major winners and a golfer who won the “fifth” Major will add significantly to the 101st New Zealand Open presented by SKY Sport in Queenstown later this month.
Queenstown, New Zealand, February 13: Two Major winners and a golfer who won the “fifth” Major will add significantly to the 101st New Zealand Open presented by SKY Sport in Queenstown later this month.
US Open winners Michael Campbell and Geoff Ogilvy have confirmed their start, along with the remarkable KJ Choi, who won The Players Championship, who will also return for a third straight year.
The 101st New Zealand Open, which has attracted 156 professionals from 18 countries, will be staged at Millbrook Resort and The Hills from February 27 to March 1.
Campbell, who headed Tiger Woods by two shots at Pinehurst in 2005 to secure a place in golfing history, returned to the game last year and to the 100th New Zealand Open.
The 2000 New Zealand Open champion has joined the European Seniors Staysure Tour, with a best performance a share of second place in the PGA Seniors Championship last year.
With a year of more regular competition under his belt, Campbell has returned to Millbrook Resort, from his base in Spain, and will undoubtedly be a little more ‘match fit’ than he was a year ago.
Tournament Director Michael Glading welcomed the return of former New Zealand Open winner Campbell, recognising the large part that Manuka Doctor has played in making this happen.
“Manuka Doctor are a significant sponsor of the New Zealand Open, and also give great support to Michael, so for us this is a match made in heaven. We are just delighted to have Michael return to play in our event again” said Glading.
Geoff Ogilvy, who won 12 times as a professional including eight on the PGA Tour, and claimed the US Open crown in 2006, reaching #4 in the world rankings.
While he played in the New Zealand Open as a young professional, he ventured back last year for his first-ever visit to Queenstown after closing a long chapter of golfing life based in the US to return with his family to Melbourne.
He has spent much of the year settling his family into life in Australia, taking up the cudgels as an assistant to Ernie Els for the Presidents Cup and playing fleetingly.
But he saw enough of the golf courses at Millbrook Resort and The Hills, and the spectacular surrounds of Queenstown to return.
“I had a really good time last year and am really looking forward to coming back” said Ogilvy.
Choi, Asia’s most successful golfer, is returning to the New Zealand Open for a third straight year, and will reunite with Ogilvy, with the pair both serving as assistants in the Presidents Cup.
He has won 29 times over 25 years as a professional and claimed a top-20 finish last year.
“I have greatly enjoyed my last two visits to the New Zealand Open and I cannot say enough about the presentation of the courses at Millbrook Resort and The Hills,” said Choi.
“I played quite well last year, and I feel if my game is at its best then I can be very competitive at Millbrook Resort, which will be the host course this time.”
The 101st New Zealand Open, who carries a prize purse of $1.4million, is a co-sanctioned event with the PGA Tour of Australasia and the Asian Tour, and in partnership with the Japan Golf Tour.
Ends.
The long-standing Mercuries Taiwan Masters has raised its ante by boosting its total prize purse to US$950,000 when the event tees off at the Taiwan Golf and Country Club from September 17-20.
Tamsui, Chinese Taipei, February 12: The long-standing Mercuries Taiwan Masters has raised its ante by boosting its total prize purse to US$950,000 when the event tees off at the Taiwan Golf and Country Club from September 17-20.
Inaugurated in 1987, the Mercuries Taiwan Masters has been held annually on the Asian Tour from 2004 and sees a third consecutive increase in prize money since 2018.
The Mercuries Taiwan Masters is the brainchild of George Wong, who is the chairman of the Mercuries Group. It enjoyed a US$50,000 increase to US$850,000 in 2018, before another US$50,000 increase in 2019 took its prize purse to US$900,000 then.
With an all-time high US$950,000 on offer this year, the tournament has cemented its status as the richest professional men’s golf tournament in the country this season, where the winner will stand to take home a winner’s purse of US$190,000.
George Wong, Chairman of Taiwan Masters Golf Tournament, said: “We’re pleased that we have been able to make a significant increase in prize money to the tournament again this year. This is part of our commitment towards professional golf in Taiwan and across Asia.
“We are looking forward to another exciting week of top level golf when the Mercuries Taiwan Masters returns in September.”
Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner and CEO, Asian Tour said: “We’re thankful for the strong commitment and support shown by the Mercuries Group. On behalf of our members, I would like to thank George and Mercuries Group for their unwavering support towards professional golf at the highest level in Asia.
“The relationship between the Mercuries Group and the Asian Tour has never been stronger and I’m delighted the increased prize money is going to provide our members with a tremendous incentive as they compete for top honours.”
Last year, Thailand’s Suradit Yongcharoenchai clinched his Asian Tour breakthrough at the Mercuries Taiwan Masters with a one-shot victory while local veteran Lu Wen-teh remains the only champion to have successfully defended his title in 2008.
Lu also holds the record of most wins in the event with four in 1994, 1996, 2007 and 2008.
Ends.
The Asian Tour Qualifying School presented by Sports Authority of Thailand, is ready to present the strong turnout of players with a grueling test of golf when it resumes its two-week run in Thailand.
Hua Hin, Thailand, February 10: The Asian Tour Qualifying School is ready to present the strong turnout of players with a grueling test of golf when it resumes its two-week run in Thailand on Wednesday.
A total of 478 players from 26 countries have entered the fray, armed with dreams of turning their golfing career into success under the most testing circumstances as only the top-35 and ties will eventually earn their playing rights for the 2020 Asian Tour season.
15 out of 53 players have already progressed to the Final Stage from the First Qualifying Stage Section A which was held earlier at the Lake View Resort and Golf Club last month.
Another 261 players are expected to vie for their places over two courses for the all-important Final Stage when the First Qualifying Stage Section B continues to be played over four rounds this week.
After 36 holes, the field at the respective two courses will be cut to the leading 80 and ties (including amateurs) who will play a further two rounds.
Successful players from the First Qualifying Stage A & B will then join 164 other players, who have already been exempted to the all-important Final Stage, which will be contested over five rounds next week.
With the first half of the 2020 schedule already been released, graduates from Qualifying School will have the opportunity to tee up in tournaments to be held in Malaysia, Thailand, Bangladesh, Korea and Japan.
Players who compete in the 2020 Qualifying School will also be eligible to play on the Asian Development Tour which offers Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points.
Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner and CEO of the Asian Tour said: “The Asian Tour Qualifying School has long been the springboard to success for many of the region’s promising players with the likes of Thailand’s Sadom Kaewkanjana, Korea’s Yikeun Chang and India’s Viraj Madappa earning their Tour cards and going to clinch their breakthroughs on the Asian Tour.
“Making the grade from Qualifying School maybe tough but once it has been achieved, the opportunities for both professionals and amateurs on the Asian Tour are going to be very rewarding.”
Apart from established names like Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee, Bangladeshi Siddikur Rahman and Australian Scott Hend, other successful graduates from Qualifying School include Australian Zach Murray, who won the 2019 New Zealand Open in what was his third start on Tour this season, as well as John Catlin of the United States, who etched his name in the history books by becoming the 10th golfer in Tour’s history to win three times in a single season in 2018.
Ends.
The Bangabandhu Cup Golf Open 2020 is poised to become the richest professional golf event in Bangladesh with the total prize purse for the full-field Asian Tour event set to increase to US$400,000.
Dhaka, Bangladesh, February 7: The Bangabandhu Cup Golf Open 2020 is poised to become the richest professional golf event in Bangladesh with the total prize purse for the full-field Asian Tour event set to increase to US$400,000.
To be staged from March 25-28, the sixth edition of the popular event will continue to be played at the highly acclaimed Kurmitola Golf Club, which is also the home course of its honorary member, Siddikur Rahman, the country’s first champion in Asia.
Siddikur is the first player from Bangladesh to win on the Asian Tour when he emerged victorious at the Brunei Open in 2010.
He also became the first sportsman from his country to qualify for the 2016 Olympics on merit and was accorded the honour of becoming Bangladesh’s flagbearer during the opening ceremony in Rio de Janeiro.
The inaugural edition of Bangladesh’s National Open was established in 2015 with the aim of providing the catalyst for further expansion for golf in Bangladesh following the exploits of Siddikur.
It had offered the region’s finest players an initial prize fund of US$300,000 then and has been the springboard to success for many of its champions- Singapore’s Mardan Mamat (2015), Thailand’s Thitiphun Chuayprakong (2016) and Jazz Janewattananond (2017), Malcolm Kokocinski of Sweden (2018), Sadom Kaewkanjana of Thailand (2019).
General Aziz Ahmed, Chief of Army Staff, Bangladesh Army and the President, Bangladesh Golf Federation (BGF) said: “Bangladesh is celebrating the 100th birthday of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 2020. The whole nation is incredibly excited and as part of that BGF would like to organize the Bangabandhu Cup Golf Open 2020 in a befitting manner to show profound respect and love for the Father of the Nation.”
Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner and CEO, Asian Tour said: “2020 will be our sixth consecutive year playing in Bangladesh and we are delighted that the prize purse has been elevated to record level.
“Since it was inaugurated, it has either revitalized or launched the careers of many of our members. Our 2019 Asian Tour Order of Merit champion Jazz Janewattananond clinched his career breakthrough here in 2017, which also marked his epic rise where he is now one of the top-50 players in the world. Defending champion Sadom Kaewkanjana also became the record fastest Qualifying School rookie to win on the Asian Tour after playing in only his first start after graduation.
“As the richest sporting event in Bangladesh, I’m confident the Bangabandhu Cup Golf Open 2020 will continue to provide unveil more hidden talents in the region while promoting the sport in Bangladesh.”
Ends.
The next edition of the Shinhan Donghae Open, which is co-sanctioned by the Asian Tour and Japan Golf Tour Organisation (JGTO), will be held in Japan for the first time in September.
Seoul, February 3: The next edition of the Shinhan Donghae Open, which is co-sanctioned by the Asian Tour and Japan Golf Tour Organisation (JGTO), will be held in Japan for the first time in September.
The iconic event is also set to enjoy an increased prize purse to KRW1.4 billion with the winner’s cheque worth KRW252 million (approximately US$218,000) when it is played at the Koma Country Club located at Nara Prefecture from September 10-13.
Designed by the legendary Gary Player and opened in 1980, the Koma Country Club is a 27-hole membership course and has hosted several events on the JGTO including the Japan PGA Championship and the Kansai Open.
More significantly, the construction and development of the Koma Country Club was overseen by Shinhan Financial Group’s founder Heui-keon Lee in the 80s.
Lee, together with several prominent Korean and Japanese entrepreneurs had envisioned a promising outlook for Korean golf and the Koma Country Club holds a special place in the Shinhan Financial Group’s history books.
Shinhan Financial Group Chairman Yong-byoung Cho said: “I ask for the understanding of the Korean customers and fans who have supported and visited Shinhan Donghae Open every year.
“I sincerely wish that this year’s tournament will a great opportunity for players to spread their wings in the world. Shinhan Financial Group will continue to carry out global brand marketing to become the leading financial group in Asia.”
Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner and CEO, Asian Tour said: ““The Asian Tour welcomes the Koma Country Club as the new host venue of the Shinhan Donghae Open in September. Tradition and honour is integral to the game of golf and the decision by Shinhan Financial Group to pay homage to its founder Mr. Heui-keon Lee is a very noble gesture.
“We will miss playing the event on Korean soil this year however we are confident that the Japanese galleries will be out in force and take this opportunity to watch our Asian Tour players alongside counterparts from the Japanese and Korean Tours in action as well as on television via our global television broadcast.
“Many notable winners have etched their names in the illustrious Shinhan Donghae Open history books and we can only look forward to another exciting week of high level golf in September.”
Ends.
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