Greater Noida, India, January 30: The Avantha Masters will be played at a new venue and on a different date in 2013 when the fourth edition of the tournament is held from March 14-17 at the Greg Norman-designed Jaypee Greens Golf Course, in Greater Noida near Delhi, India.
The demanding 7,347 yards, par-72 Championship Course at Jaypee Greens Golf Course, which opened in 2000, is the only course in India designed by two-time Major Champion Norman.
Located approximately one hour from Delhi airport, the course features several water hazards and bunkering reminiscent of classic Melbourne sand belt courses.
Jaypee Greens GC takes over the staging of the Avantha Masters from DLF Golf and Country Club, which hosted the €1.8million event in 2010 (won by Andrew Dodt), 2011 (S.S.P. Chowrasia) and 2012 (Jbe Kruger).
The tournament will again be co-sanctioned by the Asian Tours and European Tour and will comprise an increased field of 156 players, with 61 provided by Asian Tour, 61 by The European Tour, 28 by the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) and the final six allocated to sponsor’s invitations.
The onsite event execution will continue to be operated by IMG Reliance, which has successfully implemented the event for the previous three editions.
Gautam Thapar, Chairman and CEO of The Avantha Group, said: “Following three hugely successful stagings of the Avantha Masters, we are delighted to sponsor the tournament for the fourth successive year. As one of India’s biggest business conglomerates we are rightly proud to be associated with a professional golf tournament of this magnitude and stature, and we look forward to the next edition in March 2013 and the chance it provides to help grow the game across the country.”
Padamjit Sandhu, Director of the PGTI, said: “The Avantha Masters gives Indian golfers the best possible platform to test themselves against some of the world’s best golfers. Following the recent success of the likes of Jeev Milkha Singh, Gaganjeet Bhullar, Shiv Kapur, Jyoti Randhawa and S.S.P. Chowrasia, the game of golf has never been more popular in India, and I have no doubt that the fourth edition of the Avantha Masters will again showcase India’s ability to stage a world-class tournament.”
Vidya Basarkod, President (Sales & Marketing) of Jaypee Greens Golf Course, said: “We feel proud and privileged to be hosting the fourth edition of the Avantha Masters on our golf course, as we believe the tournament will help showcase our beautiful property to the watching world. In particular, the last three holes should help to provide a suitably dramatic finish, and everyone associated with the club is truly excited to see how some of the world’s best players fare over a course which we hope will provide a true test of their skills.”
Keith Waters, The European Tour’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “The success of both the Avantha Masters and its leading players is testament to golf’s popularity in India, an increasingly influential country in a sporting and business context. We should thank our co-sanctioning partners at the Asian Tour and the PGTI, as well as the title sponsors Avantha and the new host venue Jaypee Greens Golf Course, which we feel will provide a fitting stage for another top class tournament in March.”
Kyi Hla Han, Executive Chairman of the Asian Tour, said: “On behalf of our talented players, we look forward to returning to the Avantha Masters, which is one of the most prestigious events on the Asian Tour Schedule. Asian Tour members have done well at the Avantha Masters since its inaugural event in 2010, and we expect our players to continue their fine run in 2013.
“As the richest tournament in India, the Avantha Masters is regarded highly in Asia and I would like to express our fullest appreciation to our title sponsor Avantha for their wonderful contribution to the game. With our sanctioning partners PGTI and The European Tour, the Asian Tour will continue to play the lead role in developing professional golf at the highest level in the region.”
Defending champion Jbe’ Kruger said: “Winning your first European Tour event is always special, and I can’t wait to go back to India to defend my Avantha Masters title in March. It’s a great country with great people, and I’ve got some very fond memories of my victory in Delhi last year. I haven’t played Jaypee Greens but have heard great things about it, and if it’s anything like as good as last year’s, then we’re in for a real treat.”
Admission to the tournament, which has been moved back a month from its traditional February slot, will again be free of charge.
About Avantha:
The US$4 billion Avantha Group is one of India’s leading business conglomerates. Its successful entities include BILT, Crompton Greaves, The Global Green Company, Avantha Power & Infrastructure, Biltech Building Elements, Salient Business Solutions, and Avantha Technologies. With an impressive global footprint, Avantha operates in more than 20 countries, employing 22,000 people worldwide. The Group has business interests in diverse areas including power transmission and distribution equipment and services, paper and pulp, energy and infrastructure, food processing, farm forestry, chemicals, IT and ITES. Led by Gautam Thapar, Avantha demonstrates strong leadership globally and emerges as a focused corporate, leveraging its knowledge, leadership and operations, adding lasting value for its stakeholders and investors. For more information on Avantha group, please visit www.avanthagroup.com.
About the Asian Tour
As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Abacus (Official Apparel Partner), BlackBerry (Official Communications Partner), Cityneon (Official Event Overlay Partner), Inetol Headwear (Official Headwear Supplier), Singha Beer (Official Beer), Srixon (Official Ball), Starwood Hotels and Resorts (Official Hotels and Resorts) and Rolex (Official Timekeeper). The Asian Tour has offices in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia, January 30: Local hope R. Nachimuthu and Singaporean star Mardan Mamat led the chase for Official World Golf Ranking points as they shared the opening round lead on five-under-par 67s at the PGM CCM Rahman Putra Masters on Wednesday.
Nachimuthu and Mardan got off to a hot start to take a one-shot lead at the RM200,000 (approximately US$65,000) event, which is the first Asian Development Tour (ADT) tournament to receive world ranking points in the new 2013 season.
Malaysians S. Murthy and Iain Steel, Gary Knight of the United States, Nick Redfern of England, Australian Darren Tan and Wolmer Murillo, the first Venezuelan to play on the ADT, were a further shot back on 68s at the Rahman Putra Golf Club.
Mardan, a three-time Asian Tour winner, credited the hours put into the gym during the off season for his splendid start where he holed a huge 30 foot eagle putt on the fifth hole and sank five other birdies against two bogeys.
“I’m satisfied with the way I played. I concentrated a lot on my fitness during the off season. I went to the gym for four times a week and work out for two hours which has helped my game,” said the 45-year-old.
Mardan believes the ADT’s Official World Golf Ranking status will elevate the stature of the ADT to even greater heights as it gives up-coming players the opportunity to play in the 2016 Olympics.

“This is great because it motivates the younger players to play on the ADT and if they win or finish high on the leaderboard, they will earn world ranking points which will help lift their careers,” added the Singaporean.
Nachimuthu, the PGM Tour’s number one in 2011, peppered the flags with acute iron shots and was rewarded with three birdies in the last four holes to share the first round honours.
“I’ve been working a lot with my coach (Andrew Argus) and it seems to be paying off. I kept calm and hit a lot of greens which helped. I think the players can really benefit from earning world ranking points,” said Nachimuthu.
Malaysians Wilson Choo, Khor Kheng Hwai and Irfan Yusof and Austrian Uli Weinhandl, Grant Jackson of England, Mitsuhiko Hashizume of Japan, Lam Chih Bing of Singapore, James Bowen of the United States, Lindsay Renolds of Canada and Edward Reyes of the Philippines posted identical 69s for tied ninth.
Leading first round scores
67 – R. Nachimuthu (MAS), Mardan MAMAT (SIN)
68 – S. Murthy (MAS), Gary KNIGHT (USA), Wolmer MURILLO (VEN), Darren TAN (AUS), Iain STEEL (MAS), Nick REDFERN (ENG)
69 – Wilson CHOO (MAS), Uli WEINHANDL (AUT), Grant JACKSON (ENG), Mitsuhiko HASHIZUME (JPN), KHOR Kheng Hwai (MAS), LAM Chih Bing (SIN), James BOWEN (USA), Lindsay RENOLDS (CAN), Edward REYES (PHI), Irfan YUSOF (MAS)
About the Asian Development Tour
The Asian Development Tour was launched in 2010 with the aim of creating a career pathway for professional golfers in Asia. Sanctioned by the Asian Tour, the Asian Development Tour will ultimately create a new playing platform for emerging stars from across Asia and around the world. Through the Asian Tour Qualifying School, players will qualify for the Asian Development Tour and enjoy the opportunity to hone their games and talent through a secondary circuit in Asia. Designed in the same structure as the Nationwide Tour in America and European Challenge Tour, the Asian Development Tour is a stepping stone to the Asian Tour and the exciting world of international golf. The Asian Development Tour has been structured to ensure the best opportunities for its members. The leading three players on the Asian Development Tour will earn coveted Asian Tour cards for the following season, ensuring a proper career pathway for aspiring professionals. The ADT will also receive Official World Golf Ranking points from 2013.

Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia, January 29: The burgeoning Asian Development Tour (ADT), which is the secondary circuit of the Asian Tour, enters a new and exciting era when the third season begins tomorrow with all events receiving Official World Golf Ranking points from this year onwards.
The RM200,000 (approximately US$65,000) PGM CCM Rahman Putra Masters in Malaysia will enjoy the privilege of becoming the first ADT tournament to receive world ranking points, which will be used to determine the field when golf makes a return to the Olympics in Rio De Janeiro in 2016.
Asian Tour Executive Chairman Kyi Hla Han said: “This week marks a new dawn for the ADT. It is a wonderful recognition for the ADT to have Official World Golf Ranking status and this will offer emerging players the opportunity to boost their rankings and play their way into the Olympics in 2016 with consistent performances.
“From the record numbers of 748 golfers at our recent Qualifying School, we expect the fields in our ADT events to be even stronger this season.”
Highly rated Nicholas Fung of Malaysia is in buoyant mood ahead of the Rahman Putra Masters, having successfully earned his Asian Tour card through Qualifying School in Thailand last weekend.
“It is a very good opportunity to boost my points on the Official World Golf Ranking. I think this is good for up-coming players such as myself,” said the bespectacled Fung, who will be amongst the favourites at the Rahman Putra Club this week.
“My confidence is really high at the moment since Qualifying School. Earning my Asian Tour card really helped with my confidence and I’ve been playing very well. I was very happy when I finished inside the top-40 because I can play more on the Asian Tour and also hone my game on the ADT,” added Fung, who is the PGM Tour’s number one.
Sanctioned with the PGM Tour, the tournament will kick start the ADT Order of Merit race where the top three players at the end of the season will earn Asian Tour cards for 2014.
All winners on the ADT will receive a minimum of six world ranking points while the top-six players and ties will earn points based on a sliding scale.
Indonesia’s George Gandranata, who finished 32nd on the ADT Order of Merit last year, is excited at the opportunity of earning world ranking points and taking his career to the next level.
“It is a good opportunity to get world ranking points and also as much experience as I can get. Hopefully I can finish inside the coveted top three on the Order of Merit this season and play on the bigger stage (Asian Tour).
“The goal for me has changed because I’m playing in my second year on the ADT. I’m not just trying to make the cut now. I’ll try to win or finish high up on the leaderboard to get world ranking points,” said Gandranata.
Singapore’s Quincy Quek, winner of the ICTSI Orchard Golf Championship on the ADT last season, believes the standard of the ADT has grown substantially since its inauguration in 2010 when five tournaments were staged. Eight events were held in 2011 while a record 13 were played last season.
“It is good there is something to look forward to. It is a bonus to have world ranking points and it will also mean that the ADT fields will get stronger because the guys will see the benefits of playing here. It will be good for the Tour and I think it can bring it to another level,” said the 26-year-old.
American James Owen hopes to make amends for missing the grade at Qualifying School last week and is aiming to shine in his first season in Asia.
“There’s so much to offer in Asia especially the world ranking points. You can’t work your way up in your career in the smaller Tours back in the United States. But if you win here then you have a chance to move on to bigger things,” said Owen, who turned professional in 2008.
“I didn’t earn my Asian Tour card but my plan is to play on the ADT this season and try to make it on the big stage. The competition here is great and you get to travel the world and see different cultures. I’m more relaxed over here because it is a different type of experience,” he added.
Among the notable names playing at the PGM CCM Rahman Putra Masters include Singaporeans Mardan Mamat and Lam Chih Bing, Zaw Moe of Myanmar, Shaaban Hussin of Malaysia and Unho Park of Australia.
About the Asian Development Tour
The Asian Development Tour was launched in 2010 with the aim of creating a career pathway for professional golfers in Asia. Sanctioned by the Asian Tour, the Asian Development Tour will ultimately create a new playing platform for emerging stars from across Asia and around the world. Through the Asian Tour Qualifying School, players will qualify for the Asian Development Tour and enjoy the opportunity to hone their games and talent through a secondary circuit in Asia. Designed in the same structure as the Nationwide Tour in America and European Challenge Tour, the Asian Development Tour is a stepping stone to the Asian Tour and the exciting world of international golf. The Asian Development Tour has been structured to ensure the best opportunities for its members. The leading three players on the Asian Development Tour will earn coveted Asian Tour cards for the following season, ensuring a proper career pathway for aspiring professionals. The ADT will also receive Official World Golf Ranking points from 2013.

Jakarta, January 28: Irish star Darren Clarke and New Zealand’s Michael Campbell will join fellow Major champions Ernie Els and John Daly for the US$750,000 CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters 2013 at Royale Jakarta Golf Club from May 2–5.
The inclusion of Clarke and Campbell, along with multiple Tour winner Simon Dyson of England, is a huge boost for the prestigious event, which will now have four Major winners competing against the best players from the Asian Tour.
Clarke and Els are both British Open champions, with both winning the world’s oldest Major in 2011 and 2012 respectively while Campbell is a former U.S. Open champion. Daly won the 1991 U.S. PGA Championship and 1995 British Open.
Dyson is a golfing hero in Asia in his own right. With several wins on both the Asian Tour and European Tour, he won the Asian Tour Order of Merit crown in 2000 during his rookie professional season and also claimed victory in the Indonesia Open in 2006.
“It is fantastic to see so many new stars confirmed for the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters 2013 which signifies our rapid growth. Our aim when we took up the title sponsor position in 2012 was to be a part of an international golf tournament, which helps to inspire Indonesian golfers as well as assist in the development of the game at the junior and amateur level,” said, Gatot Subagio, Head of Corporate Communications of PT Bank CIMB Niaga Tbk
With the participation of Simon Dyson, Darren Clarke, Michael Campbell, Ernie Els and John Daly in the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters 2013 combined with the announcement of our Amateur League and Youth Development initiatives, we are confident that our event is setting the stage for the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters to continue to grow into one of the biggest tournaments in the region.”

Asian Tour Executive Chairman Kyi Hla Han said: “It is wonderful to see the addition of international stars for the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters, which keeps growing in stature with each passing year. As a full-field Asian Tour tournament, our talented members look forward to competing against many of the best players in the world at a truly wonderful venue in the Royale Jakarta Golf Club. I would like to express our fullest appreciation to CIMB Niaga who is taking every effort to further raise the profile of this wonderful event which will profile Indonesia to the world.”
The announcement comes at the same time as new sponsors sign up to be part of Indonesia’s most prestigious international golfing event. Telkomsel (Official Communications partner) and Sari Pan Pacific Hotel Jakarta (Official Hotel) join the family of sponsors in celebrating all the new developments of the event.
The CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters 2013 will also start its Amateur League series at Royale Jakarta Golf Club this month. All amateurs are welcome to play on any Tuesday or Wednesday at the host venue, off the black tees and can enter their scores at the end of each round to be counted in the Order of Merit which will be featured on the event’s website www.indonesianmasters.co.id.
A minimum of three rounds must be played to qualify for a ranking and the leading amateur at the end of March 2013 will win a spot to play in the tournament proper representing the Indonesian Golf Association (Persatuan Golf Indonesia).
The Youth Development initiatives include monthly clinics for the juniors of Indonesia, selected by the Indonesian Golf Association, as well as a one-day qualifying tournament for 40 of Indonesia’s best juniors who can attempt to win a spot to play in tournament proper.
The best performing juniors will also be given exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the event during the event week as an added incentive for them to give their best performance during the clinics.
“The initiatives for amateurs and juniors of the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters are certainly very welcomed by the Indonesian Golf Association. Our focus is to keep developing our young golfers and also provide a strong platform for them to grow into our future talents for the nation. We are thankful to CIMB Niaga and all the other partners as well as the organisers of the event for encompassing all aspects of the game through their event. It is clear they have the goal to have a sustainable event for the country and we are proud to support the event together with the Professional Golfers Association of Indonesia, PGA Indonesia” said Rizal Arya from the Indonesian Golf Association.
Besides developing the youth and amateurs of Indonesia, the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters is also committed to giving back to the community through their association with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. The event serves to raise funds to build homes for families in need in Indonesia and have so far managed to help 25 families by providing them with a decent home to live in.
The CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters will have widespread exposure via a strong local media platform and the Asian Tour’s global television platform, which reaches over 200 countries and 650 million households on the Live, Highlights, Asian Tour Golf Show and Golfing World.
Indonesia’s premier news channel, Metro TV, will also be broadcasting the event locally for 10 hours live and will be airing additional shows and features related to the event and the positive impact to the golf industry and overall economy of Indonesia.
Partners include Title Sponsor CIMB Niaga, PNTS (Main Partner), Salonpas by Hisamitsu (Main Partner), BMW (Official Car), Navigat Energy (Main Partner), Telkomsel (Official Communications Partner), Sari Pan Pacific Hotel Jakarta (Official Hotel), Rolex (Official Time Keeper) and San Miguel (Official Beer).
About CIMB Niaga
CIMB Niaga was established as Bank Niaga in 1955. CIMB Group holds around 97.94% of the stakes in CIMB Niaga. The Bank offers a comprehensive suite of both conventional and Islamic banking products and services, through an expanding delivery channel network of 968 offices all over Indonesia as at 30 September 2012, including 608 branches, 314 Mikro Laju units, and 46 cash/payment points. CIMB Niaga has more than 14,000 employees.
CIMB Niaga encourages people to share high growth and take advantage of all the potential that South-East Asia regions bring – in line with CIMB Group’s brand positioning: “ASEAN for You”.
CIMB Group is Malaysia’s second largest financial services provider and one of ASEAN’s leading universal banking groups. It offers consumer banking, investment banking, Islamic banking, asset management and insurance products and services. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, the Group is now present in 9 out of 10 ASEAN nations (Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Cambodia, Brunei, Vietnam, Myanmar and Philippines). Beyond ASEAN, the Group has market presence in China, Hong Kong, Bahrain, India, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Australia, the US, UK and Korea. CIMB Group is listed on Bursa Malaysia via CIMB Group Holdings Berhad. It has a market capitalisation of USD18.2 billion as at 30 September 2012. The Group has over 43,000 employees located in 18 countries.
About the Asian Tour
As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Rolex (Official Timekeeper), J.Lindeberg (Official Apparel Partner), Starwood Hotels and Resorts (Official Hotels and Resorts),), Inetol Headwear (Official Headwear Supplier), Royal Selangor (Official Trophy Supplier), Singha Beer (Official Beer), BlackBerry (Official Mobile) and Srixon (Official Ball). The Asian Tour has offices in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

January 27: Three-time Asian Tour Order of Merit winner Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand enjoyed another top-10 finish when he signed off with a four-under-par 68 at the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters on Saturday.
Thongchai’s closed his campaign at the Doha Golf Club with a four-day total of 11-under-par 277 to take a share of ninth place, seven shots behind winner Chris Wood of England.
The Thai has already got his 2013 season off to a flying start where he finished in third place at the Volvo Golf Championship and tied-ninth at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship a fortnight ago.
Compatriot Prom Meesawat was a shot back of Thongchai in equal 16th after posting rounds of 71,71, 68 and 68 while Australia’s Marcus Fraser, who held a share of the second lead, finish tied 22nd alongside South Africa’s Jbe Kruger on 279.
India’s S.S.P. Chowrasia finished in tied-49th following a closing 72.
Over in the United States, Asian Tour honorary member, K.J. Choi of Korea, also enjoyed another top-10 finish when he closed with a 281 to take tied-ninth place of at the Farmers Insurance Open. Seven-time Asian Tour winner, Charlie Wi of Korea, on the other hand, carded a 71 for his final round to finish at tied-21st.
Ends.

January 26: South Africa’s Jbe Kruger continued his good from by carding a four-under-par 68 to stay five shots back of the leaders in tied- seventh place after the third round of the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters on Friday.
Kruger, who finished third on the Asian Tour Order of Merit last year, enjoyed a bogey-free round where he marked his card with four birdies on holes two, 10, 17 and 18 for a three-day total of 10-under-par 206 at the Doha Golf Club.
Overnight joint-leader, Marcus Fraser of Australia, slipped down the leaderboard after signing for a 71 which left him in equal seventh place alongside Kruger, Denmark’s Thorbjorn Olesen and South Africa’s George Coetzee.
Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee signed for a 70 to take a share of 23rd place while compatriot Prom Meesawat posted a 68 to move up 19 places to tied 31st.
India’s S.S.P. Chowrasia fired a 69 to move to tied-45th, 11 shots behind English leader Chris Wood.
Over in the United States, seven-time Asian Tour winner Charlie Wi of Korea fired a 66 to stay four shots back of second round leader Tiger Woods of the United States in tied-ninth at the Farmers Insurance Open.
Asian Tour honorary member, K.J. Choi of Korea, who held the first round lead, could not maintain his position atop the leaderboard after a second round 73 saw him slip to a share of 16th place.
Ends.

CHAN KIM (USA), FINAL ROUND, SIX-UNDER-PAR 65, TOTAL 272
I was in the cut line last year at the final round but ended up shooting four over and missed it. This time round, I’m in the cut line and my scores are even lower. I knew I needed to play well today, regardless of how many it was. I got off to a good start. I’ve missing a lot of short putts all week but finally make a putt on the 10th. Overall it was a good round. This week has been fun. I met a lot of new people. There are a lot of good players around. It was a really good experience. I’ve heard a lot of good things about the Asian Tour. I live in the States but even in the States, a lot of people are talking about the Asian Tour. It’s a growing tour and I’ve heard of its good reputation. I play on the Challenge Tour in Europe as well but it depends on what the schedules are. I’ll be based in Korea for this entire season as I’ve got a couple of relatives over there. Hopefully I can get something going this season!
TIM STEWART (AUS), FINAL ROUND, TWO-UNDER-PAR 69, TOTAL 274
I really enjoyed playing on the Asian Tour after playing the full season last year but I also have to do some work like figuring out what I’ve done wrong through the year. I guess it has all been paid off now and I’m feeling good. That’s what I’ve been trying to do. I think there are a lot of things that I can take out from this week. I’ve to be patient with my game, stick to my game more often and plan what I want to do for the year. I am always looking forward to my first win, including this week. I will just work harder this year and whatever my results might be will be.
LIONEL WEBER (A) (FRA), FINAL ROUND, THREE-UNDER-PAR 68, TOTAL 277
I’m very happy to play in the Asian Tour Q-School this week. It has been my dream to turn a professional golfer and begin my career on a major tour like the Asian Tour. It’s just fantastic for me. I’m planning to turn professional so you will be seeing me in Myanmar next month (Zaykabar Myanmar Open presented by Alpine). I started playing golf at the age of six and I won the French Championship when I was 16. I was also the French Amateur Stroke Play Champion for 2012, as well as the Italian International Amateur Championship. I think this is a good timing for me to turn professional. I took part in the European Tour Q-school but missed by two shots. I’m happy to be able to play on the Asian Tour. I arrived in Hua Hin one month ago to train myself and get used to the playing conditions here. Perhaps that’s the reason why I am playing well this two weeks. I’ve never been here before in Asia but I do love to travel here.
CHOO TZE HUANG (SIN), FINAL ROUND, TWO-UNDER-PAR 69, TOTAL 281
I think I played really good today as per the last two days. I didn’t really feel the pressure until I was at the last hole. I just kept focusing on what I need to do and telling myself to take one shot at a time. I got ahead of myself a little bit after the 13th hole when I made a bogey on the 14th. I thought I should just remain composed and try to hang in there till the last hole. Overall I think I played really well and I can’t complain about it. We made mistakes out there but I’m happy I gave myself a chance to make it into the top 40. I really enjoyed myself throughout the four days here playing in the Asian Tour Q-School. I had a great start and my dad gave me a very good piece of advice that really helped me this week. He told me that this week is not a competition but a marathon because we’ve got four days out there. I was lucky enough to make the cut after the second day and I was able to give myself many chances over the last two days. I’m just pleased that I can put myself in that position. I’ll definitely have more events to play this year. I’m looking forward to getting better and I’ll try to make a mark on the Asian Tour.

Hua Hin, Thailand, January 26: Korean-American Chan Kim made up for the disappointment of missing out on his Tour card last year by topping the class at the Asian Tour Qualifying School Final Stage presented by Sports Authority of Thailand on Saturday.

After four days of gruelling battle, Kim finally emerged tops with a closing six-under-par 65 to lead 41 players on 13-under-par 272 into the new 2013 Asian Tour season at Springfield Royal Country Club.
Canada’s Richard Lee signed for a 74 to take second place on 273 while Australia’s Tim Stewart regained his full status by posting a 66 to take third place.
France’s Lionel Weber and Spain’s Carlos Pigem were the two amateurs to earn their Tour cards after they closed with a 68 and 72 to take tied-sixth and 12th place respectively.
After finishing in tied-61st place at Qualifying School last year, Kim was determined not to let history repeat itself.
“I was staring at the cut line last year at the final round but ended up shooting four-over and missed it. I knew I needed to play well today, regardless of how many it was and I’m just glad I made it,” said Kim, who was raised in Hawaii where he won the Hawaii State Amateur Stroke Play in 2007.
Kim is looking forward to returning to the birthplace of his parents now that he has earned his well-deserved Tour card.
“I live in the States but even in the States, a lot of people are talking about the Asian Tour. It’s a growing Tour and I’ve heard of its good reputation,” said Kim.
“I’ll be based in Korea for this entire season as I’ve got a couple of relatives over there. Hopefully I can get something going!” added Kim.
Meanwhile Lee is excited to revive his golfing career on the Asian Tour after losing his card on the Web.com Tour in the United States.
“I had status on Web.com for the last four years. Unfortunately I lost my Tour card this year. I wanted to try something new so I came out here and it has been going well,” said Lee.
“I’m Asian and I want to play out here as the competition and money is a lot better on the Asian Tour,” said Lee.
After finishing in 97th place on the Order of Merit last season, Stewart knew he had to get over his disappointment quickly and was delighted to regain his playing privileges for the 2013 season.

“No one really enjoys being back here in Q School after getting to play a full season last year. I had to do some work and figure out what went wrong last year. I guess it has all paid off now,” said Stewart.
“I’ve to stay patient and not try new things that I tend to do throughout the year like changing equipment. I’m always looking forward to my first win and I’ll just have to work harder this year,” added the Australian
Following an impressive amateur career that saw him win the French Amateur Stroke Play Championship and the Italian International Amateur Championship last year, Weber is now ready to make the bold leap into the professional ranks.
“It has been my dream to turn a professional golfer and begin my career on a major Tour like the Asian Tour. You’ll be seeing me in Myanmar next month!” exclaimed Weber.

The 22-year-old’s maiden voyage to Asia saw him arriving in Hua Hin a month ago to practise and acclimatise himself to the climate.
It proved to be a decision that has paid off handsomely for the Frenchman.
“I arrived in Hua Hin one month ago to train and get used to the playing conditions here. Perhaps that’s the reason why I am playing well these two weeks,” said Weber.
“I’ve never been here before in Asia but I do love to travel here. I’m happy that I’ll get to do more of these travels this year,” added Weber.
Weber joins the list of promising amateurs who have earned their Asian Tour card through Qualifying School through the years.
They include Korea’s Jin Yong-gab and Australia’s Vernon Sexton-Finck at Qualifying School in 2005 and more recently in 2011, Philippines’ Miguel Tabuena, who agonisingly missed a place in the top-40 by one shot after he signed for a closing 72.
Notable names who finished in the top-40 and ties to earn their Asian Tour card for 2013 include Japan’s Kodai Ichihara, Malaysia’s Nicholas Fung, India’s Rahil Gangjee and Singapore’s Choo Tze Huang.
Players who play in the Qualifying School are also eligible to play in the Asian Development Tour (ADT) which will be afforded with Official World Golf Ranking points starting this season.
Leading final round scores
272 Chan KIM (USA) 70-68-69-65
273 Richard LEE (CAN) 65-68-66-74
274 Tim STEWART (AUS) 69-70-66-69
276 Thomas PETERSSON (SWE) 66-73-66-71, Kodai ICHIHARA (JPN) 67-69-67-73
277 Lionel WEBER (A) (FRA) 72-70-67-68, Miles TUNNICLIFF (ENG) 66-68-72-71, David LUTTERUS (AUS) 69-70-67-71, Steve LEWTON (ENG) 68-65-71-73, Donlaphatchai NIYOMCHON (THA) 64-66-72-75
278 Nicolas MEITINGER (GER) 67-76-68-67, Sam CYR (USA) 70-68-72-68, Rattanon WANNASRICHAN (THA) 71-72-67-68, Peter GUSTAFSSON (SWE) 69-71-68-70, Carlos PIGEM (A) (ESP) 71-68-67-72, Adam GROOM (AUS) 66-71-68-73
279 Konosuke NAKAZATO (JPN) 68-71-71-69, Nicholas FUNG (MAS) 68- 69-69-73, HUNG Chien-yao (TPE) 68-70-68-73,Yoshinobu TSUKADA (JPN) 68-66-70-75
Ends.
About the Asian Tour
As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Abacus (Official Apparel Partner), BlackBerry (Official Communications Partner), Inetol Headwear (Official Headwear Supplier), Singha Beer (Official Beer), Srixon (Official Ball), Starwood Hotels and Resorts (Official Hotels and Resorts) and Rolex (Official Timekeeper). The Asian Tour has offices in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

January 25: Australia’s Marcus Fraser remained on course of ending his three-year title drought when he fired a flawless five-under-67 to take a share of the second round lead at the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters on Thursday.
Fraser, who finished second on the Asian Tour Order of Merit last season, compiled a two-day total of nine-under-par 135 to take pole position alongside Spain’s Sergio Garcia, first round Portuguese leader Ricardo Santos and Germany’s Martin Kaymer at the Doha Golf Club.
Fraser’s last win on the Asian Tour came at the Ballantine’s Championship in 2010 but his form has been on an upswing especially last season where he was enjoyed four top-10s and was pipped to the Order of Merit title by Thailand’s Thaworn Wiratchant only at the season-ending event in Johor.
“Overall I felt like I played pretty steadily most of the day. I made a few birdies once I got on to the back nine, which was the front nine, but I’m pretty happy with the day,” said Fraser, who marked his card with birdies on holes one, two, four, six and seven.
“It is definitely one of those courses where you need to be patient and just take your chances where you can get them,” added the Australian.
South Africa’s Jbe Kruger improved on his opening 70 by carding a 68 to stay three shots back of the leaders in tied-15th place while Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee is a further shot back in tied-20th place on 139.
Prom Meesawat of Thailand matched his opening 71 to take equal 50th place while India’s S.S.P. Chowrasia made it safely into the final two rounds after carding rounds of 70 and 73.
Over at the Framers Insurance Open in the US, Asian Tour honorary member K.J. Choi of Korea took his place atop the leaderboard with defending champion Brandt Snedeker of the United States.
Choi birdied three of his last four holes on the tougher South Course at Torrey Pines for a 65.
It was a score which left the Korean extremely delighted as he is not a regular at Torrey Pines and only decided to show up after hearing from his host family in San Diego that the Korean community wanted to see him play
“Best shot ever on the South Course , ever,” said a grinning Choi.
Ends.

Hua Hin, Thailand, January 25: Malaysia’s Arie Fauzi is planning to break out of the amateur ranks after he edged closer to securing his Tour card by carding a two-under-par 69 at the third round of the Asian Tour Qualifying School Final Stage presented by Sports Authority of Thailand on Friday.
The 22-year-old, who recently graduated from the University of Tulsa on a golf scholarship, put together a three-day total of seven-under-par 207 and is in tied-18th place at the Springfield Royal Country Club.
“I actually came here with the intention of finishing inside the top-20 although I know the goal is top-40. If I set the benchmark higher, I know a top-40 finish will just take care of itself,” said Arie.

“The next event after Qualifying School would be in Myanmar next month. There’s still time to consider and there’s a very high chance that I’ll turn pro. But I’ll have to discuss with my family first,” added the Malaysian.
The young Malaysian has been harbouring thoughts of turning professional, having enjoyed a chequered amateur career which has been highlighted by his win at the Malaysian Amateur Stroke Play Championship in 2008.
“The Asian Tour Qualifying School is a benchmark to see where I am with the pros and so far it has been good,” added Arie.
Having honed his skills in the United States, Arie counts himself as the next generation of golfers to lead golf in Malaysia to greater heights.
“I played four years of college golf at the University of Tulsa and just graduated last month in December. Playing college golf really got me mentally stronger as it was a tough transition, having to play under all-weather conditions in the US,” said Arie.
“I believe I can step up and spearhead Malaysia’s challenge. There are others like Gavin (Kyle Green) who has done well at the Iskandar Johor Open. Gavin and I share a friendly rivalry. Malaysia golf is going in the right direction and I’m willing to do more for Malaysia,” added Arie.
After steering his country into the World Cup in 2009, Pakistan’s Muhammad Munir is now hoping for another achievement by earning his Asian Tour card.
Munir posted rounds of 72, 69 and 66 to end the day in equal 18 alongside six other players that include Arie.

“It was a good feeling, having Pakistan represented at the World Cup then. For now, I just want to concentrate on doing my best and see what happens,” added the Pakistani.
While golf may not command the same kind of attention as popular sports like cricket or hockey in Pakistan, Muhammad is hoping to be among the pioneers to turn the spotlight on the sport by performing well on the Asian Tour.
“There’re not many golf courses in Pakistan and also not many big sponsors stepping up to support the sport. God willing, I hope to attract more sponsorship by playing well on the Asian Tour.
Despite signing for a 70 where he is just one shot back from the top-40 and ties, Indonesia’s Rory Hie remained upbeat of his chances of securing his Tour card.
“I feel like I’ve had two different rounds this morning. The front nine was really good but the back nine was very bad. Overall I shot a one-under so if I can play well tomorrow, I should be able to make it into the top-40,” said Hie.
Hie was once ranked the sixth best-amateur in the world before he turned professional in 2008.
One of the events that Hie is looking forward to play on the Asian Tour this year is the Indonesian Open, which will return to the Tour’s 2013 schedule.

“I finished tied-second two years ago and was tied-ninth last year. Hopefully I can play well again this year. I hope to get my rankings up and play in co-sanctioned events if I can get my card this week,” said Hie.
Players who play in the Qualifying School are also eligible to play in the Asian Development Tour (ADT) which will be afforded with Official World Golf Ranking points starting this season.
Ends.
About the Asian Tour
As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Abacus (Official Apparel Partner), BlackBerry (Official Communications Partner), Inetol Headwear (Official Headwear Supplier), Singha Beer (Official Beer), Srixon (Official Ball), Starwood Hotels and Resorts (Official Hotels and Resorts) and Rolex (Official Timekeeper). The Asian Tour has offices in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.