Preparations shaping up
Maybank Championship promises another event to remember
THINGS are gathering pace rather nicely for the third staging of the Maybank Championship, an event sanctioned by both the Asian and European Tours.
Tournament promoters, GlobalOne chief executive officer, John Eu, told TeeUp this week that they were “happy” with the progress being made in the preparations for the US$3mil event – one of the highlights on both the Malaysian and Asian Tour calendars.
“Yes, things are moving forward nicely,” said Eu. “With less than a month to go now before the tournament gets underway, we have made significant progress in preparing for what we intend to be an event to remember.”
Probed on what he thought might stand out this year, Eu said the inclusion of a number of young and up-and-coming players “excited” him and that he looked to maybe seeing an Asian winning.
“The changing of the guard in world golf is well and truly underway and now there are several young players who have made their presence felt and should be around for a long time to come,” he added.
Among others, he singled out 27-year-old South African Dylan Frittelli as one to watch.
“This young man is just a joy watch,” said Eu. “I think he has the game to be contending for a long time.
“His win, under so much pressure, in Mauritius was a good example of why I believe he will take some beating in the future.”
Japan’s Yusaku Miyazato, who won three times on the Japan Golf Tour last season and is now in the world’s top-50, was another player Eu sad he would be keeping an eye on.
An event that always seems to attract a strong field, the Maybank Championship has already confirmed the participation world number nine Henrik Stenson, who will be making his debut at the tournament, to be staged at Saujana Golf &Country Club from Feb 1 to 4.
For the fans, there will again be loads of things to do and see, with numerous activities lined up.
The Village and Chill Out Area will no doubt be a popular spot. Here fans can enjoy exclusive offerings from Maybank’s partners and sponsors.
The MaybankHeart Silent Auction is a charity programme that is expected to enjoy good support from all-round. Fans can visit the gallery and place their bids for exclusive signed merchandise by past and present players. The highest bidders for each item will win.
Also, entry on the Thursday (Feb 1) will be free. This is in celebration of Federal Territory Day, thus the complimentary gesture.