Champions set for battle
Stiff competition expected as best amateurs gather for showdown in Shah Alam
THE 32nd edition of Golf Malaysia’s Champion of Champions Tournament could well turn out be an historic occasion for Lim Kian Chong and Audrey Tan when the event is held at Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Golf & Country Club in Shah Alam on Friday and Saturday.
The seniors and women’s champion will be chasing hattricks when they tee it up in Shah Alam, having claimed their titles for two years in a row.
“Make no mistake, winning this tournament brings well earned crowing rights and a coveted US Masters-style green jacket,” said Golf Malaysia general manager Andrew Ng.
“It’s a special event as it is made up of players who are club champions, drawn from around Malaysia and Singapore.
“Thus, the quality of the field is of a very high standard, boasting many of the best amateur players out there. And this year, just as it has been over the years, we expect the competition to be stiff among the leading contenders and closely fought battles in each of the divisions,” he added.
“It should also be interesting to see how 68-year-old Lim, of Glenmarie Golf & Country Club, Audrey, 16, of Kelab Rekreasi Angkatan Tentera, do as they bid to make it three-in-a-row.
“In the main men’s category Leroy Chiam won at TPC Kuala Lumpur last year and this time around there will be a string of new club champions waiting in the wings to make their mark on the event.
“For sure,” added Ng, “behind all the camaraderie and socialising at the event, the spirit of competition and sportsmanship will also shine through.
“This is an opportunity to make a mark in club golf by players who are serious amateurs. Some of them might have missed their calling as professionals, but winning as an amateur still provides a numero uno feeling.”
This year’s championship is being supported by property developer, CK East Group, an integrated real estate and construction service group.
Also showcasing and promoting their products will be long-time event partner Srixon Sports Asia, who again the main sponsor.
“Golf Malaysia also uses the tournament as a means of “giving something back” for all the support and goodwill received from golfers in general, as well as golf retailers, golf clubs and the industry as a whole, said Ng.
“It’s also helps promote the game, not only as a sport, but one that teaches life skills in all that it embraces,” he added.