Good afternoon distinguished guests, sponsors, friends of the Asian Tour and members of the media.
On behalf of the Asian Tour, it gives me great pleasure and honour to be here for this press conference to announce details for the 2008 Midea China Classic.
First and foremost, I would like to welcome the announcement from our title sponsor, Midea, who have generously increased the prize fund for the Midea China Classic by US$100,000, making this year’s event a lucrative US$500,000 affair.
It is also with sincere appreciation that I extend the Asian Tour’s fullest gratitude for the support and commitment that Midea has placed behind the game of golf in China and Asia as sponsors are the lifeblood of professional sport.
The tournament will return once again to the impressive Royal Orchid International Golf Club in Guangzhou and our talented players are certainly looking forward to playing in the Midea China Classic once again.
The Management and staff did a great job in preparing its championship course last year and I’m sure the venue will be at its best when the Asian Tour stars return from October 16-19.
We are also honoured and privileged to extend our strong working relationship with the China Golf Association. With the CGA’s commitment, vision and passion to promote professional golf in China, the Asian Tour has a wonderful partner who share in our goal to further develop this great game across the region.
Golf fans can expect many of the best players from the Asian Tour and China’s home heroes to grace the fairways of Royal Orchid International Golf Club and I’m sure you will enjoy a truly world-class affair.
To the members of the media, thank you for your support as every word and picture published in the media will go a long way in promoting golf.
The Asian Tour is confident of another highly successful outing in the Midea China Classic and I hope to see you all again in October.
Thank You.