Thai Teams Claim All Prizes In SEA Amateur Golf Team Championship At Emeralda Golf Club

After the final round of the SEA Amateur Golf Team Championship 2012 it was clear that Thailand is still the team to beat when it comes to golf in the South East Asian region, as all three cups, the Putra Cup (men), the Santi Cup (ladies) and Lion City Cup (juniors) will be in their possession for the coming year. The Indonesia Golf Association (PGI), this year's organizers of the tournament, were at the start optimistic on the host nations' chances of winning, but from day one had to settle for places further back in the field. The tournament was held from 28 to 31 August at Emeralda Golf Club Cimanggis, Depok, just south of Jakarta.

Putra Cup

The Thai men took home the Putra Cup with a total team score of 854, with Singapore (867) in second place. The Indonesian team, who were in fourth place for the first 3 rounds, managed to catch up with the Malaysian team for a share of third with a total team score of 891.

Singaporean Jonathan Woo, who was already in the individual lead, scored the lowest round for the tournament with a 66, giving him a total of 12 under par 276. Thailand's Srithong Natipong overtook his countryman Buranatanyarat Itthipat with both men finishing with 285 and 287 for second and third place respectively. For Indonesia Rinaldi Adiyandono finished 6^th with a score of 293, ahead of Ian Andrew (300, 10^th), and Elki Kow and Jordan Surya Irawan, both in a 4-way tie for 14^th with a total of 303.

Santi Cup

Also the Santi Cup is going to Thailand, with the Thai ladies finishing with a total score of 871, in second place the Philippines (876), and Malaysia (879) in third place. The Indonesian ladies maintained their fourth place with a total team score of 894.

On the ladies individual scoreboard there was another upset day, ending with Jayvie Marie Agojo from the Philippines and Kelly Tan from Malaysia in a tie for the top spot with a total score of 289. Third place went to Supamas Sangchan from Thailand, who finished one shot behind with 290. Of the Indonesian ladies Ika Woro Palupi finished highest with 298 for a 9^th place, with Nanda Winnet Soraya one place further back with 300, Made Dita Widyantari in 14^th place with 306 and Gianti Mahardika on an 18^th place with 308.

Lion City Cup

To complete their dominance the Lion City Cup is as well in Thai hands, where their juniors dominated all four days and with a total team score of 870 outclassed the whole field. Second place Malaysia (903) finished a whopping 33 strokes back, before the Philippines a further 7 strokes for a total team score of 910. The host junior team was able to reduce some of the margin with fifth place Singapore (922), but were already too far back and finished the tournament in 6^th and last place with a total team score of 924. Fourth place for the juniors went to Hong Kong, who finished on 917.

Thailand's Boonma Danthai finished on top with a total score of 284, with countryman Suvajanakorn Nattawat in second with 287. Third place went to Low Khai Jei from Malaysia who ended with a total score of 295. Local junior Peter Gunawan was able to climb a number of positions to finish on 7^th place with a total score of 302. Further back Dicky Prionggo and Joshua Andrew Wirawan shared 18^th place with a score of 315, in front of Kevin Caesario Akbar who finished 20^th with a total of 320.

For complete final results click here.

INA-Burdock Open Golf Tournament

The official Benelux Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia (INA, the Indonesia Netherlands Association) is inviting members and guests to join them for a pleasant day of networking at this year’s INA-Burdock Open Golf Tournament!

The Tournament will be held at the Riverside Golf Club on Friday 19 October 2012. It will start at 6.30 hrs (tee-off at 7.00 hrs) and last until 12.00 noon, followed by a luncheon and the hand out of prizes, while you enjoying cold Heineken beer. You will have the pleasure to play on a challenging course of natural beauty, designed by Greg Norman. Get a kick-start with a delicious Malongo coffee or nice breakfast at Riverside.

To add to the enjoyable play, get a chance to win attractive prizes from their sponsors.

Participation fee is Rp 1,000,000 for members, and Rp 1,200,000 for non-members. This includes breakfast, green fee, caddy fee and lunch.

For registration send an email to ina@ina.or.id

You can contact their Marketing Manager (Ms. Shinta Halm) to discuss the possibilities to sponsor this event at +62 21 5290 2177, or via e-mail at marketing@ina.or.id (before 1 October 2012).

Thais Still In Charge In SEA Amateur Golf Team Championship At Emeralda Golf Club

The third day of the SEA Amateur Golf Team Championship 2012 saw no changes in the overall standings, with the Thai teams still in the lead for all cups. The tournament, organized by the Indonesia Golf Association (PGI), is held from 28 to 31 August at Emeralda Golf Club in Cimanggis, Depok, just south of Jakarta.

Putra Cup

No changes in the top at the Putra Cup where the Thai men are still in the lead with a total team score of 648 before Singapore (651), Malaysia (666), and the Indonesian team in fourth with a total team score of 674.

On the individual leaderboard Singaporean Jonathan Woo kept the lead with a total score of 210, one shot ahead of Buranatanyarat Itthipat who once more shot the lowest round of the day with a 67. Srithong Natipong couldn't keep up and dropped to third with a total score of 217 after carding a 73. Best Indonesian is still Rinaldi Adiyandono who is now alone in 5^th, after a round of 73 for a total of 219.

Santi Cup

Also the Santi Cup saw no changes in the top four, with the ladies team from Thailand (651) maintaining their lead over the Philippines (656), and Malaysia (658) with the home team still in fourth place with a total team score of 671.

Chanya Prathetrat, who took the lead with a round of 67 yesterday, had a disastrous round today, and dropped to a share of 5^th after writing 79 on her score card today. This allowed Philippines' Princess Mary Superal (216) to take back the lead, one shot ahead of Thailand's Budsabakorn Sukapan and Kelly Tan from Malaysia. Ika Woro Palupi is still the leading lady from the host nation, but she dropped 2 places to a tie for 9^th place with a total score of 225.

Lion City Cup

No changes either for the Indonesian junior team, that is still in 6th and last place for the Lion City Cup with a total team score of 705. Thailand (656) is still in the lead, followed by Philippines (679) and Malaysia (680).

The individual lead is still for Thailand's Boonma Danthai (210), but he's now followed by countryman Suvajanakorn Nattawat (216) who climbed up the ranking with a round of 66, overtaking Malaysia's Low Khai Jei (222) who is now in third-place tie with Lloyd Jefferson Go from the Philippines. Best local junior is still Peter Gunawan (232) who dropped to a tie for thirteenth after a round of 78.

For more result and pairing information for the final round click here.

Thailand Thightens Grip On SEA Amateur Golf Team Championship 2012 At Emeralda

Day 2 of the SEA Amateur Golf Team Championship 2012 saw the Thai take over control with the lead for all cups. Meanwhile the Indonesian teams were unable to improve their rankings. The tournament, organized by the Indonesia Golf Association (PGI), is held from 28 to 31 August at Emeralda Golf Club in Cimanggis, Depok, just south of Jakarta.

Putra Cup

In the Putra Cup the Thai men caught up with first day leader Singapore with a total team score of 434. Malaysia (445) is still in third and the home team in fourth with a total team score of 455.

Rinaldi Adiyandono (146) dropped from second to share of 5^th, while Singaporean Jonathan Woo took the lead with a 69 for a total of 141. Buranatanyarat Itthipat, who shot the lowest round of the day with a 68, and Srithong Natipong, both from Thailand, shared second place with a combined 144, before first day leader Marc Ong in fourth.

Santi Cup

In the Santi Cup no changes in the top four, with the ladies team from Thailand maintaining their lead over the Philippines, and Malaysia and Indonesia in third and fourth place respectively.

Chanya Prathetrat shot a stellar 67 (total 140) to overtake the lead from Philippines' Princess Mary Superal (143) and Thailand's Budsabakorn Sukapan (145) who are now second and fourth. Third place is for Michelle Lay Sia Koh from Malaysia who shot a 68 for a total of 144. Best Indonesian lady is still Ika Woro Palupi who shot another 74 for a total of 148 and is now in a tie for 7^th place.

Lion City Cup

The Indonesian junior team is still in 6th and last place for the Lion City Cup. The team from Thailand is still in the lead, with Philippines taking over Malaysia for second and third respectively.

Thailand's Boonma Danthai shot an amazing 66 and is now with a total of 137 12 shots ahead of Low Khai Jei in second. The Philippines' Angelo Jose Gandioco is currently in third with a total of 150. Peter Gunawan (154) overtook Joshua Andrew Wirawan (158) as the best Indonesian junior with a round of 76. He now shares of ninth place with Joshua in a tie for sixteenth.

For more result and pairing information for the next round click here.

Indonesia Off To A Slow Start At SEA Amateur Golf Team Championships At Emeralda Golf Club

Indonesia was unable to make use of its home course advantage on the first day of the SEA Amateur Golf Team Championship 2012. The tournament, organized by the Indonesia Golf Association (PGI), is held from 28 to 31 August at Emeralda Golf Club in Cimanggis, Depok, just south of Jakarta.

Putra Cup

In the Putra Cup the men are in fourth place after day 1, trailing leader Singapore with 13 shots. Second place is the team from Thailand, with Malaysia currently third.

On the individual leaderboard Rinaldi Adiyandono is the top home player, sharing 2^nd place with Singaporean Jonathan Woo with a even par round of 72. Best round of the day was for Marc Ong, also from Singapore, and the only player under par for the day with a score of 70.

Santi Cup

First day leader in the Santi Cup is the ladies team from Thailand who have a 3-shot lead over the Philippines. Here, like the men, Malaysia and Indonesia are in third and fourth place respectively with the home team 10 shots off the lead.

Best round of the day for the ladies was for Philippines' Princess Mary Superal and Thailand's Budsabakorn Sukapan who both shot an even par 72. They're followed by one shot by Thai ladies Supamas Sangchan and Chanya Prathetrat, whereas best Indonesian lady today was Ika Woro Palupi who was a further shot back in a 4-way tie for 5^th place.

Lion City Cup

The Indonesian junior team, challenging for the Lion City Cup, is in a somewhat disappointing 6^th and last place. The first day lead is here also for Thailand, with Malaysia and Philippines taking second and third.

Thailand's Boonma Danthai lead the individual score with a impressive 1-under, 3 shots ahead of Lloyd Jefferson Go from the Philippines and 4 shots ahead of Suvajanakorn Nattawat in third. Joshua Andrew Wirawan was the best Indonesian junior in a share of fourth place with a round of 76.

For more result and pairing information for the next round click here.

World Class Golf Comes To Makassar

The city of Makassar is located on the southern end of the island of Sulawesi. It is the 10^th largest city in the Indonesian archipelago and home to 1.3 million people. For many decades the only golf in Makassar has been provided by a bare bones military course. That is until a partnership of four local businessmen was formed to bring “world class golf” to the city. Their company, Galesong Group, selected an ideal parcel of land for the creation of Padivalley - a mixed use, master planned golf community located less than 30 minutes drive from the heart of Makassar. In addition to the championship golf course, Padivalley includes housing estates, sports club, resort hotel and day villas.

Padivalley - Hole #14

Padivalley Golf Club is a 7,150 yard, 18-hole layout that flows across mountain shoulders and broad valleys. According to the golf course architect, Bob Moore of JMP Golf Design Group, “The golf course design is an esthetically beautiful layout featuring seven man-made lakes, rocky stream channels, cape & bay bunkers and massive stone walls set against the backdrop of mountain ranges. It is also a golf course that presents tremendous challenge from the championship tees. In its first year of existence it has already been selected to host an ASEAN PGA Tour Event, the 2012 Gowa Padivalley Classic.”

Padivalley - View from the Clubhouse

The Padivalley clubhouse is dramatically perched on a promontory rising 40 meters above the surrounding valley and from which ten of the 18 holes can be seen. The starting holes plunge down from this mountain ridge providing long-range views of more than 30 kilometers. The golf course is environmentally sensitive to the land form and incorporates a unique mix of five par 3s and five par 5s into the par 72 layout. Tees, fairways and roughs are turfed with Salam paspallum, greens are turfed with Sea Isle Supreme paspallum and thousands of ornamental grasses and trees provide framing to the golf course.

Padivalley - Hole #8

SEA Amateur Golf Team Championship To Get Underway At Emeralda Golf Club

Seven countries have confirmed to participate at the Southeast Asia Amateur Golf Team Championship (SAAGTC) 2012, held at Emeralda Golf Club, Cimanggis, from August 28 to 31.

Brunei Darussalam, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia are ready to compete for the Putra Cup, Lion Cup, and Santi Cup that are this year organized by the Indonesia Golf Association (PGI).

"Although we do not offer cash prizes, but only a trophy and the challenge cup, the participants will not play halfheartedly. Because it is an annual event that carries the name of the country so it is very prestigious," said PB PGI Vice Chairman, HMP Simatupang.

Simatupang added that only seven, but 12 countries are expected to perform. But until the deadline (27/8), Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Papua New Guinea and Vietnam had not reported to the organizers of SAAGTC 2012.

"The tournament is not individual, but a team event. In addition to successfully hosting this event, Indonesia is also hoping to become the overall champion. Because the majority of players that appear will also participate in the National Sports Week (PON) in Riau, from 9 to 20 September 2012," he continued.

Meanwhile, the President Director of Emeralda Golf Club, Wahyu Afandi Aaron, guaranteed the club is ready to host the match. Preparations for this event have been ongoing ​​since March.

"Earlier this year in March we successfully held the Indonesia Open. As a fact, there have been no complaints at all of any of the participants. Additionally, next month we will host a junior amateur tournament and the ASEAN Golf Federation Meeting consecutively," he concluded.

For live scoring of this event follow this link.

Emeralda Golf Club To Host SEA Amateur Golf Team Championships

Indonesia will hold again an international level tournament, with PB PGI (Indonesian Golf Association) entrusted to hold the SEA (South East Asia) Amateur Golf Team Championship, comprising of the Putra Cup (Amateur Men), Santi Cup (Amateur Ladies), and Lion City Cup (Junior men).

The tournament will be held at Emeralda Golf Club, Jakarta, from August 28 to 31 and will be attended by the 12 South East Asian countries: Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Hong Kong, Cambodia, Papua New Guinea and Indonesia.

Each country will send a total of 12 athletes, where each team consists of 4 people each for Putra Cup, Santi Cup and Lion City Cup. This year the Putra Cup is held for the 52^nd time, while the Lion City Cup will have its sixth running and the Santi Cup enters its 4^th year.

Rory Hie Finishes Third At Singha E-San Open

Khon Kaen, Thailand, August 19 - Thailand discovered another golfing gem today when Gunn Charoenkul triumphed in the US$65,000 Singha E-San Open.

The little known 20-year-old beat Malaysian Nicholas Fung on the first extra hole at Singha Park Golf Club to claim his first title since turning professional last year.

At the start of the week a host of big name players, part of strong international field, were expected to dominate but in one of the biggest upset victories on the ASEAN PGA Tour Gunn pulled off a shock wire-to-wire win.

A bogey on the 18th, for a one-over-par 73, saw him fall into a play-off with Fung who made par on the last. However, Gunn quickly rose to the challenge when they returned to the last and nailed an 18 foot birdie putt from just off the green for victory.

Fung closed with a 70 to finish tied on 14-under-par 274. Indonesian number one Rory Hie carded a 75 to claim outright third four shots short of the play-off.

Gunn had a two shot lead after each of the first three days and showed maturity beyond his years to prevail over the more experienced Fung and Hie.

A 60 foot birdie putt on 16 proved crucial although Fung putt the pressure on when he chipped in for birdie on 17. “I’m as much relieved as happy. It was a bit of a grind out there, but that might have been just us in the final group. I’m really happy to have won, really happy to have led a tournament all the way for the first time,” said Gunn, who won US$9,450.

His previous best finish on the ASEAN PGA Tour came last year when he ended equal ninth in the Ancora Classic in Indonesia. “Again though I got four shots in front and tried to do too much, even though I said yesterday I wouldn’t. I have to thank my caddie, my uncle, he’s been great all week keeping me calm. I hope he stays on the bag for the next five years.”

The young man from Pattaya manages his golf schedule while also studying marketing at University in Thailand.

Both Fung and Hie were chasing their second titles on the ASEAN PGA Tour but Gunn proved too good in E-San.

Defending champion Udorn Duangdecha from Thailand returned a 71 to tie for fourth five off the lead.

One stroke further back were Thailand’s Prom Meesawat and Thaworn Wiratchant, with rounds of 69 and 70 respectively.

Leading final round scores (Par 72, Thai unless stated):

274 - Gunn Charoenkul 64 67 70 73, Nicholas Fung (MAS) 67 67 70 70 (Gunn won sudden-death play-off on first extra hole)

278 - Rory Hie (INA) 67 66 70 75

279 - Rattanon Wannasrichan 69 67 70 73, Udorn Duangdecha 70 71 67 71

280 - Prom Meesawat 70 71 70 69, Thaworn Wiratchant 70 72 68 70

281 - Piya Swangarunporn 68 70 67 76

282 - Atthaphon Sriboonkaew 69 68 74 71

284 - Wisut Artjanawat 69 68 73 74, Michael Tran (VNM) 68 70 70 76, Sirapong Maitreeyuenyong 69 71 70 74

Rory Hie Still In Second At Singha E-San Open

Khon Kaen, Thailand, August 18 - Unheralded Gunn Charoenkul maintained his grip on the US$65,000 Singha E-San Open today after firing a third round a two-under-par 70 at Singha Park Golf Club.

He leads by two strokes from Indonesian Rory Hie with Malaysia’s Nicholas Fung a stroke further back. Both players also carded 70 in the third event of the year on the ASEAN PGA Tour.

Gunn, aged 20, turned professional last year and is playing the tournament of his life having led the tournament since day one.

Four birdies on the trot starting from the eighth cemented his lead although he dropped shots on 13 and 15 to allow the chasing pack to draw closer.

“I got ahead of myself after those four birdies. I will learn from that and make sure in the final round I don’t make the same mistake. Rory and Nick are far more experienced so it will be a tough battle,” said Gunn.

Gunn leads the tournament on 15-under-par 201 and is looking for his first victory as a professional. He recorded his best finish on the ASEAN PGA Tour last year when he ended equal ninth in the Ancora Classic in Indonesia.

The young man from Pattaya manages his golf schedule while also studying marketing at University in Thailand.

Both Hie and Fung have tasted victory once before on the ASEAN PGA Tour and have come close to winning many times.

Hie carded a steady bogey free round with birdies on three and 11.

The Indonesian claimed the 2008 International Championship on the ASEAN PGA Tour just months after turning professional.

Last year he burst through at the top level by finishing second in both the Indonesia Open presented by Enjoy Jakarta and the Indonesia PGA Championship, both on OneAsia.

Fung was on course to finish the day tied with Gunn but made bogey on 16 and 17.

He is also looking for his second ASEAN PGA win to add to his success in the 2010 Mercedes-Benz Masters Vietnam, which was a Matchplay event.

Defending champion Udorn Duangdecha from Thailand gave himself an outside chance of victory by shooting a best of the day 67 to sit seven off the lead.

Leading third round scores (Par 72, Thai unless stated):

201 - Gunn Charoenkul 64 67 70

203 - Rory Hie (INA) 67 66 70

204 - Nicholas Fung (MAS) 67 67 70

205 - Piya Swangarunporn 68 70 67

206 - Rattanon Wannasrichan 69 67 70

208 - Udorn Duangdecha 70 71 67, Michael Tran (VNM) 68 70 70

210 - Thaworn Wiratchant 70 72 68, Sirapong Maitreeyuenyong 69 71 70, Pijit Petchkasem 66 71 73, Wisut Artjanawat 69 68 73

211 - Prom Meesawat 70 71 70, Thitiphun Chuayprakong 72 66 73, Atthaphon Sriboonkaew 69 68 74

212 - Arnond Vongvanij 70 69 73

Rory Hie Eyes Top Spot At Singha E-San Open

Khon Kaen, Thailand, August 17 - Thailand’s Gunn Charoenkul fired a brilliant back nine of six-under-par 30 to keep the lead after round two of the Singha E-San Open on Friday.

His five-under-par 67 at Singha Park Golf Club gave him a two stroke lead over Indonesia’s top golfer Rory Hie, who carded a 66.

Malaysia’s Nicholas Fung shot a 67 and is a stroke further back, in the third event of the year on the ASEAN PGA Tour.

Gunn is in his second year as a professional and after two impressive rounds he is starting to make a name for himself. He began the day with a two shot lead and is now 13 under for the tournament despite a poor one over par front nine.

Said Gunn: “I didn’t start well today, I had a bogey on the par five third which is like giving up two shots. I steadied things and played a good shot into eight which was the first shot I hit all day. That told me I still had it and then the back nine was really good.”

The young man from Pattaya manages his golf schedule while also studying marketing at University in Thailand.

He eagled the 11th and made four birdies on the homeward stretch.

“I hit a perfect three wood into 11 which went past the hole and I could see it roll back down the hill so it was pretty much a tap in, that really helped. As I said yesterday I’ve been very motivated this week. I really want to win the tournament, that’s my goal. Last week (in the Thailand Open) I missed my first cut this year because I had a fever but now I’m better and I really think I can win.”

Gunn recorded his best finish on the ASEAN PGA Tour last year when he ended equal ninth in the Ancora Classic in Indonesia.

In hot pursuit are two more seasoned campaigners, although like Gunn still in the infancy of their professional careers.

Both Hie and Fung have tasted victory once before on the ASEAN PGA Tour and have come close to winning many times.

Hie carded a bogey free round and birdied the par-five 18th.

“It was a good way to finish. I hit a great putt for birdie having got a good read from Namchok who had similar putt so I am happy to be at 11 under,” said Hie.

Hie claimed the 2008 International Championship on the ASEAN PGA Tour just months after turning professional. Last year he burst through at the top level by finishing second in both the Indonesia Open presented by Enjoy Jakarta and the Indonesia PGA Championship, both on OneAsia.

Hie added: “My game has been very solid for two days so it’s great to be finding some good form again. The course is playing very soft after all the rain. There’s no run on the fairways but the greens are holding. I played here two years ago and it was completely different with the wind from the opposite direction and it was much drier. I’ve put myself in a good position so will have to see what happens at the weekend.”

Fung also signed for a bogey free scorecard and is also looking for his second win on Tour after his success in the 2010 Mercedes-Benz Masters Vietnam, which was a Matchplay event.

Thailand’s leading golfers have some ground to make up over the weekend.

Wisut Artjanawat, joint third in last week’s Thailand Open on OneAsia, came in with a 68 and is six behind Gunn.

Defending champion Udorn Duangdecha and Prom Meesawat both returned 71 and are 10 adrift.

Thaworn Wiratchant, winner of the season-opening Luang Prabang Laos Open, carded a 72 and is two under for the championship which boasts prize money of US$65,000.

The cut was made at even par.

Second round scores (Par 72, Thai unless stated):

131 - Gunn Charoenkul 64 67

133 - Rory Hie (INA) 67 66

134 - Nicholas Fung (MAS) 67 67

136 - Rattanon Wannasrichan 69 67

137 - Atthaphon Sriboonkaew 69 68, Wisut Artjanawat 69 68, Pijit Petchkasem 66 71

138 - Varut Chomchalam 70 68, Thitiphun Chuayprakong 72 66, Piya Swangarunporn 68 70, Michael Tran (VNM) 68 70

New Kuta Golf 5th Anniversary Tournament

To celebrate New Kuta Golf's 5th anniversary there will be a tournament held on 5 and 6 October 2012.

THREE TIMES SHOTGUN STARTS
1st Start: Friday, 5 October 2011 at 1pm
2nd Start: Saturday, 6 October 2011 at 7am
3rd Start: Saturday, 6 October 2011 at 1pm

Tournament Fees

	1st/2nd Start	3rd Start
Member of NKG	Rp. 700,000 net
Member Guest	Rp. 1,350,000 net	Rp. 1,500,000 net
Visitor	Rp. 1,700,000 net
Junior	Rp. 700,000 net

Tournament fees include: green fee, breakfast, lunch buffet, caddy fee, player's insurance, refreshments, Gala dinner, Trophies, Hole in One, Grand Lucky Draw & Grand prizes every session.

Hole in One prizes:
1 Apartment @ Meritus Pecatu
2 Pajero Sport SUV
1 Toyota Yaris
1 Rp 300,000,000 BNI46 Time Deposit
2 Garuda Airlines tickets (Denpasar-Perth-Denpasar & Denpasar-Seoul-Denpasar)

Gala Dinner
Saturday, 6 October 2011 at 6pm

Stay & Play Package
Stay at Le Grande Suites or New Kuta Condotel
1 (one) Night : Rp 2,100,000
2 (two) NIghts : Rp 2,800,000
REGISTRATIONS
Call +62 361 8481 333

Kawasan Pecatu Indah Resort, Jl Raya Uluwatu, Pecatu, Jimbaran, Kuta Selatan, Badung 80361, Bali, Indonesia.
T +62 361 8481 333 F +62 361 8481 400
E reservation@newkutagolf.com
W newkutagolf.com

World Golfers Championship Indonesia

The World Golfers Championship Indonesia Gross Series #1 will be held on Monday 3 & Tuesday 4 September 2012 at Palm Hill Golf Club.

1st Flight tees off 07:00 am.

The 3 winners with lowest gross scores after 36 Holes (2 days) will advance to the WGC Indonesia Final held from 24 to 27 September 2012.

Registration will be closed on Monday 3 Sept.2012 @ 06:30 am.

For more information:
SMS Center: 0815 86 01 02 09
Pin BB: 274FA12A
Email: wgc.indonesia@yahoo.com

Strong Start For Rory Hie At Singha E-San Open

Khon Kaen, Thailand, August 16 - Gunn Charoenkul fired the finest round of his fledgling career to take the clubhouse lead with an eight-under-par 64 in the Singha E-San Open on Thursday.

The young man from Pattaya, who turned professional last year, made four birdies on each nine at Singha Park Golf Club to finish the day ahead of compatriot Pijit Petchkasem, in with a 66.

Malaysia’s Nicholas Fung and Rory Hie from Indonesia lie joint third after returning 67s, in the third event of the season on the ASEAN PGA Tour.

Pre-tournament favourites Wisut Artjanawat and Prom Meesawat from Thailand made solid starts.

Wisut, equal third in last week’s Thailand Open on OneAsia, was one of six players who carded a 69 while Prom signed for a 70.

Rain delays meant a number of players were unable to complete their rounds including Thailand’s Thaworn Wiratchant, who claimed the season-opening Luang Prabang Laos Open, and countryman Udorn Duangdecha, the defending champion.

Said Gunn: “I was disappointed to miss the cut in the Thailand Open last week especially as it is such a big event but I was unwell with a fever. It made me more determined to play well this week.”

The talented golfer manages his golf schedule while also studying marketing at University in Thailand.

“I putted really well today and made some good up and downs. The course is playing a little differently this year as the wind is blowing in a different direction. It is nice to have no bogeys on the card,” added Gunn.

He is a close friend of Panuphol Pittayarat, nicknamed “Coconut”, who he has known since the age of seven.

Gunn recorded his best finish on the ASEAN PGA Tour last year when he ended equal ninth in the Ancora Classic in Indonesia.

Udorn is three under with four to play while Thaworn is one under after 14.

First round scores (Par 72, Thai unless stated)

64 - Gunn Charoenkul

66 - Pijit Petchkasem

67 - Nicholas Fung (MAS), Rory Hie (INA)

68 - Jitti Sritanapol, Supakorn Utaipat, Piya Swangarunporn, Michael Tran (VNM)

69 - Prakaiyut Loundthong, Rattanon Wannasrichan, Prin Sirisommai (a), Wisut Artjanawat, Philip Matsson, Sirapong Maitreeyuenyong

Rory Hie Takes On Thais Again At Singha E-San Open

Khon Kaen, Thailand, August 15 - The Singha E-San Open tees-off tomorrow on the ASEAN PGA Tour teeming with a wealth of Thailand’s top golfers looking to build upon their fine performances in last week’s Thailand Open.

Wisut Artjanawat, who ended joint third on Sunday in the US$1 million OneAsia event, and Udorn Duangdecha, this week’s defending champion and 10th last week, are two players who feel they are on the cusp of victory.

Thaworn Wiratchant and Prom Meesawat tied for 14th and will also fancy their chances at Singha Park Golf Club.

The Singha E-San Open boasts prize money of US$65,000 and is the third event on this year’s ASEAN PGA Tour.

Thaworn claimed the season-opening Luang Prabang Laos Open while Prom triumphed in the Singha Pattaya Open.

Wisut won twice last year on the ASEAN PGA Tour to lift the Order of Merit title and his finish last week was seen as a breakthrough performance in a top tier event.

“My game is coming back and the Thailand Open has given me a lot of confidence,” said Wisut.

He bogeyed the last hole to finish three strokes adrift of winner Englishman Chris Wood.

The cheque he earned for US$53,645 was the largest of his career.

“I have been working very hard on all parts of my game. The most important part I work on is the mental game. I have a coach who helps me with this. I speak to him on the phone a lot and see him once a month. The main thing he teaches me is concentration and much of this comes from Buddhist thinking,” added Wisut.

The 31 year old has won a record four times on the ASEAN PGA Tour and will be one of the favourites this week.

Udorn registered a wire-to-wire victory last year claiming the title by four shots from a group of players that included Prom.

Known for sporting flashy pants Udorn is a course specialist at Singha Park having also won the King’s Cup here in 2010.

Said Udorn: “It is a long course and normally very windy. It is a course I like and it suits my game. There are not many players who can win in the wind so that makes me confident.”

Udorn also won the 2010 Singha Pattaya Open on the ASEAN PGA Tour.

“It was exciting to see so many Thai players in contention at the Thailand Open. It is also good that we have another event in Thailand the week after so we can try and continue our good form,” added Udorn.

Prom will be out to make amends for a disappointing weekend at the Thailand Open.

He led at the halfway mark and was seeking to emulate his father Suthep, who in 1991 became the first of only two Thais to win their national Open championship.

Two level par rounds at the weekend saw him fall away but many expect him to bounce back this week.

“I am pretty sure I am going to win soon maybe in the Singha E-San Open. I am happy the way I am playing. The course in Khon Kaen will be very difficult if it is windy. It is suited for a long hitter…I like that course and hopefully I can do well,” said Prom.

As well as a formidable Thai contingent a strong international line up has entered including Malaysia’s Danny Chia and Nicholas Fung, Rory Hie from Indonesia, and Singaporeans Lam Chih Bing and Choo Tze Huang.

Ria Bintan Open By Nike Golf

Name	: RIA BINTAN OPEN 2012 presented by NIKE GOLF
Venue	: Ria Bintan Golf Club – Ocean Course
Format	: Individual Stroke Play, 36-Hole
Date	: 13 & 14 October 2012 (Saturday & Sunday)

ENTRY FEE: S$385
Fee includes return ferry, 2 days tournament with shared buggy and caddy, tea reception on 12 October, Prize Presentation Buffet Lunch on 14 October, Nike Golf goodie bag.

DIVISION & HANDICAP
· Men Division A: 6 & Below
· Men Division B: 7-12
· Men Division C: 13-20
· Ladies: 28 & Below

ACCOMMODATION (SINGLE/TWIN SHARING BASIS)
· Ria Golf Lodge: S$140 per room per night
· Nirwana Resort Hotel: S$160 per room per night
Prices include breakfast

REGISTRATION
Limited to 150 players.
To register please download Entry Form at www.riabintan.com
Full details can be found at Ria Bintan website.
ENQUIRIES
Ms. Chandra
Tel. +65 6493 3165
Email: chandra@riabintan.co.id

Wood Wins Thailand Open, Hie Ends Back

BANGKOK, August 12 - Englishman Chris Wood scored the first win of his professional career on Sunday with a two-shot victory in a rain-interrupted U.S. $1 million Thailand Open, breaking the hearts of home fans seeking a first Thai champion in eight years.

The 24-year-old European Tour regular - competing in a OneAsia Tour event for the first time - fired rounds of 67, 64, 67 and 67 for a 23-under par total of 265, although preferred lies were allowed because of soggy conditions at the 6,471 meter (7,077 yard) Suwan Golf & Country Club.

Hard-charging Thais Arnond Vongvanij (65) and Wisut Artjanawat (67) battled to catch the strapping 1.96-metre (6 ft 5 inch) Wood, but had to settle for a share of third place with Korean Lee Dong-hwan (67).

Alone in second was Jang Dong-kyu, also of Korea, who completed the first nine holes in just 29 shots en-route to a closing 63 and the best result of his career.

"It is brilliant – I am really, really pleased," Wood said, after what appeared to be a victory march from the 17th was interrupted by a rain delay of over an hour.

"It is hard winning. I always felt that once I got one win it would give me the confidence to go on and win more, so hopefully I can take this confidence back to the remainder of the tournaments I have got for the season."

At four under, the cut was the lowest in OneAsia's history - reflecting the strength of a field that was also bolstered by the presence of 20 Japan Tour players as part of a growing relationship between the circuits.

OneAsia has provided two maiden victories this year, after Australian Nick Cullen won the Enjoy Jakarta Indonesia Open.

Thailand Open defending champion Andre Stolz of Australia, who went on the win the OneAsia Order of Merit title last year, finished at eleven under after closing with a 67, his best round of the week.

Indonesia's Rory Hie, who with rounds of 71-68-67 was just 8 shots behind the leader after round 3, slipped back on the last day. Even though he had 3 birdies, with 3 bogeys and 2 double bogeys his round of 76 meant he dropped to a joint 65 position with a total score of 282.

The day belonged to Wood, however, who plans a break with his family to celebrate the win.

"I am going home for a week, a bit of rest, share it with my family and then onto Gleneagles in Scotland for a tournament," he said.

Leading score:

265 - Chris Wood 67-64-67-67 (ENG)

267 - Dong-kyu Jang 68-69-67-63 (KOR)

268 - Arnond Vongvanij (THA) 67-67-69-65, Wisur Artjanawat (THA) 66-64-71-67, Dong-hwan Lee (KOR) 67-67-67-67

270 - Mark Brown 70-65-70-65

271 - Yasunori Yoshida (JAP) 64-72-70-65

Selected scores:

282 - Rory Hie (INA) 71-68-67-76

14th Hotel Kristal Charity Golf Tournament

On November 9th 2012, Hotel Kristal will host their 14th Hotel Kristal Charity Golf Tournament at Jagorawi Golf Course, which over the past 13 years has successfully raised over US$800,000 (9 billion Rupiahs) for local charities, which they have supported for many years.

Last year was an enormous success raising over US$ 125,000 (1,125 billion Rupiahs) and this year they are hoping to exceed this with your full support for them, and the local community.

The charities supported last year were:

• HOGS (www.yayasanhogindonesia.org)
• Kampung Kids (www.kampungkids.org)
• Family Care (www.fcindo.com)
• Rotary Club Jakarta Cilandak (www.rotaryclubjakartacilandak.com)
• Mary Cancer Kiddies (www.marycancerkiddies.org)
• Chesire Homes (www.wismacheshire.html)
• Yayasan Damai Olahraga Bali (Sports for underprivileged children in Bali)
• And other individual cases which they personally deem worthwhile supporting

They will continue to support Charity Organizations ensuring that the money is well spent and always fully transparent.

The format as always is a 6-Man Texas Scramble tournament and there will be a Calcutta Auction of the Scramble Teams held in Satu Lagi Bar at Hotel Kristal on Wednesday 7th November at 7pm.

Companies that want to sponsor this event are advised to contact Hotel Kristal as soon as possible.

They also ask for your assistance in acquiring any ‘sports memorabilia’ or other items that can be sold in the Auction at the Gala Dinner, to raise additional funds.

The tournament day starts with registration, goodie bags and a Pin High golf shirt, followed by a full American Breakfast and Bloody Mary’s before heading to the tee boxes for a shotgun start where you will find drink holes (fully stocked bars), hot dogs (courtesy of Hot Hed), and plenty prizes to be won on Hole in Ones, Nearest the Pins, Longest Drives and other Novelty Holes.

It's then back to the Clubhouse for a full evening of Entertainment, with an International Buffet Dinner including a Japanese Sushi Bar (Sakura Japanese Restaurant), Live Acoustic Band, Fashion Show, Dancers, Lucky Draws, Memorabilia Auction, Prize Giving and of course drinks throughout the evening.

A point which must emphasized is that on no account any sponsorship or registration fees is used for the Golf Tournament. The Hotel Kristal pays for everything in the Tournament including the golf fees, carts, food, drinks and entertainment. All money raised is given to the Charities for the young children who are in much need of assistance.

Contact information:
Hotel Kristal
Jl. Tarogong Raya
Jakarta Selatan
Tel : (62-21) 7507050

Fitria – Executive Secretary
Email : hotelkristalgolf@gmail.com

Texas Scramble With A Twist For Juniors At Bali Handara

Round #2 in the series of 18 Hole Golf Competitions organized by the Bali Junior Golf Community (BJGC) will be held on Sunday 26 August 2012 on their 'home course' Bali Handara Golf Resort. This round will be a Texas scramble format with two twists.

Twist 1
teams will be formed on a lucky draw system by organizer

Twist 2
each player in the team's drive must be used at least 4 times

Junior Boys Division
A (14 - 17)
B (13 & under)
Boys A off white tees
Boys B off red tees

Junior Girls Division
A (14 - 17)
B (13 & under)
Girls A & B off red tees

Note: Players can choose to "play up" on (tee box only but remain in their age division)" subject to approval by organizer

Cost per junior player
Rp 325.000 BJGC members (valid card must be presented)
Rp 425.000 junior non-members

Inclusive: 1 rounds/18 holes green fees, trolley, caddie fee, prize for winner of each division ( Boys A, B and Girls A&B)

Excludes: caddie tips & lunch

Players also earn points which will enable you to qualify for our club championship tournaments.
Players must also play a minimum 3 of the fortnightly fun format tournaments to qualify for the championship tournaments.

Lunch
15% discount off menu at the golf cafe for lunch after the competition for juniors and parents.

How to register
online @ http://www.balijuniorgolf.com/tournament/schedule/

Payment
Can be made on the day in cash only to the BJGC hospitality desk located downstairs outside the golf cafe.

Free Juniors Clinic
beginners welcome
7.45am - 8.45am
Driving Range /Short Game Practice Area

Rory Hie Facing Tough Challenge At Thailand Open

BANGKOK, August 8 - A niggling elbow injury may force home favourite Prayad Marksaeng to withdraw from the U.S. $1 million Thailand Open on OneAsia starting Thursday, but an army of talented Thai players is standing by to try and thwart yet another foreign invader.

No Thai has lifted the King's Trophy since 2004 when Boonchu Ruangkit won the second of his two titles, 12 years after claiming his first, and the only other national to triumph was Suthep Meesawat in 1991.

Since it was first held in 1965, the Thailand Open has largely rewarded a series of foreign raiders, and an excellent OneAsia field from across the Asia-Pacific -- as well as representation from the European and Japanese Tours -- could see the trend continue at Suwan Golf & Country Club.

The absence of Prayad -- runner up in the event last year to Australian Andre Stolz -- would make the task a touch easier.

"This tournament means so much to all Thai players … I really want to play," Prayad said on Wednesday, his right elbow strapped with a liniment plaster.

"But I am not in perfect condition. It really started hurting in the Pro-Am (Tuesday) and today I decided not to hit any balls at all."

Prayad, 46, who has three Japan Tour and six Asian Tour titles to his name, continues to belie his age with first-rate displays and has enjoyed a string of top-10 finishes this season.

He will make a final decision on playing before Thursday's scheduled first round, but having to skip the chance to win a trophy most Thai professionals revere will be a tough one.

It is not just any tournament," Prayad said. "This trophy was given by the King, so it is something special to Thai golfers. It is more than a physical achievement to win this, it is a spiritual thing as well."v Prom Meesawat, meanwhile, known locally as the "Big Dolphin" because of his cherubic build, has more than royal favour to play for as it was his father, Suthep, who first won in 1991.

"I have seen the (replica) trophy at home a lot and so I know all about it," said Prom. "Growing up with the Thailand Open means it is even more special to me."

Veteran Boonchu, will bid for an unlikely hat-trick of titles at the age of 56 while a host of young pretenders such as Thanyakon Khrongpha, Namchok Tantipokhakul, Chinnarat Phadungsil, Wisut Artjanawat and Pariya Junhasavandikul will also be flying the Thai flag.

The evergreen Thaworn Wiratchant said because of the royal association it was difficult to explain why it was so hard to win the Thailand Open.

"For a Thai you have to deserve to win the trophy," he said. "It is more than playing well ... you have to have a pure heart as well."

It is a concept many foreigners find hard to grasp, and three contenders from Europe said they felt the Thai players should be feeding off the pressure instead of letting it get to them.

"It should be a good pressure," said Paul McGinley, the Ryder Cup star leading a strong European Tour challenge during something of a lull in their regular season.

"Look at the British Team at the Olympics -- they are doing the best they've ever done and that's because they are at home."

"I think we saw a similar situation at the Irish Open. It was around 30 years before we got an Irish winner, and then we had two or three in a row … these things come and go."

Irishman McGinley is joined by Englishmen David Howell, Chris Wood, David Horsey and Richard Finch from the European Tour.

"Sooner or later one of the Thais will get through," Howell said.

"Its Asian golf in general," said Wood, "but we are seeing more and more talented Thai players and it is only a matter of time."

Defending champion Stolz, who went on to win the OneAsia Order of Merit last year, is likely to find the course to his liking again this year while China’s Liang Wenchong, who lifted the Thailand Open trophy in 2010 on his way to winning the Merit title, will lead a formidable challenge from the mainland that includes emerging stars Hu Mu, Wu Ashun and Zhang Xinjun.

Australian Scott Strange, the Merit champion in 2009 and two-time winner on the European Tour, will also bid for honours along with his young compatriot Nick Cullen.

Left-hander Cullen claimed this year’s season-opening Enjoy Jakarta Indonesia Open and is currently second on the OneAsia Order of Merit.

Korea will also feature strong representation with a wealth of stars including Kim Dae-hyun, Park Sang-hyun, Han Chang-won and Kim Meen-whee.

OneAsia also made 20 spots available to members of the Japan Golf Tour Organisation, and these have been filled by a quality line-up including five-time Japanese tour winner Kenichi Kuboya.

Additionally Malaysians Danny Chia and Nicholas Fung, Indonesia’s Rory Hie and Choo Tze-huang from Singapore add to the exciting mix of talent from the region who will compete for the famous King’s Trophy, donated by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Clement Kurniawan To Play Canadian Amateur Championship

Top male amateur golfers from Canada, Korea, Australia, Colombia, New Zealand, Peru, Indonesia and the United States will vie for national supremacy at the 108th Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship.

The championship will be contested Aug. 7-10 at two Ontario courses: Camelot Golf and Country Club in Cumberland and Club de golf Outaouais in Rockland.

The winner of Canada’s oldest national golf championship earns exemptions into the 2013 RBC Canadian Open at the historic Glen Abbey Golf Club as well as the 2012 U.S. Amateur Championship at Cherry Hills Country Club in Cherry Hills Village, Colo. Additionally, the winner is eligible to receive exemptions into the U.S. Amateur Public Links, U.S. Junior Amateur, U.S. Mid-Amateur and USGA Senior Amateur Championship, if applicable.

The 240-player field is led by defending champion and Team Canada National Squad member Mackenzie Hughes of Dundas. He posted a four-day tally of 10-under par 274 at Niakwa Country Club and Elmhurst Golf and Country Club in Winnipeg to claim the 2011 Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship title.

This year’s championship will also feature over 30 international players vying for the historic Earl Grey Trophy, including James White of Acworth, Ga., who was a co-winner of the 2012 Byron Nelson Award as a top senior player in collegiate golf in the United States. White, a product of Georgia Tech, is currently ranked No. 73 in the WAGR, and competed internationally for the United States in the 2012 Palmer Cup.

Indonesia's Clement Kurniawan, just two weeks ago winner of the Furman University Championship, will try to follow this up by showing a good result here as well.

The Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship is open to male amateur golfers who are members of a club belonging to Golf Canada, or clubs in other countries which are in good standing with their respective golf association.

After the first two rounds, the field will be reduced to the low 70 players and ties for the remaining two rounds finishing Friday, August 10 at Camelot Golf and Country Club.

Hie Hopes To End Drought At Thailand Open

BANGKOK, August 2 - Indonesia's Rory Hie hopes a change of irons and a hot new putter will steer him to his first victory on OneAsia at the U.S. $1 million Thailand Open next week.

The 24-year-old is in cracking form at the moment, having secured a spot in one of Japan's most prestigious tournaments by winning the three-event Road to the Panasonic Open mini-series in his home country last month, but is still seeking a win on the Asia-Pacific's fastest growing tour.

Currently eighth on the Order of Merit with earnings of $46,370.61 from four tournaments, Hie has had two top ten finishes and two missed cuts, but his form over the past couple of years suggests he is due for a big win.

"My game has been coming together nicely," Hie said.

"I am currently working on dialing-in my irons, and hopefully I'll get it done by the Thailand Open."

Before turning pro Hie was rated one of the top ten amateurs in the world and studied at the University of Southern California the United States where he majored in Social Studies and Communications.

He has come a long way from Kalimantan, where as a five-year-old he accompanied his father, Tommy, to a run-down driving range.

"I didn't like it at first because I couldn't get the ball in the air but I was amazed at how far my dad was hitting it -- at least at the time," Hie said.

Like most Indonesian youngsters, Hie's first love was football and he played in the street with all the neighbourhood kids -- with golf on the back-burner.

"But then I re-started when I was 10 because of Tiger Woods' win at the '97 Masters."

Now the tables have turned and Hie's father regularly accompanies his son on tour -- sometimes caddying for him "if the course isn't too hilly".

Second place in the Indonesia Open last year remains Hie's best finish on OneAsia, but new equipment could see him go one better at Suwan Golf & Country Club next week.

"I am absolutely satisfied especially with my new TaylorMade R11S driver which I started using at the Indonesian open," he said.

"In addition I've put in the new ATV wedges which help tremendously out of the rough. I have also put in a new Spider Ghost putter from TaylorMade this month and a new TPMB iron set."

At home in Jakarta, Hie prefers to spend time on the range and saves his game for tournaments.

"I don't have a home course as such, just a home range," he said.

"I always practice at Royale Jakarta or Emeralda, but rarely play them. I like to play on courses that I've never played so I can spread it around."

As the best golfer Indonesia has ever produced, Hie also has one eye set on Brazil in 2016 when golf makes a return to the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

"Of course I would like to play Olympics," he said. "Right now I am not familiar with the criteria, but it would be nice to have something to shoot for".

Until then he is taking his golf one round at a time.

"It's all just a learning process, and I am enjoying playing golf more than ever."

Next week's U.S. $1 million Thailand Open has attracted one of the largest and strongest fields in its history following overwhelming interest in the marquee OneAsia event.

A total of 168 players will compete in the 43rd staging of the country’s national Open, which features Singha as the premier sponsor.

Defending champion and 2011 Order of Merit winner Andre Stolz of Australia, China's Liang Wenchong, who completed the Thailand Open and OneAsia Order of Merit double in 2010, and OneAsia winners Nick Cullen, Scott Strange, Kim Felton, Michael Hendry, Kim Dae-hyun and Thaworn Wiratchant spearhead the Asia/Pacific challenge.

Ireland's Paul McGinley and Englishmen David Howell (joint fourth in the French Open recently), David Horsey and Richard Finch, who are all multiple winners on the European Tour, also feature in the impressive field.

Five-time Japanese Tour winner Kenichi Kuboya heads a strong contingent from the circuit which has strengthened its ties with OneAsia this season.

The Thailand Open first became part of OneAsia in 2010 and is the fifth leg of the 2012 season.

Brunei Welcomes Indonesia's Minister of Tourism

In the run-up to the Asia Pacific Golf Summit that will be held from 11-13 December 2012 in Brunei, the attendance of Indonesia's Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy is already making headlines in their local papers:

The Brunei Times, 1 August 2012

The online version can be viewed here at: Special guest to tee off address

Media Permata, 1 August 2012

The online version can be viewed here at: Menteri Indonesia penyampai khas APGS 2012

BruDirect.com, 1 August 2012

This online only version can be viewed here at: Indonesia Tourism Minister To Speak At APGS Summit

Rory Hie Amidst Strong Field In Thailand Open

BANGKOK, August 1 - Next week's U.S. $1 million Thailand Open has attracted one of the largest and strongest fields in its history following overwhelming interest in the marquee OneAsia event.

A total of 168 players will compete in the 43rd staging of the country’s national Open, which features Singha as the premier sponsor.

The prestigious tournament will be played for the second successive year at Suwan Golf & Country Club from August 9-12.

Last month a host of marquee names were announced including Thailand’s Thaworn Wiratchant, Prayad Marksaeng, Kiradech Aphibarnrat and Prom Meesawat and defending champion Andre Stolz from Australia.

European Tour stars Paul McGinley from Ireland, and Englishmen Chris Wood, David Howell, David Horsey and Richard Finch were also confirmed.

The field has now been finalised and the tournament clearly boasts a strength in depth that makes it one of the premier events of the season.

China’s Liang Wenchong, who lifted the Thailand Open trophy in 2010 on his way to winning the OneAsia Order of Merit title, will lead a formidable challenge from the mainland that includes emerging stars Hu Mu, Wu Ashun and Zhang Xinjun.

Veteran Boonchu Ruangkit, Thailand’s golfing idol who was victorious in the Thailand Open in 1992 and 2004, will bid for a hat-trick of titles at the age of 56 while a host of young pretenders have entered such as Thanyakon Khrongpha, Namchok Tantipokhakul, Chinnarat Phadungsil, Wisut Artjanawat and Pariya Junhasavandikul.

A total of 32 places were granted to players under the local exemption category -- including 10 of the country’s top amateurs.

Thailand’s Chawalit Plaphol and Chapchai Nirat, winners of numerous titles in the region, are also amongst the entrants who will attempt to bank the U.S. $180,000 winner's cheque.

Australian Scott Strange, the OneAsia Order of Merit champion in 2009 and two-time winner on the European Tour, will also bid for honours along with his young compatriot Nick Cullen.

Lefthander Cullen claimed this year’s Enjoy Jakarta Indonesia Open, the season-opening event on OneAsia, and is currently second on the OneAsia Order of Merit.

Golfing powerhouse Korea will also feature strong representation with a wealth of stars of the future having entered including Kim Dae-hyun, Park Sang-hyun, Han Chang-won and Kim Meen-whee.

Kim Dae-hyun, claimed the GS Caltex Maekyung Open in Korea on OneAsia in 2010, while Park is presently third on the OneAsia Order of Merit after finishing fourth and second in the previous two tournaments.

Han triumphed in the OneAsia Qualifying School by six strokes in 2011 and also tasted victory in the 2009 Asian Amateur Championship.

Kim Meen-whee is another player from the Land of Morning Calm to look out for as he claimed the gold medal in the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou.

OneAsia also made 20 spots available to members of the Japan Golf Tour Organisation, and these have been filled by a quality line-up including five-time Japanese tour winner Kenichi Kuboya.

Indonesia’s only entrant Rory Hie will try to improve on last year's performance at this tournament, where he missed the cut. So far 2012 hasn't been as successful as 2011 for him, so a good result here may boost his confidence for the remainder of the season.

Additionally Malaysians Danny Chia and Nicholas Fung and Choo Tze-huang from Singapore add to the exciting mix of talent from the region who will compete for the famous King’s Trophy, donated by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

The Thailand Open first became part of OneAsia in 2010 and is the fifth leg of the 2012 season.