Chinese property developer Shui On Land has become the title sponsor of the first ever China Golf Challenge.
The made for TV contest pits top golfers Rory McIlroy, Ian Poulter, Ernie Els and Chinese star Liang Wen-chong against one another in a seven-day, seven-city challenge. The award winning developers have ongoing projects in several of the cities in which the tour will stop.
Chairman of Shui On Land, Vincent Lo, said: “We hope to promote golf in China through title sponsorship of the China Golf Challenge. As the tournament travels north, south, east and west around the country, we hope to show viewers around the world the golfing experience in modern China as well as the dynamism of the Chinese cities. Golf emphasises creativity, discipline as well as honesty under pressure, which matches our core values at Shui On Land – integrity, dedication, innovation and excellence.”
“Golfers and Shui On Land both pursue a high-quality lifestyle and an emphasis on precision. The Shui On Land China Golf Challenge will make for spectacular viewing as the golfers’ travels and competition offer a window into both the history and modern growth of China. Likewise, Shui On Land’s projects across cities in China also innovatively present the traditional and modern look of China, as well as a unique F&B, shopping, leisure and entertainment experience to travellers inside and outside China,” he added.
US Open champion Rory McIlroy said: “I’m always keen for a challenge, but this is different to any golf tournament I’ve competed in. For me, this will be as much about exploring China as competing, and I’ve got some good travel companions in Ian, Ernie and Liang. Hopefully Liang can give us some local tips on the best food. It’s a frenetic schedule as we’re flying six times in the middle five days. The only days we’re not on a plane are the first and last days, but don’t forget that we have to fly in and out of China before and after the event, so this will be a serious test of endurance!”
Raymond Roessel, managing director of tournament organiser, Infinite Ideas International, commented: “This is a first for golf and a first for China. We’ve got four of the world’s most popular golfers, yet the seven cities, eight golf courses and China itself are also going to be the stars of the show. The Shui On Land China Golf Challenge will combine world class golf with travel, tourism, business and great entertainment. It’s going to hard work, but a lot of fun.”
The event, which begins on 10th October, will be broadcast on Golfing World and distributed by IMG Media.
Shui on land – China golf challenge
