I think everyone who was up at Fanling or watching on television will agree with me when I say that the 2011 UBS Hong Kong Open was one of the most exciting in the tournament's 53-year history.
Played in wonderful weather, over a course that was beautifully presented, the Open once again lived up to its reputation for producing drama thanks to Rory McIlroy's amazing finish. Rory, who headlined one of the strongest fields we've ever witnessed at the Hong Kong Golf Club, has come close on previous occasions – not least in 2008 when he narrowly lost out to Lin Wen-tang in a thrilling sudden-death play-off. To see him capture the trophy in such heroic fashion was fantastic to watch – and a truly fitting end to UBS' tenure as the title sponsor of the Hong Kong Open.
Since taking over the mantle in 2005, UBS has been a magnificent sponsor throughout its seven year association with Hong Kong's oldest professional sporting event. Raising the tournament prize fund from US$800,000 to the US$2.75 million that the players were competing for last month is a testament to their support and commitment to golf in Hong Kong. UBS' involvement has undoubtedly raised the tournament's profile around the world significantly. On top of the financial support they gave the event, one of their final ‘gifts’ to the event was a sponsor's invitation to Jason Hak, a junior member of our national squad. This was a fantastic gesture by UBS. Competing against such high quality players, Jason not only made the cut but won the Sir David Trench Cup for finishing as the leading amateur. Congratulations to Jason on another stellar performance.
On behalf of the Hong Kong Golf Association and all the golfers in Hong Kong I would like to sincerely thank UBS for their involvement over the years. They have been a fantastic partner.
The event was also unique as it was the first year that we had the support of the Hong Kong Government through the generosity of the Mega Events Fund. This support was critical in helping attract a number of star names and also in supporting a programme of initiatives to promote both the tournament and Hong Kong as a prime tourist destination. The success of this kind of support and the continued cooperation this brings between the Hong Kong Open and the Government will help to enable us to continue to grow the event and to keep its position as one of the premier events in the region.
Last, but by no means least, a massive thank you to everyone who helped make the championship such a great event for the spectators; from the fabulous staff at the Hong Kong Golf Club, the teams from the European and Asian Tours, the HKGA staff and to all the wonderful volunteers who ensure that the spectators get to see and partake in such a wonderful experience. It really wouldn't be the same without all of their hard work and fantastic effort.
Wishing everyone a happy year of golfing in 2012.
– David Hui
President
HKGA
