MACAU, September 26, 2014 (HK Golfer News Wire) - The 16th edition of the Venetian Macau Open will tee-off at the Macau Golf and Country Club from October 23-26 with a record prize fund of US$900,000.
The Venetian Macau Open is jointly organised by Macau Sport Development Board (MSDB) of Macau SAR Government and Golf Association of Macau. It is sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the Golf Association of Macau, and promoted by IMG. The Venetian Macao is the title sponsor of the event for a third consecutive year.
The 36-year-old Liang hopes to join Zhang as a champion in Macau after making history in June when he became the first Chinese golfer to play in all four Major Championships when he teed off at the US Open at Pinehurst.
With a recent runner-up finish in Japan, the Zhongshan native is feeling upbeat. “I am looking forward to competing at the Venetian Macau Open again,” said Liang. “I performed well at last year’s tournament and I am a big fan of the course. With star players like Ernie Els, Miguel Angel Jimenez, Thongchai Jaidee and Scott Hend confirmed for the event, I am sure the competition will be tough, but I will do my best.”
Zhang, meanwhile, has played in all but one edition of the tournament since its inauguration in 1998. He missed the event in 2003 because of injury. With five Asian Tour victories to his name, Zhang the only player to win consecutive titles in Macau, claiming victory in 2001 and 2002. He hopes to add to that tally this year.
"Every year, I am excited to play at the Venetian Macau Open where I have been able to play well over the years. My back-to-back victories there are important in my professional career. Since it started, the tournament has grown and attracted players from all over the world. This year we’ve got a great field so it’s going to be a tough tournament.”
Last year, Zhang invited Yang Zihao, winner of the 2013 Zhang Lian-wei Youth Cup to play at the Venetian Macau Open. Jiang Zhijie, the 16-year-old winner of this year’s Youth Cup, will join Zhang in Macau, a wonderful opportunity for him to develop his skills and confidence in preparation to join the professional ranks.
The Venetian Macau Open has been championed as a leading opportunity for young players to showcase their talents as well as being an effective platform for promoting golf in China.
Jose Tavares, President of the MSDB, said: “Mr Zhang’s support for the next generation players is exemplary, making this Venetian Macau Open a premier sports event for our city.”