D'Souza Driven by Faldo-Like Determination

While Hong Kong boasts a rich golfing history - the UBS Hong Kong Open, for example, is one of the oldest and most respected in the Asian professional game - the SAR has long lagged behind its regional rivals in terms of producing world-beating talent. That, however, is starting to change. Tiffany Chan Tsz-ching has led the way on the women's side - the 22-year-old from Tuen Mun, a former World University champion, is currently ranked inside the top-15 of the amateur rankings and has flourished in her first season representing the University of California, the number one college team in the United States. D'Souza hopes to make a similar impact for the men.

"There have been plenty of positives for Hong Kong golf over the past few years," says D'Souza, a product of the Hong Kong Golf Association's junior development programme. "The exposure and opportunities for young golfers here are a lot greater than they were in the past. Talent is being developed earlier - before there would be 15-year-olds who were just starting out. Now there are 15-year-olds who have already reached a very decent level. The roles the HKGA and the Hong Kong Golf Club play in providing access and coaching have helped tremendously. Golf in Hong Kong is in a very good place."

D'Souza's short-term goal is to play college golf in the United States after completing his secondary school education next summer, something that is a near certainty given his recent on-course exploits, which includes contending with Asian Tour regulars Scott Barr and Unho Park at January's Ageas HKPGA Championship, where he finished in a share of fourth.