Happenings

UBS Hong Kong Open

Golf fans throughout Asia are in for a treat as the prestigious UBS Hong Kong Open returns for its 2017 edition, bigger and better than ever. With another marquee field featuring top players from across the world, organisers expect large crowds for this year's championship, and hope to beat last year's record of over 46,000 spectators.

One of the oldest tournaments in Asia, the UBS Hong Kong Open, which is tri-sanctioned by the European Tour, the Asian Tour and the Hong Kong Golf Association, will be held again at the Hong Kong Golf Club, Fanling from November 23-26. This year, the event takes on added significance as it will kick - off the 2018 European Tour Race to Dubai.

Master's Champion Sergio Garcia, fresh from his recent win on home soil in Spain, will headline a sterling field of pros from Europe and Asia, along with 2015 winner Justin Rose, Rafa Cabrero Bello, Tommy Fleetwood, and 2016 Champion Sam Brazel. And, if the past is any indication, another drama filled competition should be in the works. For example, who could forget the pulsating action during the 2011 Open when a very young Rory McIlroy holed out a bunker shot at the 18th hole to win the tournament?

The UBS Hong Kong Open has had its share of illustrious champions both before and after it became part of the European Tour International Schedule in 2001. Past winners include legends Peter Thomson, Greg Norman, Tom Watson, Bernhard Langer, and past and present stars Colin Montgomerie, José María Olazábal, Ian Woosnam, Padraig Harrington, Miguel Angel Jiménez, and Justin Rose.

Not only will fans have the opportunity to visit the historic Fanling Golf Course, there will also be a wealth of activities for the whole family to enjoy. November is one of the most beautiful times of year in Hong Kong with great weather expected for the tournament, so what better opportunity to enjoy the lush green surroundings of the Hong Kong Golf Club at a tournament that offers much more than world class golf. Entry is free again this year on Thursday and Friday of the tournament. Go to www.ubshkopen.com for more details, and ticketflap.com to reserve your tickets.

Be sure to mark your calendar and come watch all the thrilling action at the 2017 UBS Hong Kong Open.

(Edited on 7 Nov 2017)