Source: South China Morning Post

Terrence Ng and Michael Regan Wong will join the star-studded cast at golf’s LINK Hong Kong Open after claiming the two places up for grabs at this week’s qualifying tournament.

With local hero and Asian Games teammate Taichi Kho carrying his bag, Ng shot a nerveless final-round six-under-par 64 on the Hong Kong Golf Club’s New Course, coming from six shots off the pace to seal a two-stroke victory with a six-under 134 on Friday.

“It’s great to get back into the Hong Kong Open, after not playing very well last year,” Ng said. “It was definitely revenge for me today and hopefully I can play well this time.

“Taichi was a massive help. He helped me read a lot of putts. Obviously, he’s a great player and we just had a great time. We’re very good friends and he helped keep me relaxed.”

Kho last year became the city’s first winner of an Asian Tour event when he triumphed at the World City Championship at the same venue. He is among the leading names to have already signed on for the 63rd staging of the Open, Hong Kong’s longest-running professional event.

The Hongkongers will be joined by the likes of England’s Justin Rose, who won the tournament in 2015, rising South Korean Tom Kim and reigning champion Ben Campbell of New Zealand.

As for Kho’s turn as a caddie, the man himself said: “I’m proud of [Ng]. He played great. I really didn’t have to do much, but it was great to see.”

Hong Kong Golf Club-based trainee PGA professional Wong holed a 12-footer on the final hole for a four-under 136 (64-72) that saw him finish second, good enough to join Ng at the Fanling showpiece from November 21 to 24.

It was the second time in two weeks that Wong had played his way into an Asian Tour event after he took out the Macau Open qualifying tournament last week.

“A big relief and probably the biggest fist pump I’ve ever had [when his putt went in],” said Wong, who last qualified for the Open after winning the Hong Kong Open Amateur in 2014.

“Just having fun has been the key to playing well, solidly over the past few weeks. If I have fun, I’m sure I can play pretty well.”

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Dominique Boulet, regarded as “The Voice of Asian Golf,” will be giving his dulcet tones a rest for two days as he takes another crack at playing a tournament where he famously placed fourth in 1996 – the best-ever finish at the Open by a Hong Kong golfer.

He will be joined by Hong Kong Golf Club pro Brian O’Donovan, who memorably made the cut at last year’s Open with tremendous home support, leaving not a single a dry eye on the course.

Also representing the Club in its 135th anniversary is trainee pro Michael Regan Wong, who qualified for the Macao Open last week.

Joining them this week will be a handful of rising stars, including amateurs Anthony Fang, Andrew Chan and Michael Yuen – fresh from his second consecutive Hong Kong Junior Open Championship.

“The Qualifying Tournament presents a great opportunity for young players, and some who have been around awhile, to be a part of this historic tournament and to play alongside some of the greats of the game,” said Andy Kwok, captain of the Hong Kong Golf Club.

Local hero Taichi Kho is among those who has already signed up for the Link-sponsored showpiece, scheduled for November 21-24 at the Hong Kong Golf Club. He will be joined by British star Justin Rose, who won here in 2015, rising South Korean sensation Tom Kim and reigning champion Ben Campbell of New Zealand.

Source: https://www.thestandard.com.hk/section-news/section/8/266653/Chance-for-city’s-golfers-to-secure-Hong-Kong-Open-places

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As golf continues to grow in popularity across Asia, one name that has recently emerged from the vibrant golfing scene in Hong Kong is Taichi Kho. Born and raised in this bustling city, Kho is quickly becoming a prominent figure in the world of golf, showcasing immense talent and determination on both local and international stages.

Early Life and Background

Taichi Kho was born on March 23, 2001, and grew up in Hong Kong, where he was introduced to golf at a young age. His passion for the sport was nurtured by the city’s rich golfing culture, which includes a variety of prestigious clubs and competitions. Kho’s dedication to honing his skills became evident early on, as he participated in local tournaments and quickly made a name for himself among his peers.

Amateur Success

Before turning professional, Kho enjoyed a successful amateur career. He represented Hong Kong in various international competitions, where he consistently performed well against formidable opponents. His achievements included multiple titles at the Hong Kong Golf Club and impressive showings in regional tournaments. These accomplishments not only showcased his talent but also laid the groundwork for his transition into professional golf.

Turning Professional

In 2021, Taichi Kho made the significant decision to turn professional, a move that many anticipated given his exceptional skills and competitive spirit. Since then, he has competed in various tours, including the Asian Tour and the PGA Tour Series-China. His ability to handle pressure and deliver outstanding performances has garnered attention from both fans and sponsors alike.

Style of Play

Kho is known for his powerful swing, precision putting, and strategic approach to the game. His technical skills, combined with a calm demeanor on the course, allow him to navigate challenging situations effectively. These attributes have not only contributed to his success but also make him a thrilling player to watch.

Impact on Hong Kong Golf

As a local talent, Taichi Kho’s rise in professional golf has had a positive impact on the golfing community in Hong Kong. He serves as an inspiration for young golfers, proving that with dedication and hard work, success is attainable. Kho’s journey highlights the potential of Hong Kong as a breeding ground for golfing talent, encouraging the next generation to pursue their dreams in the sport.

Looking Ahead

With a promising career ahead, Taichi Kho continues to train rigorously and participate in tournaments around the world. Golf fans in Hong Kong and beyond are eager to see how he will evolve as a player and what milestones he will achieve in the coming years. As he represents Hong Kong on the global stage, Kho’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and the spirit of competition.

Conclusion

Taichi Kho is more than just a golfer; he embodies the aspirations of many young athletes in Hong Kong. His commitment to excellence and his achievements thus far signal a bright future not only for him but also for the sport of golf in the region. As he continues to climb the ranks, Kho remains a source of pride for Hong Kong and a symbol of the potential that lies within its golfing community.

Keep an eye on this rising star as he makes waves in the world of golf!

The post Taichi Kho: Rising Star in Hong Kong Golf appeared first on Golf in Hong Kong.

Mark Smith stands out as one of Hong Kong’s premier golf coaches, boasting over 23 years of experience in nurturing talent and fostering a love for the game. With a blend of traditional coaching methods and cutting-edge technology, Mark has transformed countless aspiring golfers into champions, including Hong Kong National Players, Junior National Players, and Tour Professionals.

A Journey of Excellence

Originally hailing from Australia, Mark began his coaching career by honing his skills at the State and National Player levels. His journey took him to London, where he served as a coach at the prestigious Regents Park Golf & Tennis School. Since moving to Hong Kong, Mark has held esteemed positions, including Director of Instruction at the Whiterock Golf Academy and Lead Instructor at GolfZon-GreenLive. He is now a Co-Founder of Optimus Golf Performance located at 5C, Victoria Centre, 15 Watson Road, Causeway Bay.

Philosophy and Approach

Mark’s coaching philosophy is rooted in a holistic approach. He believes in customizing training programs that cater to each golfer’s unique strengths and goals. His commitment to excellence is evident in his use of advanced tools such as SportsBox 3D Swing Analysis and Smart2Move 3D Force Plates, ensuring that every student receives tailored feedback for optimal performance.

Achievements and Accolades

Mark’s effectiveness as a coach is reflected in his students’ successes. He has guided players to victories in numerous tournaments, from junior competitions to professional events. His impressive list of accolades includes multiple championships at Clearwater Bay Golf & Country Club and significant placements in international contests like the US KIDS World Championship.

Coaching Offerings

At his coaching facilities, Mark provides a range of programs, tailored to the individual. His team includes a Master Club Fitter and Strength & Conditioning Coaches who can work side-by-side to deliver the most impactful results for the student.

Conclusion

Mark Smith is not just a coach; he is a mentor dedicated to unlocking the potential of golfers across Hong Kong. His passion for the sport, combined with his extensive experience and innovative techniques, makes him a key figure in the local golfing community. Whether you are a beginner or an elite player, Mark’s guidance is an invaluable asset on your golfing journey.

The post Mark Smith: A Golfing Maestro in Hong Kong appeared first on Golf in Hong Kong.

1. Tell us how you started your golf business…
I started golf coaching in 1989 and have had a registered business in one way or another since then

2. Tell us about your golf game?
I started playing in 1985, and turned pro through the Australian PGA in 1989. I have always been known as a strong ball striker but always struggled with my putter. These days I seldom play

3. Best and worst thing to happen to you on the golf course?
One of the most interesting things to happen, I was playing a golf tournament, I was -5 under coming around the 13th hole which was a dog leg left with out of bounds left and right side of the fairway, I decided to hit a driver over the dog leg, which I hit perfectly, the ball landed in the middle of the fairway and hit the concrete 100yd marker, bounced high in the air and through the fairway out of bounds. Hit such a great shot with the worst possible result

4. Best and worst foursome? (What 3 other players would be in your dream foursome and what 3 players would be in your nightmare foursome).
3 of my buddies, always happy to spend some time with the friends

5. If you could hang out with just one PGA or LPGA Tour player for a day, it’d be…? And what do you do/where do you take them in Hong Kong if golf is not an option?!
Tiger Woods – straight down to the local for a number of cold ones and a stern talking to

6. If you could play just one golf course for the rest of your life, it’d be…
Alpine Country Club in Bangkok, Thailand.

7. Favourite golf hole in Hong Kong?
Clearwater Bay 3rd hole, Jeez that hole is a beast, it just has so many variations based on weather and the tee location

8. People should visit your golf business because…
We offer a wide range of golf tuition and packages. The coaches at the Golf School also study golf swing biomechanics. We do corporate events and presentations on golf swing biomechanics. We also strive to educate the world where human movement is studied and documented for golf swing educational purposes.

9. Tell us anything else about yourself and your business that you want people to know.
– We are running kids Sunday golf programs and there are a few places left in the 2pm class
– We are also running a junior short game camp and there are also a few places left
– I am running an on going promotion at South China Athletic Association in Causeway Bay, Lesson price is $1,000 per hour instead of $1,200 per hour and half hour lessons are available

You can contact Vaughan Mason via The Hong Kong Golf School or here:

PH:(852) 95077277
WEB:www.thegolfschool.hk
F.B:www.facebook.com/thegolfschoolofhongkongltd

Vaughan Mason is one of Hong Kong’s most popular golf instructors and any player serious about improving their game should give Vaughan Mason the chance to make them great!

The post Legends of Hong Kong Golf: Vaughan Mason appeared first on Golf in Hong Kong.

1. Tell us how you started your golf business…
I have always been fortunate to work in a business which I love. Previously it was the music business, but after I picked up golf, and realized that the music business was no longer a career option, I decided to work in the golf business. I saw that there were many products in the market that I wanted as a golfer, so the best thing I could think of was to start a company selling the great golf products that I could not get anywhere else- and that were also suitable for the Hong Kong & China golfers.

2. Tell us about your golf game?
I started playing since the year 2000. I went to the San Diego Golf Academy in 2001 to gain some golf business knowledge and started as an 18 handicap. That’s when I met my business partner, Edmond Wu. 18 months later I graduated with honors and a 6 handicap which got me the most improved golfer award for my class. I was able to get down to a 3 handicap a couple years later but then got stuck back as a 6 for many years. But after not playing or practicing the last couple years, I’m probably a 10 handicap on a good day now. I’m looking to get back into practicing more and getting my handicap down again. It’s just a matter of being able to play and practice as you quickly lose that little edge of being able to save that extra shot here and there.

3. Best and worst thing to happen to you on the golf course?
Best was a double eagle on the first hole of KSC North with a driver and then six iron. It was from the white tees in a tournament, so absolutely verified. The tournament director saw it go in. The worst?… I can’t think of any. I’m always happy to be playing golf and cherish every opportunity.

4. Best and worst foursome? (What 3 other players would be in your dream foursome and what 3 players would be in your nightmare foursome).
Best would be Ben Hogan, Tiger Woods and Seve Ballesteros. That’s a very mixed bag! The worst is anyone who complains about anything… I don’t care who they are. Golf is difficult as it is, just go find it and hit it again!

5. If you could hang out with just one PGA or LPGA Tour player for a day, it’d be…? And what do you do/where do you take them in Hong Kong if golf is not an option?!
That’s a hard one to call. It’s difficult to really know what these players are like in ‘real life’ so even though they seem like interesting people on TV (or not interesting people), they may be totally opposite when you have to spend time with them all day. But I’d definitely take them to eat locally as it’s the best way to experience the culture and people of Hong Kong. A great meal beats sightseeing any day.

6. If you could play just one golf course for the rest of your life, it’d be…
Somewhere with no houses around. Bandon Dunes and many of the courses I’ve played in Ireland come close. I’m sure there’s many more like that elsewhere in Scotland and around the world which I hope to still visit and play. My list is still long. It’s really the natural environment and not the fact it is famous or not. It’s just me and nature… and that’s enough for me to enjoy with my golf buddies.

7. Favorite golf hole in Hong Kong?
Besides my Double Eagle being special, the first hole of KSC North course has always captivated me as I love the view and layout from the tee box.

8. People should visit your golf business because…
We actually use the products we sell. We’re golfers too and appreciate the things that really are not a waste of money, and there are a lot of those in golf.

9. Tell us anything else about yourself and your business that you want people to know.
I feel to be successful you need to do things that you enjoy and for the enjoyment and benefit of others. Everything my partner, Edmond, and I have done has followed that philosophy. Sometimes we can’t carry some items we like as they’re really too hard to sell, but we’ve made exceptions in the past if it was a good product we believed in. We have seen how many companies just carry ‘line items’ out of their catalog but really don’t know what they have or that they actually believe the product is good. Maybe that’s why were still around and many others are not.

The golf market in HK has dropped the last few years and we’ve expanded to online sales at www.SportsLifeAsia.com to fill in some gaps where golfers can’t find what they want as the stores are not carrying very much selection. It’s a shame as there are many very good golf shops in HK with very good and experienced staff who know what they are doing. We want them to be successful and urge HK golfers to please visit them. Especially with custom fitting, it’s the best thing you can do for your game regardless of your handicap. And buy good golf stuff!

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Of course, you can make your own Hong Kong Golf Society without being affiliated with the Hong Kong Golf Assocation. The advantages of having a Hong Kong Golf society that is affiliated with the HKGA is they do the handicapping for you if you want. As mentioned, there are currently over 100 Hong Kong golf societies affiliated with the Hong Kong Golf Association. Many of these golf societies run regular tournaments for their golf society members at various courses in Hong Kong, China and even around Asia. In terms of what Hong Kong golf society is right for you, well you’ll need to contact the individual golf society yourself as each has their own joining requirements and membership rules, as well as their own special missions.

When considering joining a Hong Kong golf society, you’ll need to ask them what days they usually play as many of the golf societies in Hong Kong play midweek, which may not be suitable for you if you have to work. Duh. Also, quite a few of the golf societies in Hong Kong are not that active and may not actually have regulargames for you to play. Of the Hong Kong golf societies we know, the WAGS (Wednesday Afternoon Golf Society) has quite a popular following especially amongst expat golfers in Hong Kong. They also do a bit of travel throughout the year and are in general a good bunch of guys despite thier poor taste in event clothing!

If you’re having trouble contacting any of these golf societies in Hong Kong, it may mean they are no longer active. Try sending us an email and we may be able to help out as we know many of the golf societies personally and may be able to give you the right contact person.

For more information about any Hong Kong Golf Society, please contact Golf in Hong Kong.

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