China’s most successful golfer Zhang Lian-Wei and its latest hero Liang Wen-Chong will be spearheading the Chinese challenge at this month’s 2007 BMW Asian Open from April 19 to 22 at Tomson Shanghai Pudong Golf Club.

Zhang, whose best finish at the BMW Asian Open was joint fifth in 2004, is confident that Chinese players will shine at this year’s BMW Asian Open, despite the strongest star players’ field ever assembled.

Zhang was the first Chinese golfer and only the fifth Asian to win a European title in 2003 when he beat then-world number two Ernie Els at the final hole of the Singapore Masters. After his heroic effort, he went on to become the first Chinese player to play in the US Masters at Augusta the following year. Last year, Zhang, now 41 years old, proved he is still one of China’s leading golfers by topping the China Tour Order of Merit.

Based on current form, however, Zhang’s good friend and protégé Liang Wen-Chong has taken over the mantle as China’s number one. The 28-year-old Liang won his maiden co-sanctioned title at the Singapore Masters last month and is currently second on the Asian Tour Order of Merit.

Over the past few months, Liang has proven himself to be one of Asia’s rising stars. At last September’s Singapore Open, Liang was the best Asian finisher in fourth and this January, he was again Asia’s best finisher at the Qatar Masters finishing joint ninth with two-time Asian Tour Order of Merit winner Thongchai Jaidee.

While local fans will be cheering on their heroes Zhang Lian-Wei and Liang Wen-chong, other Chinese players who are hoping to make headlines are amateurs Ye Jian Feng and US-based Hu Mu.

Last year, both teenagers make their debut at the 2006 BMW Asian Open and 16-year-old Hu Mu missed the cut by just three strokes after shooting a second-round 73.Ye, meantime, made headlines last year, when he became the youngest amateur to debut in a European Tour event at the tender age of 14 years old.

In addition to proven winners like Zhang Lian-Wei and Liang Wen-Chong, the Chinese Golf Association has also named Li Chao, Huang Ming-jie, Yuan Hao, Qi Zheng-fa, Liao Gui-Ming, Wu Wei-huang, Shang Lei, Gao Lei, Gu Shu-tao, Deng Wen-gen, Zheng Shao-guang, Huang Yong-huan, Qiu Zhi-feng and Xiao Zhi-jin for the BMW Asian Open 2007.

10.04.2007

Retief Goosen is looking to put aside the disappointment of finishing joint runner-up at the year’s first Major by winning on his BMW Asian Open debut from April 19-22 at Tomson Pudong Golf Club.

Last Friday, the South African’s charge from behind fell short as he finished two shots behind winner Zach Johnson, settling for joint second with Tiger Woods and Rory Sabbatini. But his exploits at the US Masters meant he now has two seconds and two thirds on the notoriously difficult Augusta. For the upcoming BMW Asian Open at Tomson however, Goosen will certainly be hoping to end his run of runner-up finishes.

At the BMW International in Munich last September, The Swede’s win kept the South African winless in BMW-sponsored events. Despite this, Goosen, the current world number eight and winner of 14 European Tour events during an illustrious career, said he had always enjoyed playing in BMW events.

Known for being one of the most consistent players in the world, Goosen, 38, has won internationally every year since 1995. His calm demeanour and reputation as a steely competitor has earned him the nickname “The Iceman” on the US PGA Tour and he reached a career-high world number three last year. Besides his two US Open wins in 2001 and 2004, Goosen also topped the European Tour Order of Merit money-list in 2001 and 2002.

Affectionately known as “The Goose” by his fans, Goosen is currently ranked second on the European Order of Merit and he looks forward to returning to mainland China once again.

Goosen however will need more than fan support to win the BMW Asian Open 2007 as he is part of the strongest ever field assembled at Tomson Pudong Golf Club from April 19 to 22.

Besides his good friend and compatriot Ernie Els, Goosen will also face the likes of big-hitting American John Daly, 8-time European number one Colin Montgomerie, currently number three on the European Order of Merit Paul Casey and also the likes of local heroes Zhang Lian-Wei and Liang Wen Chong.

Europeans have won every edition of the BMW Asian Open except for 2005 when South African Ernie Els stormed to a 13-stroke victory.

13.04.2007

The 2007 BMW Asian Open in Shanghai might see its first ever Asian winner this month at the Tomson Pudong Golf Club, despite the strongest international field ever assembled.

From April 19-22, Asia’s finest golfers will battling hard to beat some of the biggest names in golf like South African giants Ernie Els and Retief Goosen, big hitting American John Daly, 8-time European number one Colin Montgomerie and Ryder Cup hero Paul Casey.

Jointly sanctioned by the European and Asian Tour, the USD $2.3 million BMW Asian Open 2007 had seen European winners for four of the five editions. The closest that an Asian player came to winning the BMW Asian Open was in 2001 when two-time Asian number one Thongchai Jaidee finished one stroke behind Sandelin to claim second and also in 2002 when India’s Jyoti Randhawa fell short by one stroke, taking runner-up behind Harrington.

For 2007, local fans will be certainly be relishing the thought of Chinese heroes like Liang Wen-Chong and Zhang Lian-Wei becoming the first Chinese player to win an European Tour title on home soil.

Zhang, China’s most celebrated golfer with four Asian Tour titles, has already proven that he can match the very best players in the world by beating then world-number two Ernie Els in 2003 to win the Singapore Masters. Last month, Liang joined Zhang as the only Chinese to win a European title at the same tournament.

Besides China, India’s top golfers could also spring a surprise at the BMW Asian Open 2007.Like India’s number two Jyoti Randhawa and rising talent Shiv Kapur. Thailand meantime has several talented hopefuls who are capable of winning the BMW Asian Open， Like Thongchai Jaidee, Thaworn Wiratchant and Veteran Prayad Marksaeng.

Other Asian Tour players aiming for Shanghai glory include Simon Dyson of England who finished runner-up at the 2004 BMW Asian Open, veteran Frankie Minoza of Philippines and current Asian Order of Merit leader Anton Haig.

The BMW Asian Open 2007 is tri-sanctioned by the China Golf Association, PGA European Tour and the Asian Tours.

14.04.2007

The opening festivities of the BMW Asian Open 2007 kicked off this afternoon with the top talents from Europe, Asia and South Africa gathered at the new Fairway Club located at the finishing hole at Tomson Shanghai Pudong Golf Club.

Joining 2-time US Open champion Retief Goosen, 2006 European Player of the Year Paul Casey, 8-time European Tour Order of Merit winner Colin Montgomerie and defending champion Gonzalo Fernandez-Castaño at the new Fairway Club situated at the 18th hole - were China's most celebrated golfer Zhang Lian-Wei and current Chinese number one Liang Wen-Chong.

After an exciting ceremony to unveil the new BMW X5, the six players joined 2004 BMW Asian Open winner Miguel Angel Jiménez and Denmark's number one Thomas Björn in a special 9-hole Pro-Am for media and guests.

With the BMW Asian Open purse increased to US$2.3 million this year, the BMW Asian Open 2007 has attracted top talents from the European Tour, including Danish ace Thomas Bjorn who has nine European Tour titles including 2 BMW International Open victories, Spanish star Miguel Angel Jiménez who has 13 European Tour wins and English star Paul Casey who won in Abu Dhabi in January for his eighth European Tour title.

The Asian Tour stars confirmed include former Asian Order of Merit winners Thongchai Jaidee and Thaworn Wiratchant of Thailand, Indian ace Shiv Kapur, Philippines legend Frankie Minoza and rising South African star Anton Haig, the current leader on the UBS Asian Tour Order of Merit.

Besides the record prize money of US$2.3million, a brand new BMW X5, which will be introduced to the Chinese market later in the week, awaits the first person who scores a hole-in-one at the 216-yard Hole 14.

More fun is expected tomorrow when the BMW Asian Open Pro-Am tees off with a strong turn out of celebrities and local dignitaries. Among the celebrities scheduled to appear are Hong-Kong based actor-director Michael Wong. In addition, there will also be a spectacular preview show from trick golfer Noel Hunt, known as the 'Jack Nicklaus of Trick Golfers' and a demonstration of the BMW X3 ramp.

The star-studded BMW Asian Open 2007 tees off Thursday morning, April 19.

17.04.2007

Partnering with Simon Dyson in BMW Asian Open Pro-Am Tournament, Michael Wong said that all his efforts were worthwhile.

Michael started to learn golf 17 years ago in 1990 and his current HP is 8, with an average score of 80 strokes during practice. He used to play twice every week and now plays less for he has to take care of his families. In last month, he played only once; but even so, he is still one of the best golfers among Hong Kong actors and actresses.

Michael Wong arrived late last night at Tomson Shanghai Pudong Golf Club for BMW Asian Open Pro-Am Tournament and started at five this morning, for the tournament started at seven thirty. But all the efforts were worthwhile, for his partner was Simon Dyson, the runner-up of BMW Asian Open 2004. The young British player won two European Tour games: Indonesia Open and Dutch Open. During the tournament, Michael has observed carefully and learned earnestly from him; but when it was Simon’s turn to look at Michael, he was greatly surprised.

Michael Wong performed well for the first few holes and achieved even par. Simon Dyson was surprised and asked about his handicap. Michael said: “I feel like a zero-handicap player and a real pro.” But he soon showed his real level; there was a bogey and then a double bogey. His final score was 85 strokes.

Before leaving for Shanghai, Michael spent several days practicing. He frequented the training course and went to Hong Kong Fanling Golf Club several times. He has a professional coach in Hong Kong and would always ask for his professional advices. In fact, the difficult championship course at Tomson Shanghai Pudong Golf Club also served as one of the major obstacles preventing Michael Wong from getting a better score.

The play of 18 holes was enough for Michael to appreciate the exquisite skills of Simon Dyson and he believed Simon was a competitive player for champion this time. Moreover, he also supported Paul Casey and Ernie Els.

Michael Wong is famous for playing the part of policeman; handsome looks and righteous temperament make him an ideal policeman extensively accepted among audience. His fit body is the result of his love for sports. Apart from golf, he also spends a lot of time in gym center. Michael Wong is versatile and manages to direct and sing besides acting.

18.04.2007

World number five Ernie Els rolled into Shanghai for the BMW Asian Open on Wednesday with happy memories of his record-breaking triumph here two years ago.

The South African star headlines an elite field in the US$2.3 million event which tees off tomorrow and while he may be jetlagged, Els knows his form is good enough to claim a first title of the year after finishing second in the Verizon Heritage on the US Tour which concluded only on Monday.

It was Els' third top-three finish of 2007 but it is a 59th international victory that the "Big Easy" will be chasing at the Tomson Shanghai Pudong Golf Club, site of his famous 13-shot victory in the 2005 BMW Asian Open.

"I had a good time back then. I played well that week and made a lot of putts. It was a very enjoyable week. I couldn't make it last year so I'm glad to be back this year. I'm looking forward to it," said Els today.

With a Monday finish in America, Els could only arrive in Shanghai this afternoon after dropping his family off in London before taking another long haul to the Far East. He wasn't perturbed by the fact that he will not have a chance to play a practice round, especially when he had accumulated a terrific 26-under-par 262 winning total two years ago which included a second round 62.

"Obviously, we've not seen the course but I'm sure it will be in good shape. It was a long flight but we're just thankful that we're here. It was a crazy week, finishing on Monday and we're here now. I've played the course before, so it'll be fine. I had a chance last week and I feel my game is very good," said Els, pipped by one stroke by American Boo Weekly who chipped in for par on the last two holes for the triumph.

Joining Els in this week's BMW event jointly sanctioned by the Asian Tour and European Tour include compatriots Retief Goosen and Anton Haig, currently leading the Asian Tour's UBS Order of Merit, American "Grip it and Rip it" star John Daly and European Ryder Cup heroes Paul Casey and Colin Montgomerie.

18.04.2007

Raphael Jacquelin tops the leaderboard after round one inShanghai.

France’s Raphael Jacquelin leads the field on day one the BMW Asian Open 2007 with an opening round of 66 (6 under par). Sören Kjeldsen from Denmark is one shot behind in second place.

Kjeldsen’s three-putt on 18 secured it: Jacquelin finished round one of the BMW Asian Open 2007 as the outright leader. Third place is currently shared by Gregory Havret, Saung-man Lee and Gavin Flint (all -4), Colin Montgomerie (Scotland, -3) is tied with six others in sixth, Miguel Angel Jiménez (-2), winner of the BMW Asian Open 2004, is in 12th place after day one. South African Major winners Retief Goosen and Ernie Els both carded 71 (-1). Along with 13 other pros, they are back in joint 18th in the rankings.

"I’m doing pretty well at the moment," said Jacquelin, whose only previous European Tour title came at the Open de Madrid in 2005." |The way I hit the ball and the way I made a few putts were pretty good today. The winds were getting stronger later in the day and I'm happy to shoot six under."

Jacquelin and Kjeldsen were tied after 14, both having carded six birdies. But on the final hole, Kjeldsen’s approach shot dropped a touch shot – leaving a tricky lie in front of a hill. That was the critical moment: Kjeldsen’s first putt lack legs, moved off target and finished about six metres from the hole. With that went his chance for par and round of 66.

Goosen enjoyed a strong start. The South African was 2-under par after nine, but had trouble with the greens on the back and slipped down the field. Els, the World No. 5, hit two three-putts in succession on the final holes – round one could have gone better for the “Big Easy”. One of the absolute crowd favourites had a nightmare round however: John Daly carded 79 (+7) and currently sits in joint 142nd place.

19.04.2007

Rafael Jaquelin continues to dominate the competition on the second round.

Rafael Jacquelin continues to remain the man to beat at the BMW Asian Open 2007: The Frenchman (135 strokes, 9 under Par) dominated the contestants on the second day of the tournament, which features a prize money of 2.3 million US dollars, and is three strokes ahead of second placed South Korean Sung-man Lee.

Following a fantastic round of 66 on the first day at the Tomson Shanghai Pudong Golf Club, Jacquelin required 69 strokes on Friday to complete his second round. Five birdies on the last twelve holes allowed him to keep his distance to the rest of the field.

Following Jacquelin and Lee, five players share third place: Australian Scott Hend, eight time Order-of-Merit winner of the European Tour, Colin Montgomerie, Sören Kjeldsen, in second place after the first round, 2004 BMW Asian Open winner Miguel Angel Jiménez and Swedish player Joakim Backström (all -5). Particularly Montgomerie was able to give proof of his class on the second round when he played an eagle on the 15 by following up a 250 meter drive with a precise 5 meter putt.

Jiménez also proved once more that he feels comfortable at BMW tournaments: The Spanish golfer, successful at the BMW International Open 2004, made his way through the ranks with a round of 69 and improved by nine positions. Ernie Els, on the other hand, continued to experience problems: The South African 2005 winner played yet another 71 round and is now listed on joint 18th position with a total score of -2.

"We were lucky this afternoon and the wind died on the back nine," Jaquelin said following his round. "I am really confident with how I am hitting the ball. I have improved my putting the last few weeks and I am just trying to make the strokes and the swing as for the practice round. And the birdies are coming."

It is not the first time that Jaquelin is able to impress at a BMW tournament. In 2001, he managed to play a hole-in-one on hole 17 of the BMW International Open. At the time, the Frenchman was able to secure a dream car with this dream hit: a BMW Z8, which BMW had provided as a special prize.

20.04.2007

Frenchman Raphael Jacquelin stayed firmly on track for victory at the US$2.3 million BMW Asian Open where he will take a slim one-shot lead into Sunday's final round.

Jacquelin, bidding for a second career title, battled to a two-under-par 70 at the Tomson Shanghai Pudong Golf Club on Saturday for a three-day total of 11-under-par 205. He held off a spirited Scott Hend of Australia, who stayed in the title hunt with a fine 67.

Scotsman Simon Yates brilliantly equalled the course record of 64 to lie only two back going into the last day, tied with Sweden's Joakim Backstrom and Soren Kjeldsen of Denmark.

South African star Ernie Els fired his week's best of 68 to give himself a shot at winning a second BMW Asian Open title and is five behind Jacquelin. Asia's best player was Korea's Lee Sung, who carded a 71 for a share of ninth place on 209, only four back.

"I have got half a chance now," said Els, a three-time Major winner. "I am just glad I made a few putts on the back nine as I have not holed anything all week. If it rains the greens will be softer and you can be really aggressive with your second shots but the par fives will be unreachable in two, so your putter has to be hot."


Big-hitting Hend, currently fourth on the Asian Tour's UBS Order of Merit after two runner-up finishes this season, continues his rehabilitation from a serious hand injury by staying within sight of Jacquelin's rear mirror. He fired seven birdies against two dropped shots and made a huge par save from 15 feet at the last hole to keep the lead down to one. "It felt like 100 feet!" said Scott of the last putt. "It was probably 15 feet or something like that. It felt a long way."

Lee, who played in the last pairing with Jacquelin, showed signs of nerves as he shot only one birdie for the day. "I played averagely. My heart was pumping today. I hope to be calm tomorrow. I won't think about the gap at the top," said the deaf-born Lee, who communicates through lip reading with his father, Kang-kun.

21.04.2007

France’s Raphael Jacquelin completed a dominant start-to-finish victory at the star-studded BMW Asian Open on Sunday, lifting the title by two strokes after a wet and wild final round. Jacquelin, who held the lead from the first day, fired a one-over-par 73 to complete the US$2.3 million tournament on 10-under-par 278 with Dane Soren Kjeldsen settling for runner-up place at Tomson Shanghai Pudong Golf Club after also a 73.

Scott Hend of Australia and Scotsman Simon Yates, both regulars on the Asian Tour, finished equal third while Korea's Lee Sung was tied fifth alongside world number five Ernie Els and Richard Sterne, both from South Africa, and last week's winner Markus Brier of Austria on 282.

"It is a fantastic moment. It is difficult to take the lead in the first round and keep it to the last. It was more difficult the last four or five holes. When you are in a position to win it is always difficult to finish but to be a winner you have to finish. I am really happy. It is my second win so it is not a surprise any more," said a beaming Jacquelin, who pocketed US$383,330.

Taking a one-shot lead into the last day, where tee times were brought forward due to the inclement weather forecast, Jacquelin seized full advantage of the calmer conditions earlier on by streaking into a four-shot lead with an outward 33. The weather turned in the morning, with gusting winds and a heavy downpour greeting the players and sending scores spiralling but Jacquelin was able to comfortably protect his lead despite coming home with four bogeys.

Hend, who enjoyed his second straight top-three to signal his full recovery from a serious hand injury, lamented a double bogey at the treacherous par three 14th.

Over the past four days, a record 15,000 spectators attended the BMW Asian Open at Tomson. Besides exciting golf action, fans also enjoyed the BMW xDrive demonstration featuring the newly launched BMW X5, a trick golf show featuring Noel Hunt, the UBS Game Improvement Zone, the Emirates Spectator Charity Hole-in-One challenge, BMW Car Display and many other great concessions at the spectacular Public Village.

22.04.2007