Hassall Humbled by Support of APGC Member Countries

Beijing, China: Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation (APGC) Chairman Philip Hassall has praised China golf officials and host venue Bayhood No. 9 for their roles in the successful staging of the 31st Nomura Cup.

Speaking in the wake of Hong Kong, China’s historic triumph in the Asia-Pacific Men’ Amateur Team Championship, Hassall said: “The APGC is extremely grateful to have had such fabulous support from the China Golf Association (CGA), the Beijing Golf Association (BGA) and the wonderful Bayhood No. 9 Golf Club.

“The staff from all three organisations did an amazing job. They worked hard and really went out of their way to extend wonderful hospitality. And the presentation and set up of the golf course was exceptionally good.

“For the event to come to China for just the second time in its 63-year history has been very special and our appreciation goes to all those who made it possible.

“All the players had a wonderful time. They experienced the friendship and camaraderie that have always been a hallmark of the Nomura Cup, the longest-running tournament in the APGC’s portfolio. 

“An important part at all APGC championships is to learn a little bit about the culture within the country that we’re visiting and to experience the friendship and goodwill among our member countries, which is an extremely diverse and geographically wide area, from right up in the Middle East to right down south to countries like New Zealand.”

During the week in the Chinese capital city, Hassall, along with Vice Chairman General Abdulla Al Hashmi, APGC Board members and General Manager Nick Shan, held fruitful discussions with representatives from member countries with a view to future events.

Hassall said: “Nick Shan joined us in April as our first General Manager. We’re trying to build on the success of our previous events and with Nick on board we now have a stronger administrative arm.

“It’s been encouraging that so many countries have indicated they want to contribute, want to help, and want to host APGC tournaments. At the Nomura Cup it was quite humbling to have so many countries approach Nick and myself about wanting to be involved with the APGC in some form in the future.”

Hassall said the latest edition of the Nomura Cup helped to strengthen bonds between the APGC and the CGA. He said: “We’re excited that the China Golf Association wants to do a lot more with the APGC in the future. We look forward to seeing golf continue to prosper and grow in the country.”