Expectations are high that the 2018 Foshan Open will be one of the most thrilling in its history.
Now in its sixth year, the event has already thrilled the thousands of fans who, each year, gather at Foshan Golf Club’s famous final green to watch the many dramatic moments as players attempt its tricky final day pin position.
This year the drama at the Foshan Open is expected to increase further as players vie for one of the 15 places on the European Tour.
“The Foshan Open has been one of the players’ favourite events over the years,” said Alain de Soultrait, Director, European Challenge Tour.
“It’s been very encouraging to see the big crowds of spectators who flock to the course to follow the ‘stars of the future’.
“With more pressure than ever on players looking to secure a top 15 spot on the European Tour, spectators will definitely be in for a most thrilling Foshan Open.”
While the tournament has grown a reputation as one of the biggest sporting events in the area, the Foshan Open is not just about players and their performances.
Over the years, event organisers have introduced a series of innovative activities not normally associated with pro golf events to broaden its appeal and generate an interest in the community and the environment.
In the run up to each Foshan Open, a great deal of time and effort is devoted to showcasing the environmental developments undertaken throughout the venue and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle.
The event has also concentrated on reaching out to those who are less fortunate in the local community by introducing them to golf and by making donations to local charities.
While the venue itself has already been awarded a certificate by the Golf Environment Organisation (GEO) based in the United Kingdom, the plan is now to get the Foshan Open event itself certified as meeting the stringent environmental criteria of the GEO.
The run up to this year’s Foshan Open has also got off to an exciting start with the very welcome arrival of Julian Small as General Manager of Foshan Golf Club.
He comes with considerable top class experience having been CEO at the world famous Wentworth Club from 1996 to 2015, which is host venue to the BMW PGA Championship.
From 2015 he was the Managing Director at Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai, host venue of the DP World Tour Championship. Both events are regarded as two of the biggest on the European Tour.
“I’m delighted to join the team at Foshan Golf Club,” he said. “And bring my international knowledge and experience in club management and organising professional golf tournaments to China.”
