The memory of Keith Hardman, former General Manager of Foshan Golf Club, has today been honoured by the planting of a Podocarpus tree, an evergreen traditional Chinese plant.
Mr Hardman played a pivotal role in founding the Foshan Open in 2013 and went on to turn the Chinese event into one of the most prestigious on the European Challenge Tour.
He suddenly passed away last year at the age of 59 and now Foshan Golf Club, its partners, the Challenge Tour and the China Tour have come together to leave a lasting tribute to the American.
The tree was recently planted next to the putting green at Foshan Golf Club and was officially unveiled today, prior to the start of the 2018 Pro-Am.
The Podocarpus is an evergreen tree featuring beautifully shaped leaves and grows over a long period.
In traditional Chinese culture it is a symbol of longevity, wealth and good luck. Ancient Chinese officials liked to have a Podocarpus in their courtyard, seeing it as a protector of their high social status.
In Buddhism, people believe it can dispel evil spirit and the Podocarpus can be found in many ancient temles as they were planted by monks during wartime to pray for peace.
In modern times, people like to plant a tree in their gardens in the hope it can bring health, wealth and good luck to the house.
Challenge Tour Director Alain de Soultrait, who paid tribute to Mr Hardman with an emotional speech at the unveiling, said: “Keith was the heart and soul of the Foshan Open beyond that was a brilliant person and was a great friend to all of us at the Challenge Tour.
“He continually brought new ideas to the Foshan Open and this helped make the tournament one of the biggest on the Challenge Tour – he may be gone, but his legacy lives on through this tournament.
“As Keith would say: love life, love golf.”
