Manila, April 10: Hu Mu, tipped to be China’s great hope in golf, is determined to shine again on a familiar course at the inaugural US$300,000 Solaire Open which starts on Thursday.
Hu enters the full-field Asian Tour event with soaring confidence after finishing fourth at the Chiangmai Golf Classic two weeks ago for his best ever career finish so far.
His result in Chiangmai moved him up to 27th place on the Asian Tour Order of Merit and he is hoping to swell his earnings of US$39,187 with another fine showing at the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club.
“I feel good coming back to this course. I’m familiar with the course since I played here last year. Staying in the same hotel, playing on the same golf course, it’s really nice coming back to play here,” said Hu, who finished tied 33rd at Wack Wack last year.
“The course is really difficult. It seems to be catered for golfers who can drive the ball really well. Having played in a couple of Asian Tour events this year, I’ve learnt to take my time when I’m out on the course,” he added.
He missed out on an Asian Tour card at Qualifying School earlier this year but is slowly making progress and taking advantage of his limited appearances on the region’s premier Tour, which is celebrating its milestone 10th season.
“I’ve learnt to take one step at a time, play hole by hole and not be too impatient. I hope to finish in top 10 for this week. I’ll try my best this week. You have to have a good strategy in order to play well on this course. It’s a very tricky and challenging course.
“You have to start the ball well and try to hit as many greens as possible. Hitting the greens on this course is not easy and probably the toughest I’ve seen so far. You just have to try and not make so many mistakes,” added the 23-year-old.
Ends.
About Solaire Resort and Casino
Solaire Resort and Casino is the first to open in the highly anticipated Entertainment City project along the Philippine’s famed Manila Bay.
The first phase includes approximately 500 luxuriously appointed rooms, suites and bayside villas as well as resort-style pool facilities, bars and entertainment lounges. In addition, there is a state-of-the-art ballroom and meeting space, and a fully equipped spa and fitness center.
The resort also features a world-class dining experience at our signature, casual and quick serve restaurants. The new dining avenues are headed by world-renowned chefs and showcase a comprehensive selection of authentic local and international flavors to cater to even the most discerning palate.
And to give you the ultimate Las Vegas gaming experience, Solaire’s expansive 18,500 square-meter casino area stretches two levels of gaming space, including premium VIP salons and an outdoor themed casino and entertainment bar – all loaded with the most popular slot machines and table games, such as Baccarat, Blackjack, Pontoon and many more!
About the Solaire Open
The Solaire Open is a new event on the 2013 Asian Tour Schedule. It is title sponsored by the Solaire Resort and Casino and supported by DOT (Department of Tourism), Hyundai, the Official Mobility, Pru Life UK, the Official Insurer, Nescafé Dolce Gusto, the Official Coffee and Omega, the Official Timekeeper. The suppliers for the event include Holiday Inn Manila Galleria, the Official Hotel, Johnnie Walker, the Official Whiskey, Asahi Super Dry, the Official Beer, Srixon, the Official Ball, Panasonic, the Official Television Provider, Canon, the Office Solutions Provider and PepsiCo, the Official Water and Sports Drinks.
About the Asian Tour
In 2013, the Asian Tour will celebrate a momentous milestone with its 10th season. As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Abacus (Official Apparel Partner), BlackBerry (Official Communications Partner), Inetol Headwear (Official Headwear Supplier), Singha Beer (Official Beer), Srixon (Official Ball), Starwood Hotels and Resorts (Official Hotels and Resorts) and Rolex (Official Timekeeper). The Asian Tour has offices in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Also, visit us at www.dev-asian.ocs-software.com, www.facebook.com/asiantourgolf, www.twitter.com/asiantourgolf, www.youtube.com/theasiantour and www.weibo.com/asiantourgolf

Johor Bahru, Malaysia, April 10: Malaysia’s Nicholas Fung fired a six-under-par 66 to grab the joint first round lead with Wolmer Murillo of Venezuela in the PGM-Maybank Johor Masters on Wednesday.
The 22-year-old local hope shot seven birdies against a lone bogey on his last hole at the Johor Country Club to put himself in position to win a first title on the Asian Development Tour, which is the feeder circuit to the established Asian Tour.
Newcomer Murillo also enjoyed a strong start as he carded eight birdies against two drop shots to share first day honours with Fung, who had finished runner-up in the previous ADT event in Malaysia.
American James Bowen, who is leading the ADT Order of Merit, and Malaysian veteran Rashid Ismail are tied for third following rounds of 67 while Chinese Taipei’s Hsieh Tung-shu and England’s Grant Jackson are a further shot back in the RM200,000 (approximately US$65,000) tournament which is co-sanctioned with the Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) Tour.
Fung, who earned his Asian Tour card from Qualifying School in January, opted to play in the Maybank Johor Masters this week after missing three straight cuts in Malaysia, Thailand and India on the main Tour over the past three weeks.
He was delighted his decision paid off with a solid start in Johor. “I wanted to play in Malaysia to build back some confidence after missing three straight cuts. I hit it good today and made some putts. The irons were working well,” said Fung.
The highlight of his round came at the par four 12^th hole when he missed the green and his ball ended on the fringe of the jungle without a sight to the flag. However, Fung amazingly chipped in for birdie although he was disappointed to bogey the demanding 18^th hole which would have given him the outright lead.
“I got lucky on 12 as I couldn’t see the pin from where I was. Somehow, I managed to chip the ball into the hole for birdie which was a bonus as I was staring at a bogey,” said Fung. “18 is a very tough hole and I didn’t hit a very good chip and just missed the putt.”
Wolmer, who missed out on his Asian Tour card from Qualifying School, thanked a hot putter for his good round. “I just dropped a lot of birdie putts which was nice. The greens were rolling really good and I took advantage as I hit almost every fairway and green in regulation,” said Wolmer.
Unlike Fung, Wolmer finished strongly with two closing birdies. “The last birdie was good as I had 203 yards into a difficult green but I managed to hit it to about three meters and made the putt. It was a very fast putt,” he said.
Title holder Luke Bleumink of Australia started his defence with a solid 69 which included four birdies.
The top three players on the ADT Order of Merit at the end of the season will earn Asian Tour cards for 2014 while all events receive Official World Golf Ranking points from this season onwards.
Leading first round scores
66: Wolmer MURILLO (VEN), Nicholas FUNG (MAS)
67: James BOWEN (USA), Rashid ISMAIL (MAS)
68: HSIEH Tung-shu (TPE), Grant JACKSON (ENG)
69: Hendre Izak CELLIERS (RSA) 69, Akhmal TARMIZEE (MAS), Darren TAN (AUS), Jakraphan PREMSIRIGORN (THA), Luke BLEUMINK (AUS), Mitsuhiko HASHIZUME (JPN), Iain STEEL (MAS) Spencer SHISHIDO (USA)
COMPLETE ROUND 1 SCORES

 
About the Asian Development Tour
The Asian Development Tour was launched in 2010 with the aim of creating a career pathway for professional golfers in Asia. Sanctioned by the Asian Tour, the Asian Development Tour will ultimately create a new playing platform for emerging stars from across Asia and around the world. Through the Asian Tour Qualifying School, players will qualify for the Asian Development Tour and enjoy the opportunity to hone their games and talent through a secondary circuit in Asia. Designed in the same structure as the Nationwide Tour in America and European Challenge Tour, the Asian Development Tour is a stepping stone to the Asian Tour and the exciting world of international golf. The Asian Development Tour has been structured to ensure the best opportunities for its members. The leading three players on the Asian Development Tour will earn coveted Asian Tour cards for the following season, ensuring a proper career pathway for aspiring professionals. The ADT will also receive Official World Golf Ranking points from 2013.
 

April 9: Asia’s history-maker Y.E. Yang believes he has the game to win the Masters Tournament as he seeks to land a second Major victory.
The Korean star, who became the first Asian male golfer to win a Major title when he beat Tiger Woods in a head-to-head duel at the 2009 PGA Championship, has flown under the radar in recent times following a quiet spell of form.
But the Asian Tour honorary member insists that the Masters is “winnable” as he prepares to take his place alongside the world’s elite at Augusta National Golf Club starting on Thursday.
“It is certainly winnable. Apart from the other three Majors, Augusta National does not have tough rough and it is not as long as the other Majors,” said Yang, 41.
“I have come up on the leaderboard at the Masters a few times previously. I have confidence going into the Majors but with Augusta National, it’s different. You play the same course every year and you have a feel of the whole layout and tournament.
“If you can get used to the green speed which is horrendous for the players, I feel it’s the better Major for the Asians to excel. It’s not too long but overall, it’s fairly straight forward. If you can get used to the green speed, it’s really anybody’s game.”
Yang’s best showing at the Masters was a tied eighth finish in the 2010 edition. He followed that up with a top-20 in 2011 and shared 57^th last year. The powerful Korean also finished equal third in the U.S. Open in 2011.
“I don’t know how many more Masters I’ll play in, but within my strength and ability, I’m going to try to go for another win and hopefully it will be the Masters which will be my second Major,” he said.
Yang has not won on the PGA Tour since his life-changing victory four years ago but three top-20s in recent times, including at the Asian Tour’s inaugural Chiangmai Golf Classic presented by PTT two weeks ago, have boosted his confidence.
“It’s definitely better than last year. It can only go up and it’s a gradual improvement for me. It’s not great but at the same time, it’s not too terrible but I’m going in the right direction,” he said.
“Last year was more psychological than physical. Technique wise, swing wise and form wise, it wasn’t that bad. I just put too much pressure on myself. The winless run added a lot pressure on me at every tournament
“This year, I’m more relaxed mentally and physically. It’s translated to a better start than last year.”
Countryman K.J. Choi, also an Honorary Member of the Asian Tour, will also tee up at the Masters this year where he will be hoping to improve on his career best finish of third place in 2004 at Augusta National.
About the Asian Tour
In 2013, the Asian Tour will celebrate a momentous milestone with its 10th season. As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Abacus (Official Apparel Partner), BlackBerry (Official Communications Partner), Canon (Official Imaging Partner), Inetol Headwear (Official Headwear Supplier), Saxo Capital Markets (Official Statistics Partner), Singha Beer (Official Beer), Srixon (Official Ball), Starwood Hotels and Resorts (Official Hotels and Resorts) and Rolex (Official Timekeeper). The Asian Tour has offices in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Also, visit us at www.dev-asian.ocs-software.com, www.facebook.com/asiantourgolf, www.twitter.com/asiantourgolf, www.youtube.com/theasiantour and www.weibo.com/asiantourgolf
 
 

Manila, April 9: Filipino star Angelo Que hopes to be the ace of the pack when he vies for a fourth Asian Tour title with a new set of equipment at the inaugural US$300,000 Solaire Open which gets underway on Thursday.
Que, a multiple Asian Tour winner but not since 2010, leads a strong line-up of local talents which includes decorated veteran golfer Frankie Minoza, Elmer Salvador, Jay Bayron, Antonio Lascuna and highly rated Miguel Tabuena at the venerable Wack Wack Golf and Country Club.
The bubbly Que reverted to a new set of equipment at the start of the 2013 Asian Tour season which resulted in a fourth place finish at the season-opening Zaykabar Myanmar Open in February.
Que insists there is still room for improvement in his game after missing his first cut in four Asian Tour events two weeks ago. He said he will need a bit of ‘luck’ to emulate his victory at the 2008 Philippine Open, which was staged at the same venue.
Miguel Tabuena of the Philippines
“So far I’m getting there with my new equipment. It is still early in the year. Every time you change equipment, you need time to adapt. I think I need a lot of luck to get my fourth win. I think anybody that wins need it. You also need every aspect of your game to click,” said the 34-year-old.
Que goes through a unique pre-game routine where he does not practice at the driving range as he believes in more ‘quality’ and not ‘quantity’ practice.
“I think one reason why I don’t exert so much effort in the driving range is because I’m not young anymore. I’ve always believed in quality and not quantity practice. I only spend time at the range when I’m working on something. If I don’t have anything to work on then I just chip and putt (20 or 30 minutes) before I play.
“Ever since I was a kid I’ve been doing that. In the Philippines back then, a lot of courses didn’t have driving ranges. It has been a routine since I was a kid so I didn’t want to change anything,” he smiled.
Tabuena is relishing a return to Wack Wack where he was in contention heading into the final round of the 2012 ICTSI Philippine Open before shooting an 81 to finish tied 11^th. The 18-year-old has learnt from that experience and recently notched his third victory on the local circuit three weeks ago.
“It is nice being a host in your home country rather than just playing in an event. It’s a new event on the Asian Tour. I think it’s really good for the players as well as for the Asian Tour. I hope this tournament will go on for a long time,” said Tabuena.
“I know my priorities for this week which is to concentrate and get in position on Sunday. There are more expectations when you play at home. Your family come out and watch as well. It is nice to have your family around. Hopefully I can play well in front of them,” he added.
Unho Park of Australia, who is part of the 22 different nationalities this week, was delighted with the addition of the Solaire Open, which is one of two new Asian Tour events this year. The region’s premier Tour is also celebrating its 10^th season in 2013.
“It’s great to have a new event on Tour. It’s not a new venue. We’ve played here for a couple of times over the years. I’ve been struggling with my golf game lately but I’ve had a bit of off time and rested for a bit. I just hope to make it up there somewhere during the week,” said Park, who has been an Asian Tour member since 2001.
Filipino veteran Lascuna, who finished a career high of 12th placing on the Asian Tour Order of Merit last season, struggled with a back injury earlier this year but is 80% recovered after returning to his hometown in Davao for a therapeutic massage.
“I needed to rest my body last week. I feel good now. Last year was a really good year for me and it all comes down to practice. I still hit at least 500 golf balls a day and play five times of golf a week. I think if I can get off to two good rounds, I can win this event,” said the 42-year-old, who is aiming for a first Asian Tour win.
Ends.
About Solaire Resort and Casino
Solaire Resort and Casino is the first to open in the highly anticipated Entertainment City project along the Philippine’s famed Manila Bay.
The first phase includes approximately 500 luxuriously appointed rooms, suites and bayside villas as well as resort-style pool facilities, bars and entertainment lounges. In addition, there is a state-of-the-art ballroom and meeting space, and a fully equipped spa and fitness center.
The resort also features a world-class dining experience at our signature, casual and quick serve restaurants. The new dining avenues are headed by world-renowned chefs and showcase a comprehensive selection of authentic local and international flavors to cater to even the most discerning palate.
And to give you the ultimate Las Vegas gaming experience, Solaire’s expansive 18,500 square-meter casino area stretches two levels of gaming space, including premium VIP salons and an outdoor themed casino and entertainment bar – all loaded with the most popular slot machines and table games, such as Baccarat, Blackjack, Pontoon and many more!
About the Solaire Open
The Solaire Open is a new event on the 2013 Asian Tour Schedule. It is title sponsored by the Solaire Resort and Casino and supported by DOT (Department of Tourism), Hyundai, the Official Mobility, Pru Life UK, the Official Insurer, Nescafé Dolce Gusto, the Official Coffee and Omega, the Official Timekeeper. The suppliers for the event include Holiday Inn Manila Galleria, the Official Hotel, Johnnie Walker, the Official Whiskey, Asahi Super Dry, the Official Beer, Srixon, the Official Ball, Panasonic, the Official Television Provider, Canon, the Office Solutions Provider and PepsiCo, the Official Water and Sports Drinks.
About the Asian Tour
In 2013, the Asian Tour will celebrate a momentous milestone with its 10th season. As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Abacus (Official Apparel Partner), BlackBerry (Official Communications Partner), Inetol Headwear (Official Headwear Supplier), Singha Beer (Official Beer), Srixon (Official Ball), Starwood Hotels and Resorts (Official Hotels and Resorts) and Rolex (Official Timekeeper). The Asian Tour has offices in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Also, visit us at www.dev-asian.ocs-software.com, www.facebook.com/asiantourgolf, www.twitter.com/asiantourgolf, www.youtube.com/theasiantour and www.weibo.com/asiantourgolf
 

Angelo Que (Phi)
I played in four Asian Tour events and made three cuts. I started well when I finished fourth in Myanmar. I slowed down after that. I missed the cut in Chiangmai two weeks ago but I think I was mentally tired there. It was my third straight event.
So far my game is getting better every year and week. I’m working on my putting more. That’s always been my weakness. I’m sort of finding my groove after with my new driver which I changed this year.
It is nice to play at home. I sleep in my own ‘hotel’ which is my house. My family is here. I get to see them every night. I think it is the greatest feeling.
I think I need a lot of luck to get my fourth win. I think anybody that wins need it. You also need every aspect of your game to click.
When I won my third title, I went through some changes (went for yoga and abstained from meat). It could have been coincidence but I think it helps. In this line of work, in this game, anything can work just as long as you believe in it. If you don’t then why even bother trying? For me, I just go with the flow. I don’t really think too much of anything.
So far I’m getting there with my new equipment. It is still early in the year. Every time you change equipment it is always like that. I was with Callaway for six or seven years and now I’m with Bridgestone.
I’ve been playing here since I was 10 years old. The course hasn’t change much except for some holes where they lengthened it. The greens are better and I know it well. I’m more experienced now so I think that will help.
In a year we play 20 or 26 tournaments a year. I think one reason why I don’t exert so much effort in the driving range is because I’m not young anymore. I’ve always believed in quality and not quantity practice. I don’t spend that much time at the range. I only spend time at the range when I’m working on something. If I don’t have anything to work on then I just chip and putt (20 or 30 minutes) before I play. That’s how it has always been.
Ever since as a kid I’ve been doing that. In the Philippines back then, a lot of courses didn’t have driving ranges. It has been a routine since I was a kid so I didn’t want to change anything.
Unho Park (Aus)
It’s great to have a new event on Tour. It’s not a new venue. We’ve played here for a couple of times over the years. I’ve been struggling with my golf game lately but I’ve had a bit of off time and rested for a bit. I just hope to make it up there somewhere during the week. I’m continually working hard on my game and trying to improve every week.
Miguel Tabuena (Phi)
It’s a new event on the Asian Tour. I think it’s really good for the players as well as for the Asian Tour. I hope this tournament will go on for a long time. I played in a local event about a few weeks ago and I won. That really boosted my confidence and I hope to bring my good form to the Asian Tour on Sunday.
Being in contention last year, I’ve learnt to manage my nervousness better. I’ve been wanting to win on home soil. You’ve to hit the fairways and greens to have a good score here.
This is slightly different because there are more expectations when you play at home. Your family come out and watch as well. It is nice to have your family around. Hopefully I can play well in front of them.
Hopefully some of my fans come out as well! I’ve tweeted about this week’s event so I’m looking forward to seeing some of them at the course.
I brought a couple of Asian Tour staff for dinner on Monday and it was good! We got to bond and I know them a bit better. My mum told them that she cooked but actually she didn’t (laughs).
It is nice being a host rather than just playing in an event. It is a new experience for me. We don’t get many events in the Philippines. It is nice because you don’t have to wait for the bus and stuff like that. It is a more relaxing week.
I know my priorities for this week which is to concentrate and get in position on Sunday. I have a week off next week so that’s when I see my friends.
Choo Tze Huang (Sin)
I’m not really happy with how I’ve been playing. I’ve been struggling a little bit. It is a bit of a rookie thing because I’m coming out on Tour for the first time. I made only one cut in Myanmar. I had a good start there and struggled a bit in India and did pretty well in Chiangmai but missed by one. My game is getting better but I need to work on my mental side and try to go out there and play golf instead of worrying so much.
I’ve been thinking a lot about keeping my Tour card and trying to do well. I’m putting too much pressure on myself and expecting a bit too much. I think I need to believe in myself and hopefully things go well.
I last played here (Wack Wack Golf and Country Club) about 10 years ago as a junior. I played a lot of junior golf here. I have good memories here and won a couple of junior events. It is a tough and tricky course. Hopefully it will be a good week.
There was one victory when I played against Kiradech Aphibarnrat (Thailand). We were playing for the overall title and it was one of those good memories that I have here. The scores weren’t good back then because this course is tough for juniors but I caught Kiradech by a few shots and won. I was about 13 or 14 years old so it was a very long time ago!
Lam’s (Chih Bing) result was good last week. He struggled last year and he is starting to play good golf again. I was watching him on television on the last couple of days and he was playing really well. It was unfortunate what happened on the third day but I think he still played great golf and it will be a good boost in confidence for him. I think he will be back to his best this year.
I haven’t had the time to talk to him but when I do, I will definitely give him a pat on the back.
Antonio Lascuna (Phi)
I needed to rest my body last week. I feel good now. Last year was a really good year for me and it all comes down to practice. I still hit at least 500 golf balls a day and play five times of golf a week. I think if I can get off to two good rounds, I can win this event.

April 9: Miguel Tabuena is ready to put behind last year’s defeat at the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club where he was in contention before settling for tied 11^th. He is ready to challenge for honours at the inaugural Solaire Open where he plays host to the Asian Tour players and staff. In this latest blog, he talks about growing up and taking the Tour’s staff out for dinner.
By Miguel Tabuena
The Solaire Open is a new event on the Asian Tour. I think it’s really good for the players as well as for the Asian Tour. I hope this tournament will go on for a long time. I played in a local event about a few weeks ago and I won. That really boosted my confidence and I hope to bring my good form to the Asian Tour on Sunday.
Being in contention last year (at the ICTSI Philippine Open), I’ve learnt to manage my nervousness better. I’ve been wanting to win on home soil. You’ve to hit the fairways and greens to have a good score here.
It is slightly different because there are more expectations when you play at home. Your family come out and watch as well. It is nice to have your family around. Hopefully I can play well in front of them.
Hopefully some of my fans come out as well! I’ve tweeted about this week’s event so I’m looking forward to seeing some of them at the course.
I brought a couple of Asian Tour staff for dinner on Sunday and it was good! We got to bond and I know them a bit better. My mum told them that she cooked but actually she didn’t (laughs).
It is nice being a host rather than just playing in an event. It is a new experience for me. We don’t get many events in the Philippines. It is nice because you don’t have to wait for the bus and stuff like that. It is a more relaxing week.
I know my priorities for this week which is to concentrate and get in position on Sunday. I have a week off next week so that’s when I see my friends.

Johor Bahru, Malaysia, April 9: Australian Luke Bleumink is looking forward to a successful title defence at the PGM-Maybank Johor Masters which starts on Wednesday despite being short of tournament sharpness.
The 27-year-old Bleumink headlines the RM200,000 (approximately US$65,000) Asian Development Tour (ADT) event at the challenging Johor Country Club which includes current Order of Merit leader James Bowen of the United States, local favourite Nicholas Fung, Chinese Taipei’s Hsieh Chi-hsien, who was fourth on the Merit list last season, and ADT winner Ryan Bulloch of Australia.
Last year, Bleumink secured his maiden professional victory in Johor by two shots, winning with a seven-under-par 281 aggregate after a closing round of 71.
After missing out on an Asian Tour card at Qualifying School in Hua Hin, Thailand earlier in January, Bleumink, who turned professional in 2010, has played in only two domestic events in Melbourne.
He has been working outside the ropes in between his golf to ensure he has enough funds to play regularly on the ADT, which is the feeder circuit to the established Asian Tour.
“It’s a weird feeling coming back to defend. I haven’t played too much golf this year but the game is feeling good,” said Bleumink today. “The golf course is in good condition and I think it is playing a bit easier this year as it was very fast and firm when I won here. I expect scores to be better this week.”
After seeing countrymen Scott Hend and Wade Ormsby triumph on the Asian Tour over the past few weeks, Bleumink believes the ADT is the best route to the region’s premier Tour which is celebrating its milestone 10^th season in 2013.
“I have been doing some labouring work back home to earn some money for my travels and I will take it as it comes.  I missed out at the Asian Tour Qualifying School but I’m going to try to play as much as I can on the ADT which provides a good chance for players like me to get onto the main (Asian) Tour,” he said.
This year, the ADT, which was launched in 2010, will offer Official World Golf Ranking points for the first time. This is seen as a major boost for the development of the game in Asia.
Malaysia’s Fung will lead the local assault where he is eager to launch a title charge after coming close on several occasions to a first ADT win. He finished runner-up in the last ADT stop at the PGM Northport Glenmarie Masters in Kuala Lumpur last month.
The top three players on the ADT Order of Merit at the end of the season will earn an Asian Tour card for 2014.
About the Asian Development Tour
The Asian Development Tour was launched in 2010 with the aim of creating a career pathway for professional golfers in Asia. Sanctioned by the Asian Tour, the Asian Development Tour will ultimately create a new playing platform for emerging stars from across Asia and around the world. Through the Asian Tour Qualifying School, players will qualify for the Asian Development Tour and enjoy the opportunity to hone their games and talent through a secondary circuit in Asia. Designed in the same structure as the Nationwide Tour in America and European Challenge Tour, the Asian Development Tour is a stepping stone to the Asian Tour and the exciting world of international golf. The Asian Development Tour has been structured to ensure the best opportunities for its members. The leading three players on the Asian Development Tour will earn coveted Asian Tour cards for the following season, ensuring a proper career pathway for aspiring professionals. The ADT will also receive Official World Golf Ranking points from 2013.

Manila, April 9: Choo Tze Huang returns to the scene of his epic battle with current Asian Tour Order of Merit leader Kiradech Aphibarnrat, ready to revive his winning memories at the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club when the US$300,000 Solaire Open tees off on Thursday.
The Singaporean, who earned his Asian Tour card at Qualifying School earlier this year, will make a long awaited return, more than 10 years since he played at Wack Wack as a junior golfer. He won numerous junior titles at Wack Wack but one that really stood out was when he defeated the big-hitting Thai Kiradech.
“There was one victory when I played against Kiradech. We were playing for the overall title and it was one of those good memories that I have here. The scores weren’t good back then because this course is tough for juniors but I caught Kiradech by a few shots and won. I was about 13 or 14 years old so it was a very long time ago!” smiled Choo.
The Asian Tour rookie is slowly finding his feet on the region’s premier Tour, which is celebrating its 10^th season, but a return to Wack Wack might very well bring out the best in him.
“I’m not really happy with how I’ve been playing. I’ve been struggling a little bit. It is a bit of a rookie thing because I’m coming out on Tour for the first time. I made only one cut in Myanmar. I had a good start there and struggled a bit in India and did pretty well in Chiangmai but missed by one. My game is getting better but I need to work on my mental side and try to go out there and play golf instead of worrying so much.
“I’ve been thinking a lot about keeping my Tour card and trying to do well. I’m putting too much pressure on myself and expecting a bit too much. I think I need to believe in myself and hopefully things go well,” said the 26-year-old.
He tipped countryman Lam Chih Bing, who finished third at the Panasonic Open India on Sunday, to shine among the elite field this week.
“Lam’s (Chih Bing) result was good last week. He struggled last year and he is starting to play good golf again. I was watching him on television on the last couple of days and he was playing really well. It was unfortunate what happened on the third day but I think he still played great golf and it will be a good boost in confidence for him. I think he will be back to his best this year,” he said.
“I haven’t had the time to talk to him but when I do, I will definitely give him a pat on the back,” added Choo.
About Solaire Resort and Casino
Solaire Resort and Casino is the first to open in the highly anticipated Entertainment City project along the Philippine’s famed Manila Bay.
The first phase includes approximately 500 luxuriously appointed rooms, suites and bayside villas as well as resort-style pool facilities, bars and entertainment lounges. In addition, there is a state-of-the-art ballroom and meeting space, and a fully equipped spa and fitness center.
The resort also features a world-class dining experience at our signature, casual and quick serve restaurants. The new dining avenues are headed by world-renowned chefs and showcase a comprehensive selection of authentic local and international flavors to cater to even the most discerning palate.
And to give you the ultimate Las Vegas gaming experience, Solaire’s expansive 18,500 square-meter casino area stretches two levels of gaming space, including premium VIP salons and an outdoor themed casino and entertainment bar – all loaded with the most popular slot machines and table games, such as Baccarat, Blackjack, Pontoon and many more!
About the Solaire Open
The Solaire Open is a new event on the 2013 Asian Tour Schedule. It is title sponsored by the Solaire Resort and Casino and supported by DOT (Department of Tourism), Hyundai, the Official Mobility, Pru Life UK, the Official Insurer, Nescafé Dolce Gusto, the Official Coffee and Omega, the Official Timekeeper. The suppliers for the event include Holiday Inn Manila Galleria, the Official Hotel, Johnnie Walker, the Official Whiskey, Asahi Super Dry, the Official Beer, Srixon, the Official Ball, Panasonic, the Official Television Provider, Canon, the Office Solutions Provider and PepsiCo, the Official Water and Sports Drinks.
About the Asian Tour
In 2013, the Asian Tour will celebrate a momentous milestone with its 10th season. As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Abacus (Official Apparel Partner), BlackBerry (Official Communications Partner), Inetol Headwear (Official Headwear Supplier), Singha Beer (Official Beer), Srixon (Official Ball), Starwood Hotels and Resorts (Official Hotels and Resorts) and Rolex (Official Timekeeper). The Asian Tour has offices in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Also, visit us at www.dev-asian.ocs-software.com, www.facebook.com/asiantourgolf, www.twitter.com/asiantourgolf, www.youtube.com/theasiantour and www.weibo.com/asiantourgolf

April 9: The Asian Tour stars will continue their search for glory at the inaugural US$300,000 Solaire Open at the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club. AsianTour.com takes a look at the top contenders this week.
Baek Seuk-hyun (Kor)
Baek is the dark horse this season. He has two top-five finishes so far and is currently fifth on the Order of Merit with earnings of US$145,303. He believes he has the game to win a first Asian Tour event but needs to stay fit. He is slowly reaping the benefits of a fitness change earlier this year and has lost eight kilograms so far.
Order of Merit: 5^th
Chawalit Plaphol (Tha)
Chawalit won the season-opening Zaykabar Myanmar Open and since then his best result was tied 34^th at the Avantha Masters in India. After his victory in Myanmar, the lanky Thai said the goal is to continue winning, which he hopes to do so at the Solaire Open.
Order of Merit: 10^th
Himmat Rai (Ind)
Himmat Rai of India
He was in contention at the Zaykabar Myanmar Open and Avantha Masters but eventually finished tied 13^th and ninth respectively. He believes he is riding a hot form and is ready to contend for a second Asian Tour title since his maiden victory in 2011 in Singapore.
Order of Merit: 20^th
Chinnarat Phadungsil (Tha)
Chinnarat set the stage alight when he shot an opening round 61 at the Avantha Masters in India before finishing tied 23^rd. He is a three-time Asian Tour winner but not since 2009, something he hopes to change this week. The Thais have enjoyed great success on the Asian Tour this year and Chinnarat will be determined to join the party.
Order of Merit: 25^th
Hu Mu (Chn)
His runner-up finish at the Chiangmai Golf Classic two weeks ago was his best result on the Asian Tour so far. It gave him the self-belief that he can take on the best players in the region and claim a first victory on the Asian Tour. He failed to earn an Asian Tour card at Qualifying School earlier this year but is making the most of his limited appearances.
Order of Merit: 27^th
Scott Barr (Aus)
Scott made the cut in his last four appearances on the Asian Tour. He is motivated by the victories of his countrymen Scott Hend and Wade Ormsby who won in the last two Asian Tour events. He has yet to win on the Asian Tour but is one of the top favourites to finally land that elusive title.
Order of Merit  28^th

April 8: Korea’s K.J. Choi warmed up for the Masters Tournament by finishing tied sixth at the Texas Open on Sunday.
The Asian Tour honorary member fired a closing round of four-under-par 68 for a four-day total of nine-under-par 279 to finish five shots behind winner Martin Laird of Scotland.
It was his second top-10 of the season on the PGA Tour which comes at the perfect time as he will tee up at Augusta National for the season’s first Major this week.
Choi has come close at the Masters previously. He finished third at the 2004 edition and was equal fourth and joint eighth in 2010 and 2011 respectively.
Other Asian stars who will feature in Augusta National include Y.E. Yang, Asia’s first Major champion, and reigning Asian Tour number one Thaworn Wiratchant, who was invited to play in the tournament after winning three times last season which led him to a second Order of Merit triumph.