ASIAN GOLF INDUSTRY FEDERATION

Xiao Rises to Norman's Xiamen Challenge

Bowen Xiao Xiamen

Bowen Xiao savours his maiden pro victory. Picture by Paul Lakatos/Asian Tour


Xiamen, China: Bowen Xiao claimed his first professional title after prevailing on the second extra hole in a play-off against Bryden Macpherson at the US$350,000 KG S&H CITY Asian Golf Championship.
The 27-year-old Xiao, who joined the play-for-pay ranks in 2012, held a three-shot lead after 14 holes but three bogeys in his closing four holes saw him sign for a two-over-par 74, which forced him to go the distance with Macpherson, who ended his campaign with a 69.
The duo were tied on three-under-par 285 in regulation play at the Kaikou Golf Club’s West Course, designed by Greg Norman Golf Course Design, a Full Business Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.
China’s Xiao missed a five-footer for birdie on the first play-off hole, the 440-yard par-four 18 to settle for par alongside Australian Macpherson.
Xiao redeemed himself by making a four-foot birdie putt on the same play-off hole second time around to seal the victory while 27-year-old Macpherson, who needed to claim the title to win the China Tour Order of Merit crown, bowed out with a par.
Xiao took home the winner’s cheque for US$63,000 and earned a one-year exemption on the Asian Tour.
Xiao said: “Before winning today, I have imagined countless times how my first victory will be liked. It was never the way it turned out today. I’m feeling really emotional inside. I have a lot of people to thank. It hasn’t been easy but I am glad I managed to get the job done this week.
“I am really honoured to be the third player from China to win on the Asian Tour. I don’t dare to compare myself against former Asian Tour winners Liang Wen-chong and Zhang Lian-wei because I have not achieved as much as they did for golf in China.
“This is my first professional win and it means the world to me. I enjoyed playing in my first Asian Tour event this week.”
 
 

Share with your Friends

View More Articles

SGA Unveils National Squads for 2024

SGA Unveils National Squads for 2024

Posted on February 8, 2024
Singapore: The Singapore Golf Association has unveiled its 46 squad members for 2024, in a ceremony held at the Singapor...

About AGIF

The Asian Golf Industry Federation (AGIF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting all facets of the golf industry across Asia. Our members and partners involved in to advance sustainable practices and drive the industry’s growth. Join us in taking the next step towards a sustainable industry.

Contact

Asian Golf Industry Federation
3 Coleman Street,
#04-35 Peninsula Shopping Complex,
Singapore 179804
Chief Communications Officer
communications@agif.asia
Greenkeeping Education Manager
pkong@agif.asia
Membership & Administration Manager
membership@agif.asia

Connect With AGIF

Copyright © 2023 Asian Golf Industry Federation.
Asian Golf Industry Federation