Hong Kong: Hong Kong Golf Club (HKGC) Captain Andy Kwok has hailed the return of top-level golf to the territory.

It was 38 months ago that Hong Kong last staged a major championship before Covid struck. But after the long wait, the fabled Fanling venue is ready to host this week’s US$1 million World City Championship presented by Hong Kong Golf Club, a 72-hole Asian Tour event.

Following a ferry tour of the city’s spectacular harbour, Kwok welcomed the players and the return of international golf to the city.

He said: “The club is thrilled to welcome back world-class golfers and spectators to the fairways of Fanling after such a long break.

“There has been really great interest in the tournament, which is reflected in the extremely large number of fans who have already registered for tickets, so this is all very encouraging.

“We have a wonderful field of competitors, including a great mix of household names and really talented local players, and many fun-filled, off-course activities for spectators to enjoy, so we are all set for four days of fantastic action.”

The World City Championship marks the start of an active season of international competition at Fanling. 

In addition to hosting the inaugural WCC, the club will also stage the Aramco Team Series Hong Kong, a premier Ladies European Tour event, in October, whilst the 62nd edition of the Hong Kong Open, Hong Kong’s oldest professional sporting event, makes a welcome return in November. 

The World City Championship presented by Hong Kong Golf Club is proud of being an ‘M’ Mark event that helps enhance the image of Hong Kong as Asia’s sports events capital. The ‘M’ Mark is awarded by the Major Sports Events Committee, symbolising an intense, spectacular and signature event in the territory’s sports calendar.

The Hong Kong Golf Club is a Facility Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.