Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship opens in Shandong

Amateur golf masters from 37 countries in the Asia-Pacific region have gathered in Shandong to compete in the 2013 Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship from Oct 24 to 27.

Ten players, including Guan Tianlang and Dou Zecheng, are representing China in the competition held at the Nanshan International Golf Club. Most of the players were from the national team.

"This course is very beautiful, the weather is good, the competition lineup is impressive, it will be a wonderful game," said Guan, who is celebrating his 15th birthday with the Chinese players on Friday. "I want to play as well as those guys in the competition."

Guan won the championship last year in Thailand and received an invitation to the Masters' Tournament in the United States, making him the youngest player ever to compete in the tournament.

The teen hopes his experiences and training from the Thailand championship will guide his game in Shandong.

He said: "The Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship is the best amateur game in the world. To take part in this competition, is an amazing learning and growing experience."

Born in Guangzhou, Guan began practicing golf at just 4 years old. In 2011, Guan won the 24th China Golf Amateur Tournament. At age 14, he became the first Chinese player to win the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championships on Nov 4, 2012, in Bangkok.

China National Golf Team Head Coach Alan Huang said he believes this year's Chinese team is strong and has a good chance at winning the competition.

"This contest is a rare opportunity that can boost player development," Huang said.

Asia-Pacific Golf Association Chairman Hur Kwang-soo said: "China is playing an increasingly important role in Asia and the world of golf. Nanshan International Golf Club is China's most famous, it will provide an excellent stage for the Asia-Pacific region's top players."