LIV Golf teaser for fans from GBA

Ayra Wang

Hong Kong Golf Club captain Andy Kwok Wing-leung expressed high hopes that the LIV Golf event, set to tee off tomorrow, will draw visitors from the Greater Bay Area.

Speaking at a pre-tournament press conference yesterday, Kwok highlighted the event's potential to boost tourism and showcase Hong Kong's appeal as a world-class destination.

The three-day tournament, which is set to kick off tomorrow at the historic Fanling Golf Course, will feature various zones offering dining, apparel, and sports products, targeting high-spending spectators.

"The event is not only for Hong Kong's 7 million residents but also for the over 80 million people in the GBA, just an hour's drive away," Kwok said.

Following its successful debut last year, Kwok noted that the club has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, fueling confidence in attracting even more visitors through word of mouth.

"This year, we're thrilled to see many players bringing their families to Hong Kong for the first time, showcasing the city's allure as a tourist destination," he said.

"We aim to provide not only an exciting competition but also a memorable experience for their loved ones, highlighting Hong Kong's rich culture, history, and attractions."

Kwok also welcomed the government's plans to explore making LIV Golf a permanent fixture in Hong Kong, saying his club will work closely with the authorities and other stakeholders to make it happen.

Ahead of the tournament, four players from Cleeks Golf Club - Martin Kaymer, Adrian Meronk, Richard Bland, and Frederik Kjettrup - visited the serene Tsz Shan Monastery in Tai Po on Tuesday.

Organized by the Hong Kong Golf Club, the trip brought the four to the monastery's renowned Guan Yin statue and its museum housing over 120 Buddhist artifacts, and allowed them to participate in a traditional prayer session.

Kaymer, a two-time major champion and Cleeks GC captain, shared his enthusiasm for Hong Kong, which he has visited multiple times.

"I love Hong Kong and its golf courses. It's a place you can't miss, and I hope to keep coming back," Kaymer said.

His wife Irene praised the city's unique blend of urban vibrancy and natural beauty, noting how "a short drive can take you from bustling streets to peaceful countryside."

The highly anticipated event will feature 54 of the world's top golfers and a HK$195 million prize pool - one of the biggest in Hong Kong sports history - alongside performances by internationally acclaimed DJ Peggy Gou.

ayra.wang@singtaonewscorp.com