Johnnie Walker Cambodian Open returns for fourth year

http://www.thesportscampus.com/

via CAAI

Monday Sep 13th

The fourth staging of the Johnnie Walker Cambodian Open will be held at the Phokeethra Country Club from December 9-12, 2010. Officials announced today that the US$300,000 Asian Tour tournament will continue to serve its multi-pronged objectives to develop the game and also promote tourism in the emerging nation which is world famous for its Angkor Wat temples.

Since its historic inauguration in 2007, several of Cambodia's leading amateur golfers have enjoyed the opportunity of competing alongside Asia's greatest players and the vision is for them to eventually contend and win their national Championship.

Johnnie Walker, who will title sponsor the tournament for the fourth consecutive year, believes its extended commitment will continue to shape the landscape of golf in Cambodia.

"As in the spirit of Johnnie Walker where our "Keep Walking" slogan has inspired many people to follow their dreams through perseverance, passion and commitment, we believe our commitment to the Johnnie Walker Cambodian Open will inspire young Cambodian golfers to shoot for the stars," said Johnnie Walker South East Asia General Manager, Sam Fisher.

"We have enjoyed tremendous success over the first three editions where many great Asian Tour players have graced the fairways of Phokeethra Country Club and we hope their continued presence will inspire the local golfers. It remains our dream that one day, a Cambodian golfer will win the Johnnie Walker Cambodian Open."

American Bryan Saltus claimed a memorable triumph in the first edition in 2007 before Thai legend Thongchai Jaidee produced a popular victory in 2008. Last year, Australian Marcus Both prevailed at Phokeethra.

Asian Tour Executive Chairman Kyi Hla Han expressed his appreciation to Johnnie Walker for its title sponsorship. "Sponsorship is crucial in any sport and the Asian Tour is privileged and honoured that an international brand such as Johnnie Walker continues to support professional golf at the highest level in Asia," said Han.

"Johnnie Walker has for long been a terrific partner of golf around the world and through its continued support of Cambodia's national Open, we are confident of further raising the profile of the game in Cambodia."

Over the years, local amateur golfers including Seng Vanseiha, Kem Sam Rach, Eth Sarath and Nep Savath have enjoyed the experience of competing in the Johnnie Walker Cambodian Open.

Although none have succeeded in making the halfway cut, officials believe it is only a matter of time before they do so.

Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort & Phokeethra Country Club Managing Director Supachai Verapuchong said: "We remain fully committed to the vision of promoting golf and tourism in Cambodia. It is an honour for our golf club to host this prestigious event for a fourth successive year and we will endeavour to prepare our championship course to its best for the stars of the Asian Tour."