World number two Westwood replaces Els for Shui On Land China Golf Challenge
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World number two Lee Westwood has replaced Ernie Els in the Shui On Land China Golf Challenge from October 10-16 after the South African withdrew from the week-long, 18-hole event due to personal reasons.
The Englishman’s participation means the Shui On Land China Golf Challenge boasts two of the world’s top four players after Rory McIlroy moved to fourth in the official world golf ranking following his joint-third finish in the Omega European Masters on Sunday.
Westwood, who has already won two titles in Asia this year, joins McIlroy, their Ryder Cup teammate Ian Poulter and Chinese number one Liang Wen-chong for the innovative, made-for-television tournament.
The four golfers will compete over two or three holes at each of eight courses in Shanghai (October 10), Beijing (October 11 and 12), Dalian (October 13), Chongqing (October 14), Dongguan (October 15) and Macau (October 16). The players will also participate in pro-ams and coaching clinics at selected venues.
After each day’s golf, Liang will play the role of host as he shows Westwood, Poulter and McIlroy the culture and attractions of each city. Destinations include the ‘Shanghai Xintiandi’ entertainment district and Shui On Land’s Tiandi development in Chongqing, featuring the famous ‘Shark Bar’ in the Chongqing 88 boutique hotel.
Westwood said: “I’ve played in China before, but I’m really excited about the Shui On Land China Golf Challenge because we’ll be visiting six cities spread across the country and playing eight top-class courses. China is really booming and each time I visit I’m always surprised at how it’s changing, so this event should be a real eye opener.”
Go to www.shuionlandchinagolfchallenge.com for more information and follow the challenge on Twitter @ChinaGChallenge.
