The Rub of the Green

For a small, mountainous place with very little flat land, Hong Kong has a remarkable number of golfing enthusiasts —— some 200,000 at last count! For this group and increasing numbers from the Mainland and elsewhere in Asia, the China-Hong Kong International Golf Show is one of the year's real highlights. In 2005 the third edition of this immensely popular annual show was held at the HKCEC from 11 to 13 March, drawing nearly 10,000 visitors from 23 countries and regions over its three days —— that's a rise of 15% over last year's numbers. Organiser Neway International Trade Fairs Ltd says the growth can be put down both to the increasing popularity of the sport worldwide, and to the Show's established role as the biggest such event in Hong Kong and southern China. Around 120 booths from 12 countries and regions were set up at the Centre: they were displaying all the industry's top brands and products, from golf wear to every type of golfing equipment and accessory. A number of exciting activities were hosted too, with some of the most popular extras including the "Golf Convention" (a series of seminars and practical workshops), a well-frequented hitting and putting area, and a fabulous Mini-Golf competition starting a number of local celebrities. The Show also hosted the popular Youth Programme in conjunction with the Hong Kong Golf Association, designed to promote interest in the sport amongst children. Look out for the fourth edition of this great show at the HKCEC in 2006, a must-visit event for professionals and amateurs alike!