2009 Golfathon a Success at China's Mission Hills Golf Club

Mission Hills Golf Club, the world's largest golf resort, announces the 2009 Golfathon had more than 2,800 participants, making it the most successful edition to date.

The Golfathon was founded in 2004 to celebrate Mission Hills' recognition by the Guinness World Records as the world's largest golf club.

From May 1 to August 31, men and women from 21 countries – ranging in age from six to 77 – sumbitted scores on nine of the club's renowned layouts. More than 25,000 rounds of golf were played during the competition. The top 100 finishers qualified for this weekend's Golfathon Final on Mission Hill's Olazabal Course, annual host of the Omega Mission Hills World Cup.

Last year's winner, Mr. Xiu Ping Yuan, shot a 71 to successfully defend his title. Mr. Xiu also recieved an honorary observer spot and hospitality privileges at November's Omega Mission Hills World Cup.

"We congratulate all of the 2009 Golfathon participants," says Tenniel Chu, Executive Director, Mission Hills Golf Club. "As evidenced by the field of competitior from all over the world, the Golfathon is a key aspect of Mission Hills' platform to promote international goodwill through golf."

Of the more than 2,800 participants, nearly 800 were resort guests. 84 of the participants were awarded the "Iron Man" status for playing all nine of their qualifyers within a five-day period. The competition featured a low round of 66 and one hole-in-one, netting the lucky player a new Audi.

"It was an honor to be involved with such a well-organized and fun event," said one participant.

"Having the Finals on the Olazabal Course was a real treat. It's not often one can say they competed in a tournament on a course that the world's best play every year." Says Chu: "Mission Hills would like to extend a special 'thank you' to our sponsers Audi, Folunsi, Ball, Thinkpad, Cleveland, Srixon, Polo Golf and Comfort Travel. Your support was crucial to making this  the biggest and best Golfathon yet."

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