Samarahan (SARAWAK): The fourth edition of the Samarahan Open for the Brian Chien Chai Ung Challenge Trophy will be held at the Samarahan Country Club from September 12-14.

The state’s top amateur golfer Lee Ka Tung from Sibu Golf Club is in the field and gunning for his third title, having won the first two editions of the championship before being denied by the narrowest of margins last year when he lost to fellow club member, Lau Ching Leong by one stroke.

Having been inaugurated as a 36-hole event in 2011, the championship was increased to 54 holes in 2012 and last year became only the second golf tournament in Sarawak to be accorded World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) status.

Aiming to enhance the level of play at the tournament, the organising committee has set the handicap limit to 14 with no cut-off to decide the gross champion, who will receive Brian Chein Chai Ung challenge trophy as well as merchandise vouchers worth RM3,500.

“With some of the top amateurs from every golf club in the state participating, this tournament will see the crème de la crème of golf in Sarawak vying for the champion’s title. We have also sent out special invitations to international affiliates and will likely see for the first time, the participation of more international golfers,” said Samarahan County Club president Brian Chein Chai Ung.

Chein also expressed his hope that local golfers would take the opportunity to play at the Samarahan Country Club. “The overall standard of golf course has improved by leaps and bounds and golfers who have not played at the Samarahan Country Club must take this opportunity to enjoy golf here,” he added.

The entry fee has been set at RM300, inclusive of one practice round (excluding buggy fees), daily breakfast and lunch, door gifts as well as buggy during tournament. Attractive prizes are also up for grabs for hole-in-ones, in addition to a lucky draw worth RM15,000. For further details on the tournament, contact Samarahan Country Club at samarahancc@gmail.com.