Asian PGA Open First Academy In Johor Bahru

Contact Simon Wilson
Media Officer
Asian PGA Tour Limited
Tel: (65) 226 4646
www.asianpgatour.com

JOHOR BAHRU, Malaysia (August 7, 2002) - In a move that will further strengthen the healthy state of the professional game in Asia, the Asian PGA have opened their first Golf Academy at the Palm Resort Golf and Country Club in Johor Bahru, Malaysia.

Operational since the beginning of this month the Academy is primarily involved in the development of teaching programmes for professionals and amateurs alike.

Palm Resort, which is an idyllic facility located in the heart of Johor, boasts three first class golf courses, a four star hotel, and a 300-yard driving range and is therefore the perfect place for the region's best players to improve their games.

"This is an exciting time for all involved in Asian professional golf. We feel this is a good opportunity for the Asian PGA to become involved in the teaching and learning process of the game and to build on what we have achieved with the Davidoff Tour. The success around the world that we have seen from some of our Asian PGA members continues to grow from strength to strength," said Ramlan Harun, Executive Director, Asian PGA.

The Asian PGA teaching staff will be led by one of the region's foremost coaches, Kel Llewellyn. The Australian has been the Director of Player Development for the Asian PGA for the past two years and through the Academy he will be able to continue to play a key role in the progress being made by Asia's golfers.

"We are very much looking forward to building a close and strong relationship with the Asian PGA. With the Asian PGA being a member of the International Federation of PGA Tours, we feel they are a superb partner for Palm Resort as we are one of the leading international resorts in the Asian region," said Tim Hallett, Managing Director of Palm Resort.

For further information please contact the Asian PGA Golf Academy at (607) 599 0088.