Volvo China Open set for Chengdu returns in 2019

World
Europe

China's southwest city Chengdu will host the 25th anniversary edition of the Volvo China Open in 2019.

The 20-million-yuan (2.9-million-US-dollar) tournament, which was last staged in Chengdu in 2011, will return to the Sichuan provincial capital from May 2-5 as the country celebrates a quarter of a century of its flagship pro tournament.

"Twenty-five is a very special number as China's national tournament celebrates a quarter of a century on the nation's sporting calendar," said Sven De Smet, chairman of the Volvo China Open board.

"It marks an important milestone in what has been significant development of golf in China, as well as underlining the strong and visionary partnership between Volvo and the China Golf Association.

April 19, 2011: Sergio Garcia of Spain (L) and Padraig Harrington of Ireland pose for photos with a baby Panda during their visit to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. /VCG Photo

"The success of the 2011 event demonstrated the enthusiasm of people from southwest China and the local fans' love for the event. When we were last in Chengdu, images of major champions Padraig Harrington and Sergio Garcia holding two of the city's baby pandas proved popular around the world and helped further boost the popularity of the tournament."

"I believe with the full support of the Tradition at Wolong Valley, the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Chengdu will be a fitting setting for the 25th anniversary celebrations of the Volvo China Open," Sven De Smet said.

(Top image via VCG, April 21, 2011: Liang Wenchong of China in action during the Volvo China Open in Chengdu.)

Source(s): China Daily