KUCHING: State golfing ace Lee Ka Tung hit a total of 143 gross points to emerge champion in the 29th Sarawak Classic Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Challenge Trophy.
Sibu Golf Club golfer Lee, shot a 72 on the first day on Saturday and bettered his score with a 71 on the second day yesterday at the Sarawak Golf Club (KGS).
Meanwhile, state teen golfer Mirabel Ting Ern Hui of Miri Golf Club carded a two-day total of 148 (74, 74) to win the ladies category.
The prize giving ceremony was graced by the Chief Minister, Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg.
In his speech, he told KGS that if they could pull off an international golf event to be held in the state, he would sponsor the whole championship.
“We are currently encouraging sports tourism, so that not only we can have foreigners coming in, but also having be able to relate with each other through sports.
“Up till yesterday, Sarawak has hosted many international events such as the Malaysian International Open Masters Athletics Championships (MIOMAC).
“I also commend the fellowship that golfers have between each other. Therefore, with an international event, golfers all around the world can gather and learn from each other,” said Johari who is also the president of KGS.
Also speaking at the event was the patron of the championship Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr. George Chan who requested from Johari to have the golf course to be upgraded.
“If the state government were to have a surplus, maybe we could improve the golf course so that we can hold some international events here.
“Hence, for the upgrading, we would need around RM25 million annually for a period of two years to turn the course into a premium one,” said George.
