HONG KONG HARBOUR TEED UP FOR CHARITY

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One of the most scenic and breathtaking harbours in the world will serve as a backdrop for a unique opportunity to donate HK$1 million with three swings of a golf club to a charitable cause. From November 26-30 the Avenue of Stars on the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade will offer golfers and non-golfers, young and old, a chance to tee off into Hong Kong harbour with all proceeds going to Operation Santa Claus.

The first ever Harbour Hole in One charity campaign is put on by the UBS Hong Kong Open 2011, and for a minimum donation of HK$20 allows the general public a unique opportunity to not only have fun, but also to contribute to one of the territories most active charities. If a participant gets three consecutive holes in one, an unheard of HK$1 million will be donated to the charity, and there’s the chance to win great prizes from UBS Hong Kong Golf Open sponsors JW Marriott and Nespresso too.

Timothy Tang, a 24-year-old Hong Kong professional golfer, is looking forward to participating in the event. “I think the ‘Harbour Hole in One is a very meaningful activity,” said Tang. “With a charity donation of just HK$20, you can show your golf technique and have a chance to win HK$1 million for charity. We don’t get any opportunities to do something like this in the harbour so I would encourage one and all to come on out and enjoy this event!”

There are also a number of other activities being held in conjunction with the Harbour Hole in One that are free to take part in and will give everyone a chance to swing some clubs, maybe for many for the first time. Three putting greens will be set up alongside two practice nets where professional golfers will be on hand to help participants practice shots. “This really is a great opportunity to engage the local community with golf,” said Jamie Birkmyre, Director of Championship Management of the European Tour. “We would love to challenge every golfer in Hong Kong to come down and test their skills at the main challenge, but we would particularly like to have those who may not have picked up a golf club before to come down and join in the fun. Everyone’s welcome.”

As one of the oldest and most respected golf tournaments in Asia, the UBS Hong Kong Open has a rich history and a sterling list of past champions. This year the event is supported by the Mega Events Fund and the organizers are excited to be able to contribute to Operation Santa by hosting the first ever Harbour Hole in One.

Now in it’s 23rd year, Operation Santa Claus is an annual charity campaign jointly organized by South China Morning Post (SCMP) and Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK). It aims to support the Hong Kong community and beyond, through the combined charitable fundraising power of two of Hong Kong’s most respected news organizations. It has grown substantially over the years in its fundraising scope and is well known for the number of different activities it uses to help charitable causes.