Four golf players took a break from practice to immerse themselves in Hong Kong’s cultural and spiritual attractions, as LIV Golf Hong Kong prepares to tee off on Friday at the historical Fanling Golf Course.
Martin Kaymer, Adrian Meronk, Richard Bland and Frederik Kjettrup from Cleeks Golf Club, accompanied by their partners, visited the serene Tsz Shan Monastery in Tai Po on Tuesday.
The visit, organized by event organizer Hong Kong Golf Club, allowed the golfers to explore the monastery’s renowned Guan Yin statue, its museum housing over 120 Buddhist artifacts and its tranquil surroundings, as well as participate in a traditional Buddhist prayer session.
Kaymer, a two-time major champion and Cleeks GC captain, shared his enthusiasm for Hong Kong, a city he has visited multiple times.
“I love Hong Kong and its golf courses. It’s a place you can’t miss, and I hope to keep coming back,” said Kaymer, who first played in Hong Kong during a European Tour event in 2017.
His wife, Irene, praised the city’s unique blend of urban vibrancy and natural beauty, noting how “a short drive can take you from bustling streets to peaceful countryside.”
Kaymer, who has a personal interest in Buddhist philosophy, found the monastery visit particularly meaningful.
“It’s a chance to pause, connect with the moment, and find inner peace,” he said.
“The lessons from Buddhism help me stay calm under pressure on the golf course.”
The LIV Golf Hong Kong 2025 tournament, featuring 54 of the world’s top golfers, promises to be a thrilling three-day event with a total prize pool of HK$195 million – one of the highest prize money events in Hong Kong sports history.
Andy Kwok Wing-leung, captain of the Hong Kong Golf Club, expressed his delight at the growing international appeal of the tournament.
“This year, we’re thrilled to see many players bringing their families to Hong Kong for the first time, showcasing the city’s allure as a tourist destination,” Kwok said.
“We hope to provide not only an exciting competition but also a memorable experience for their loved ones, highlighting Hong Kong’s rich culture, history, and attractions.”
Kwok also welcomed the government’s plans to make LIV Golf a permanent fixture in Hong Kong, saying his club will work closely with the authorities and other stakeholders to make it happen.
“A long-term partnership with LIV Golf would allow us to expand the event, making it even more spectacular and attracting a larger audience,” he added.
Adding to the excitement, internationally acclaimed DJ Peggy Gou is set to perform at the Fan Village on Saturday evening, following the second round of the tournament. The concert, alongside world-class golf and family-friendly activities, aims to create a festival-like atmosphere, blending sports, entertainment, and tourism.
(Ayra Wang)
