Aussie challenge excites Chinese players

China national team members Zhang Weiwei and Zhang Jienalin will be looking to build on fond memories Down Under when the China LPGA Tour takes a historic step on Friday with the start of the inaugural Australia Classic.

With the Tour making its first foray overseas for the 150,000 Australian dollars tournament at Twin Creeks Golf & Country Club, the two Zhangs, both of them rookies on the Ladies European Tour this year, expressed their respect for the Graham Marsh-designed layout that they had played previously as amateurs.

"I have good memories from here. It was about two years ago when I was here representing China. I feel excited and amiable about coming back," said Zhang Weiwei, an 18-year-old from Hainan who is looking to rebound from a runner-up finish at last month's Zhuhai Classic where she was beaten in a playoff by Chinese Taipei's Babe Liu.

"The course conditions are good and the staff here is always nice. I think the course fits me very well as the fairways are wide and gives no pressure when you tee off. But the greens are hilly and tricky, the approach shots you have to be careful. I feel confident this week and will try my best to be competitive."

Zhang Jienalin only turned pro last year but already she is making a difference. After winning RMB2,000 in her first pro start, the 18-year-old donated the money to a charity in China that helps children afflicted with Leucocythemia. The disease occurs when there is a vastly increased number of white blood cells, causing an enlargement of the spleen, or the lymphatic glands.

"I feel relaxed when I come to Sydney and I hope I could keep this state on the course," said Zhang Jienalin, the top finisher in the Ladies European Tour qualifying school pre-qualifier held in China.

"I played Twin Creeks before, but it was teeing off from the red tees two years ago. It was the first time not taking my own caddie with me, so it feels kind of struggle without my caddie when I play the practice round. I heard the Twin Creeks members are very kind to offer their caddie service this week so I hope we can make a good team."

Another player enjoying the vibes of Sydney was Pan Yanhong. The China LPGA Tour veteran has been enamored with Australia on her first visit Down Under after taking in the sights of the country's largest city.

"I have fallen in love with this city. The people and friends I met here are so nice and it makes me feel relaxed and cozy," said the former powerlifter, a four-time winner on the Tour.

"I feel excited to give it my best on the course. The course is in good condition and the rough and greens will be the challenge. I will focus on the course and we will see." Endit