Asia golf could get bigger if plans for Elite Tour get nod

Since its inception in 2004, the Asian Tour has grown to 28 events over 16 countries.

Recently though, it was perceived that its growth was being threatened, if the Australian PGA had its way.

The Australians, together with the Japan Golf Tour Organisation, China Golf Association and Korean Golf Association, want to set up a rival Tour called

"OneAsia" with a planned launch in 2009.

But the Asian Tour chief was not pleased with the encroachment, claiming OneAsia would affect sponsors and players.

Kyi Hla Han, Asian Tour's executive chairman, said: "It can't run parallel......(to the Asian Tour).....we've to work out something to resolve the issue.....but I don't think we can run parallel, because I think it confuses the market place, and I think our players are firmly behind supporting our Tour, the Asian Tour."

Since then, the Australian PGA has cleared their stand on the matter, saying some consolidation is necessary for the game's future growth.

Ben Sellenger, Australia PGA's Tour Commissioner, said: ".....whether it be a federation, whatever it might be, coming together to create a central property, which has more of a capacity to grow within the region."

The parties concerned are expected to meet next week at the Pine Valley Beijing Open golf event. If they can resolve their differences, Asia could see the setting up of an Elite Tour, with events boasting prize money from US$6 million to US$8 million.

A united Asia-Pacific that includes India will also have other benefits for the region.

A C Wong, executive chairman of ASEAN Golf Tour, said: "By doing this, they want to re-look at the possibility that as a grouping they can speak with a stronger voice when you sit down with the world federation....(or) negotiating.....with the other bigger tours."

The ultimate winners will be the Asian golfers who will not have to go to Europe or the US to enhance their careers. - CNA/ir