BMW Golf Cup International: Hat-trick for Malaysia. Thrilling sport against a magnificent backdrop at the World Final in Singapore.

Singapore. The 25th BMW Golf Cup International this week reached a memorable climax against the breathtaking backdrop of Singapore and the South China Sea. The Sentosa Golf Club hosted the World Final, as the winners of the largest international tournament series for amateur golfers were determined from the 138 players from 46 different countries.

After three exciting rounds on the Serapong and Tanjong courses, on which the European Tour's Singapore Open is also held, the team from Malaysia emerged triumphant in the national competition. The Southeast Asians ran out clear winners ahead of New Zealand to complete a rare hat-trick at the BMW Golf Cup International, having also won the national competition for the past two years.

The title also went to Malaysia in the Men A category (handicap 12 and under): Kim Loong Toh finished two shots ahead of the runner-up from America, Neil Spitalny. The margin of victory was somewhat greater in the Men B competition (HCP 13-28), with Taiwan's Ming Yi Pai ending the tournament with a commanding eight-shot lead over second-placed Mohamed Al Musharrekh (United Arab Emirates). Norway’s Marit Kjelaas was crowned top lady at the 25th anniversary of the BMW Golf Cup International. She finished three shots ahead of Neetu Agarwal from India.

The winners received their trophies from Colin Montgomerie. The Scottish golfing icon was making his second guest appearance in a row at the BMW Golf Cup International, and had brought with him the Ryder Cup he won as captain in 2010.

“After last year's magnificent experience I was only too pleased to accept BMW’s invitation again,” said the eight-time winner of the Order of Merit on the European Tour. “I watched a great tournament on a first-class golf course. Whether for pros or amateurs, everything BMW organises is always excellent. There is no better partner in the world of golf.”

Before the presentation ceremony, which formed part of the closing Gala Night, Montgomerie had already entertained participants and guests at the BMW Golf Cup International with a demonstration session. The golf clinic was just one aspect of an extensive fringe programme, with which BMW spoilt the players and about 280 invited guests all week long. The leisure activities ranged from a stroll through Singapore to a beach party on Sentosa Island.

“For us, it is always a great pleasure that the BMW Golf Cup International brings together so many people from all over the world,” said Christian Masanz, Head of BMW Sports Marketing. “The world finalists created a wonderful atmosphere and played with great enthusiasm and sportsmanship. Not everyone can emerge victorious, but they are all winners to us. After all, they have all won their national competitions and then helped make the BMW Golf Cup International such a unique event.”

Results:

Men A:

1. Kim Loong Toh (Malaysia)                                                          115 points

2. Neil Spitalny (USA)                                                                        113

3. Malcolm Johnson (New Zealand)                                              109

Men B:

1. Ming Yi Pai (Taiwan)                                                                     121 points

2. Mohamed Al Musharrekh (United Arab Emirates)                   113

3. Hansjörg Wenzel (Austria)                                                           110

Ladies:

1. Marit Kjelaas (Norway)                                                                 103 points

2. Neetu Agarwal (India)                                                                   100

3. Dr. Lynn Slogrove (South Africa)                                                  99

Teams:

1. Malaysia                                                                                          211 points

2. New Zealand                                                                                  201

3. China                                                                                              195