Nicholas looks to defend title
Published on: Monday, July 15, 2024
By: GL Oh
Nicholas (left) after his winning putt at the Hilux Cup last year and Ben (right) on his way to victory at Sibu GC last month.
Kota Kinabalu: Nicholas Fung is set to defend his title as the Toyota Tour’s Hilux Cup making a return to the Sabah Golf & Country Club (SGCC) tomorrow (Tuesday).
The local golf pro, who captured the title last year on his 33rd birthday, is likely to face strong challenges from other contenders led by fellow Sabahan Ben Leong who won the Fortuner Cup in Sibu last week.
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A revenge mission is also on the cards for the 38-year-old after he surrendered his lead on the final day and lost the title to Nicholas last year.
Other challengers include current Order of Merit leader Galven Green who won the season-opening Tun Ahmad Sarji Trophy and the Corolla Cross Cup at Glenmarie GCC, and Vios Cup winner Paul San.
Local female golfer and 2023 Toyota Tour Ladies’ Order of Merit winner Aretha Pan who surprised many to finish in joint second place with Ben Leong among the men’s field last year hoped the experience will work to her advantage.
“My experience from last year will definitely be an advantage. I have played SGCC since young and know how it behaves in different conditions. It’s always helpful to have that familiarity.
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“The soft and wet conditions can be challenging. I’ve played in similar conditions before, so I need to adjust my strategy and club selection a bit and stay focused,” she said.
Meanwhile, the organiser expect the players to showcase their skills in one of the toughest courses in Malaysia as the weather forecast predicts dry conditions until Thursday evening.
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