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Rong Gao-tang - China golf's founding father dies

China golf lost its founding father, Rong Gao-tang, earlier this week after he died at the age of 94.

Rong established the China Golf Association in 1985 and continued to work as a consultant for the association after his tenure as chairman.

Born in Bazhu of Hebei province in 191, Rong was a strong figure in China sports where he was the vice-chairman of the All China Sports Federation and headed the Chinese delegation who participated at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics.

He was elected secretary-general of the National Committee for Physical Education and Sport after the Olympic Games and appointed the vice president of the committee in 1979. He has worked as an advisor to the committee since August 1981.

Rong was also conferred a silver Olympic Order by former IOC President Juan Antonio Samaranch in 1983 in recognition of his contributions to China's sports development. This was the first time a Chinese sports leader ever won such a great honour.

China’s Zhang Lian-wei, a five-time winner on the Asian Tour, paid his tribute. “He was one of the most influential icons on the Chinese sport scene and he led the way for over 20 years for the China golf development. He helped me a lot. He was a good mentor and leader, a very kind man."

Liang Wen-chong, China’s number one golfer, said: “I have emotions of sadness and surprise. I salute him for his unconditional contributions and support to golf all through the years.”

November 20, 2006