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Zhang and Liang invited to The Invitational

Asian Tour members Zhang Lian-wei and Liang Wen-chong have been invited to play in The International at Castle Pines Golf Club in Colorado next month, the first time that two Chinese players will be in the field for a US PGA Tour event.

“I think this is another great step for China golf, to prove that our players are stepping up, and that we are heading towards the international stage,” said Zhang who last appeared in the US in 2004 when he became the first Chinese player to feature in the US Masters, made the cut at the FedEx St. Jude Classic, and entered the Memorial.

“I'm very excited to play in the US again, as it's been two years since I last played there. I think I’m looking at this as a trip to challenge myself. One thing that I’m very pleased with is that, when I played in the US last, I was the only Chinese player, but this time, Liang will also be there.”

Zhang's second attempt at the US PGA Tour will also include the Buick Open, where Zhang takes advantage of his personal sponsorship deal with the US motor manufacturers to earn a slot at the Warwick Hills Golf & Country Club on August 3.

For Liang, who celebrates his 28th birthday at the beginning of August, playing on the PGA Tour will represent a high-point in his career.

“It’s a great honour for me to be invited to play at The International. It’s my first US PGA Tour event, and it’s my first step to playing in the US. The tournament is unique and has a great history. The field is very strong, and I think this will be a great learning experience. I think this gives me a very good start in the US.”

Earlier this season, Liang said that his goal was to eventually qualify and play on the US PGA Tour and his appearance at The International will become the first step towards realising his ambition.

July 21, 2006