KAJANG: It was the third encounter, and perhaps, Team China got a bit lucky.
They emerged winners in the third round of the China-Malaysia 50th-year Diplomatic Relations Golf Series at the Sungai Long Golf and Country Club yesterday. The first round ended in a tie, and Malaysia won the second round.
Played in matchplay format, Team China edged their Malaysian counterparts 9-8.
However, Malaysia's Khairul Hisham won the gross score category while compatriot Kelvin Lim won the medal A category.
New Straits Times (NST) admin executive Pizan Mustapa won the medal B category.
Datin Evelyn Teoh from Team Malaysia won the best lady player category.
A total of 80 players - 40 each from China and Malaysia - competed in the third round of the series.
NST executive editor Sharanjit Singh and Omnia director of Business Development Roche Chew presented prizes to the winners.
Team China captain Andy Foo said: "We're excited about this win as this is the third round and the first time Team China have emerged victorious.
"This friendly tournament is a reflection of the China-Malaysia relationship, and I can say that everyone on my team enjoyed this game.
"We will try to get more wins, but the Malaysia team are also very strong and competitive. But we like a healthy, competitive environment.
"I'm sure we will have more players to join in the next rounds, and we also wish for Malaysia to win in the next round, but we will give them a good fight to defend our title."
The next round of the series will be held at the Templer Park Country Club in August, followed by Glenmarie Golf & Country Club in October and the final round at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club in December.
The China-Malaysia Diplomatic Relations Golf Series, which features six rounds, is jointly organised by WDA Technology Sdn Bhd and The Golf Goddess with the New Straits Times Press as official media partner.