In a big boost for golf in the state, the inaugural Johor Open 2023 will be staged at Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club from November 14-16 for amateur men and women.
There will be a practice round held the day before the start of the tournament (Nov 13). Announcing the event, the organisers, Johor Golf Association, said they were pleased to play host to such an auspicious tournament and looked forward to making it a big success on an annual basis.
“Currently we have more than 100 registered players, who entered the event within two weeks of announcing it in October,” said the state association in a statement. “We are also happy to say that the tournament is supported by the Johor State Government and co-sponsored by Mahsing Group, Ancom Bhd and Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club. The Johor Open 2023 is sanctioned by the Malaysia Golf Association and is recognised by the World Amateur Golf Rankings (WAGR) as a points system event.”
Elaborating on the staging of the championship that will be played over 54 holes, the organisers added, “By hosting this event, the state association hopes to enhance golf tourism in Johor and provide elite amateur players from around the country, and beyond, a platform to sharpen their skills in preparation for their future endeavours, whether it be to turn professional or otherwise.
“The Johor Golf Association takes the development of amateur and junior sport very seriously, hence the staging of this first tournament, which we hope will become an annual highlight for golf in this country. We are looking forward to top-class golf being played at Horizon Hills with some of the country’s best players in action. We are also thankful to the State Government and co-sponsors Mahsing Group, Ancom Bhd and Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club for their unwavering support, as well as the other sponsors who have come forward to help make it possible.”
Entry to the tournament is for amateur players with a handicap index of 15.9 (men) and 21.6 (women) or less, as of September 1, 2023. Players without an official handicap may enter the competition but are only eligible to participate in the gross event with the approval of the organising committee. All players must have a valid golfer’s insurance.
In the case of the field being limited to 120 competitors on a first-come first-serve basis, there will be a cut-off after 36 holes. The top 60% (gross) and ties will advance to the third and final round. The rules of play shall be in accordance with the Rules of Golf as approved by R&A Rules Limited and the Local Rules as approved by the Tournament Committee. The entry fee is RM 350 for Malaysians and RM450 for foreign players, and is inclusive of green fees, goodie bag, buggy, caddie, daily breakfast, and prize presentation lunch.
