Client News
Noh ready to rub shoulders with game’s elite
Jeju, Korea, 22 April 2009 - Teenage sensation Noh Seung Yul is looking forward to learning from the superstars at this week’s Ballantine’s Championship in his native Korea.
The talented 17-year-old is the talk of Asian golf after his brilliant rookie season in 2008.
Victory in the China Classic, three second places and six other top-10 finishes on the Asian Tour confirmed him as one of the brightest young talents on the world stage.
Now he has the chance to showcase his skills against the game’s elite at the Ballantine’s Championship, which tees off on Thursday at Pinx Golf Club on the Korean holiday island of Jeju.
“I think last year was one of growth for me and I would like to continue that and improve my performances,” said Noh.
“Playing on the Asian Tour has allowed me to work on my game, study hard and practice diverse shots, and I’ve been able to learn from other players.
“Of course, winning is very important. But for me, I would like to have the opportunity to get some good results.
“I know that this is a big tournament and there are many world famous golfers here. And with it being held in Korea, I want to achieve the best possible result.”
The star-studded field at the €2.1 million Ballantine’s Championship includes three-time Major winner Ernie Els and former Masters champion Fred Couples.
World No.9 Henrik Stenson, defending champion Graeme McDowell and Lee Westwood – an 18-time winner on the European Tour – are also in the line-up.
The tournament is once again co-sanctioned by the European and Asian Tours and Korea PGA.
Noh has two top-10 finishes this season and, as the highest-ranked Korean in the field, will carry the hopes of the nation at Pinx.
But he is under no illusions about the size of his task this week. “Because this tournament is being held in Korea, I have people saying to me that I should have a good chance to win,” he said.
“But there are so many world class players taking part, so I know it’s going to be difficult.”
Even so, the Korean believes he is under less pressure compared to his amateur days. “When you’re an amateur, you don’t have that many tournaments to play in so there is a lot of pressure each time.
“Since turning professional, I’ve been able to play every week, which makes me less nervous. I tend to enjoy the tournament more because I know there’s another one waiting for me next week.”
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Released on behalf of the Ballantine’s Championship by Two Up Front - Asia’s sports PR specialists.