Jeev looks to defend Volvo China Open after ordinary Masters debut

Shanghai, Apr 10 (UNI) After fulfilling his childhood dream of playing the Masters, Jeev Milkha Singh will look to return to the winner's enclosure at the 2 million dollar Volvo China Open when he tees off on Thursday here.

The defending champion was dogged by injuries for seven years and loss of confidence, but emerged the winner at the Shanghai Silport Golf Club last year, which helped him soar to the pinnacle of his career when he claimed the UBS Order of Merit title at the end of the season.

Jeev became the first ever Indian to play at the Masters where he finished in joint 37th position at Augusta National on Sunday.

After a steady start, Jeev, who played alongside Fijian Vijay Singh in final round, endured a slow finish with a 79 and ended with a 14-over-par 302 total at Masters.

The 13th edition will once again be tri-sanctioned by the Asian Tour, European Tour and China Golf Association.

Organisers also announced that for the first time, an Open international qualifying offering three spots into the Championship will be staged in Hong Kong later this month while three more qualifying events offering nine places will be held for China's hopefuls.

Thai youngster Chapchai Nirat, who enjoyed his maiden win at the TCL Classic last month will also be hoping to produce another solid result in the April 12-15 event besides his compatriots Thongchai Jaidee and Thaworn Wiratchant will be on the prowl eager to deliver.

Following the staging of the 13th edition in 2007, the Volvo China Open will return to the Beijing CBD International Golf Club in 2008 to commemorate the Olympic Games which will be held in the Chinese capital.

UNI