The 2024 Mission Hills Masters – Hainan Island, the inaugural China event co-hosted by SGA and AYM Golf Tours, proved to be (in the words of a few guests) one of our “best-ever events”. Featuring a week of island fun (followed by an optional 3-day extension for even MORE golf), the event had it all: World-class golf, 5-star service, a lush & tropical setting and stunning scenery.
A total of 57 players and their guests & partners were welcomed to the Mission Hills Masters at a sumptuous Welcome Dinner Buffet. They met their fellow players, enjoyed a few beverages and received their souvenir Tournament Polos, caps, bag tags and more.
Day 1 of the Mission Hills Masters proved to be a cracker! Playing the Sandbelt Trails course (modeled after Melbourne’s famed golf region), our golfers were treated to an impeccably-presented golf course, knowledgeable (and friendly) caddies, and 5-star treatment all around. Despite some high temps and humidity, our players had an absolute blast.
Another stellar day, hosted at the gorgeous Lava Fields course. What a course! The lava rocks (everywhere) provided not only a great setting, but also some unexpected bounces. And the immaculate greens and fairways were a joy! In the event, a few players began jockeying for position, with Drew Hallam leaping to the top of A Grade (38-38), Ian Jolliffe leading B Grade (37-37), and Carl Rutledge atop C Grade (24-34).
Wednesday was a well-earned rest day. While some golfers chose to play another round of optional golf on one of the many stunning par-3 courses at Mission Hills, many other golfers took the day to explore the Mission Hills Resort’s shops, indulge in the free Spa (including 68 Volcanic Pools) or just chill by the sparkling pool. Still others took the free shuttle to the city of Haikou (to explore shopping, the Zoo, and authentic Hainan Cuisine) or a quick trip to the shops and attractions at Mission Hills Centerville.
Round 3 marked the inaugural China & Australia Friendship Cup. Held at the The Vintage Course, over 100 Australian and Chinese Golfers enjoyed a day of fun, friendship and camaraderie. This was a landmark occasion for all involved, with the language of golf transcending all barriers. Many long-lasting friendships were made.
Following the round, the golfers from both countries enjoyed a lunch together, and an awards ceremony, while they discussed their great (and not-so-great) shots on the course.
The Blackstone Course provided a magnificent finale for our event, with lovely views and a stunning course & layout. The previous host of many top-end Asian events (including The Match at Mission Hills, featuring Tiger Woods v Rory McIlroy), the Blackstone course was
In the week-long Aggregate Stableford event, there were some solid performances throughout. Congratulations to Drew Hallam, who led from wire to wire, blitzing the field to take A Grade honours with 146 points. Next best were Shane Hazell on 132, and Geoff Steer on 131.
In B Grade, it was Ian Jolliffe taking the bikkies with 143, over Arvin Kumar on 128 and Mark Stephenson on 124.
In C Grade, it was Mark Rice on top with 122, followed by Ian Steer and Carl Rutledge, both on 113.
More photos and details can be found on the Social Golf Australia webpage.