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Rookies from China look to make it big
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SportsDesk on 15 May, 2008 12:29:50
 
Beijing: Little-known Shang Lei and Wu Ashun may not be regularly hitting
fairways and greens on the Asian Tour but these Chinese rookies are hell-bent on
emulating the success of Zhang Lian-wei and Liang Wen-chong.
Shang and Wu have endured a baptism by fire in their quest for glory across the
region since earning playing rights through the gruelling qualifying school in
Malaysia last December.
While delighted that they are finally rubbing shoulders with Asia’s best,
their records so far are not impressive. Shang has missed the cut in all of his
seven appearances. Wu has enjoyed a slightly better record with a tied 36th
finish.
Despite the lack of early success, the duo are determined to scale new heights
in their quest to emulate trailblazers Zhang and Liang. "I was really happy to
make it through the qualifying school. There were so many good players there and
it was quite a challenge," said Shang, who turned professional in 2003. "But now
that I’ve made it through, I am looking forward to greater exposure outside of
China. By joining the Tour, I have the opportunity to play on different courses
and different countries which create different challenges."
While he respects Zhang and Liang, Shang idolises world No. 1 Tiger Woods.
"Tiger is my favourite player. You can find weaknesses in other players but when
Tiger is competing, he is solid in every aspect."
Compatriot Wu, who turned professional last season, shares a similar sentiment
to Shang. "I was overjoyed when I made it through qualifying school. I made the
cut in my first ever tournament at the Sail Open which was a great start for
me," said Wu. (AFP)