Emirates to sponsor Hong Kong Open again

Hong Kong: The UBS Hong Kong Open 2008 will be sponsored by Emirates airline for the fourth year running.

This year also marks the golf tournament's 50th edition and the it will be staged from November 20 to 23 at the Hong Kong Golf Club in Fanling.

The US$2.5 million tournament has attracted big names from the world of golf including Jose Maria Olazabal and Bernhard Langer, European Ryder Cup captain Nick Faldo and Scotland's Colin Montgomerie.

Last year's winner Miguel Angel Jimenez will be also be in Hong Kong to defend his crown.

Chinese golfer Liang Wenchong and compatriot Zhang Lianwei will also be teeing off on November 20.

On the day before the Open begins a Pro-Am tournament will be held, which will raise cash for charity.

Edwin Lau, Emirates' Vice President of Hong Kong and China, said: "It is a great pleasure for Emirates to support the Hong Kong Open for the fourth year running in 2008, which is the 50th year this golf tournament has been held in Asia's world city.

"Common objectives and pursuits have made Emirates and this world-class event perfect partners.

"For Emirates, sports sponsorships are a long-standing means that has enabled us to interact with our customers and passengers even better, in an informal, enjoyable environment.

"This activity helps us fulfil our commitment to the community of Hong Kong and China, which constitute our most dynamic markets in the region."

The airline also sponsors other golf tournaments including The Dubai Desert Classic, Dubai Ladies Masters, Malaysian Open, BMW Asian Open and BMW International Open.