Schmidt-Curley Design Begins Prepping Mission Hills for WGC-HSBC Champions


Schmidt-Curley Design has begun work on Mission Hills Guangdong's Olazabal Course for the WGC-HSBC Champions, November 1-4.

In anticipation of record galleries, Schmidt-Curley is clearing prime spectator areas of trees and converting their slopes to turf. These changes will be most evident behind the green of the reachable par-5 15th hole. Once completed, hundreds of spectators will be able to sit atop a large knoll and look directly back at players as they execute the all-or-nothing carry over a huge expanse of lake.

To facilitate a two-tee start, a new putting green and staging area is also being built near the 10th tee. Expansion of the practice range, including incorporation of a grassed gallery slope, is another project on the docket.

"We're excited to embark on this work in advance of the HSBC Champions," says Brian Curley. "These tweaks to the Olazabal Course are sure to impress players and spectators alike and add to the overall impressiveness of Mission Hills."

Opened in 2004 and host of the World Cup of Golf from 2007-09, the Olazabal Course is a collaborative effort between Schmidt-Curley and two-time Masters champion Jose Maria Olazabal. Views of forest and natural streams create backdrops throughout a round. Numerous deep and treacherous bunkers and undulating, Paspalum fairways are also hallmarks of the par-72, 7,320-yard layout.

The HSBC Champions is one of four World Golf Championships. Sanctioned and organized by the International Federation of PGA Tours, it annually features an exceptionally strong field. Past winners include Phil Mickelson (twice), Sergio Garcia and Martin Kaymer. The 2012 edition will have a $7 million purse.

Nearly 40 Schmidt-Curley courses, many critically acclaimed, have opened in China over the past decade.

For more information, visit www.schmidt-curley.com or call 480/483-1994.