The inaugural 2014 EurAsia Cup was held this weekend at the Glenmarie Golf and Country Club in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Being held half way across the world, it was probably under the radar with the time zone differences as well as being held the same week as the Valero Texas Open. With the globalization of golf, a competition like this is a great way to expose the sport of golf in a growing golf region.
The captains of Team Europe and Team Asia were Miguel Angel Jiminez and Thongchai Jaidee. Many recognizable names including Graeme McDowell, Thomas Bjorn, Victor Dubuisson, Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano, Stephen Gallacher and Kiradech Aphibarnrat took part, but looking at the two teams on paper, we’re sure many thought Team Europe would run away with the competition.
This seemed to be the case – after the first day of competition, Team Europe swept all matches and led 5 – 0. After day 2, they added to their lead, going into the final day of single matches winning 7 – 3 over Team Asia. However, we were treated to some amazing golf and single matches! Team Asia won six of 10 single matches, halfing another two and losing only twice – both teams were tied with 9.5 points when the final match of the day between Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano and Hideto Tanihara reach the 18th hole. Both would make par and the match halved thus, forcing a 10-10 tie in the inaugural edition of the EurAsia Cup!
It was definitely an exciting end to the competition and a great way to grow the sport of golf – so much so that the next two editions of the EurAsia Cup will be played in Malaysia as well in 2016 and 2018!
Source: European Tour, EurAsia Cup
