Stars line up for CJ Invitational

October 9, 2013. The Asian Tour champions hailing from more than 15 nations will contend at the CJ Invitational in a bid to dethrone the tournament host and defending champion, K.J. Choi at Haesley Nine Bridges Golf Club this Thursday.

Korean star Choi will be aiming for a hat trick victory at the CJ Invitational but will face strong challenges from more than 30 Asian Tour winners who will make their way to the US$750,000 Asian Tour event.

The big challengers will include, current Asian Tour number one Kiradech Aphibarnrat of Thailand, Indian star Gaganjeet Bhullar, Rikard Karlberg of Sweden, a two-time Asian Tour winner and the big-hitting Scott Hend of Australia will feature at the Haesley Nine Bridges Golf Club.

[highlight] Korean star Choi will be aiming for a hat trick victory at the CJ Invitational but will face strong challenges from more than 30 Asian Tour winners who will make their way to the US$750,000 Asian Tour event [/highlight]

An in-form Pariya Junhasavasdikul of Thailand, Berry Henson of the United States, Baek Seuk-hyun of Korea, who ranks sixth on the Order of Merit and Angelo Que of the Philippines are also in the elite field.

The CJ Invitational Hosted by KJ Choi will be the final event for the leading players on the Asian Tour Order of Merit to qualify for the WGC-HSBC Champions in China later this month.

Australia’s Scott Hend, after his win at Taiwan has ascended to No.2 on the Order of Merit, will try to retain his winning form at region’s premier Tour that is celebrating its 10th season in 2013.

Known for his stylish attacking style of play, Hend will be among the top favourites to contend at the CJ Invitational Hosted by KJ Choi after he finished tied fifth last season.

“My best form of defence is attack. I’m an aggressive golfer and I play better when I’m aggressive. I guess I’m just lucky that when I’m in position, I can make the birdies and give myself a chance to win,” said Hend.

The 40-year-old Australian is one of the most successful international players on the Asian Tour. He has always finished within top-30 on the Order of Merit since 2007. He was adjudged the longest hitter on the Asian Tour in 2009, 2010 and 2012.

The Indian challenge also includes return of seasoned golfer,Jyoti Randhwa and 10th ranked on the Asian Tour,  Anirban Lahiri.