Tsai Chi Huang from Chinese Taipei scored an even par final round of 72 to take the top spot in the Volvo China Open's mid China Qualifying competition at Shanghai Silport Golf Club. He earns a coveted place alongside the likes of defending champion Paul Casey and other top European Tour players in the final field for the US$1.8 million Open at Beijing Honghua Golf Club from April 13-16.

A former Taiwan Open champion, Tsai's two round total of four over par 146 was a comfortable four shots ahead of second placed Wang Lei. Third and final qualifying spot was won by Liu Xin in a sudden death play off.

Starting three shots ahead after the first round, the 37-year-old Tsai looked in full control as he increased his lead to five shots after the first five holes. Although he dropped shots at the ninth and 12th holes and double-bogeyed the 15th, he offset these with birdies at the 13th and 18th and was never really threatened.

"I'm really happy that I was given a chance to enter for the qualifying in Silport this time," said a delighted Tsai. "This competition clearly shows the kindness and consideration of the Volvo China Open for us Chinese. Last time I was at the Open was in 1998, but only as a spectator. I have high hopes to do well in Beijing as I scored 67 in my practice round, so I know what I can do."

Wang Lei, based at Qingdao International Golf Club in Shandong, had a nightmare start with three bogeys in the first six holes but held his game together by completing the remaining 12 holes in one under par for a 74 and a two round total of 151.

Big-hitting Liu Xin birdied the 18th in a sudden death play off with David Lee of Sunisland to claim the final qualifying spot at Silport. The Shanghai International Country Club-based pro demonstrated his prodigious length off the tee at the par five 554 yards long hole, playing his second shot from just 180 yards out.

The north China qualifying competition will be played at Beijing CBD International Golf Club on April 4-5 where three spots are available for the Volvo China Open.

(China Daily March 31, 2006)