2007 Asian Tour number one Liang Wenchong believes that the current generation of golfing talents in China will make an impression on the international stage if they continue to play to the best of their abilities.

Liang has long been very supportive of the growth and development of golf in China and has been encouraged by the performances of young Chinese talents at last week's Volvo China Open.

"I feel that the standard of golf in China is steadily improving. We just have to look at the performances of Chinese players like Li Chao and Kang-chun this week to know that we are catching up," said Liang.

"It is really good to see these young players doing well. It bodes well for the future of golf in China," added Liang, who became the second mainland Chinese after fellow compatriot Zhang Lian-wei to have played in this month's prestigious Masters Tournament.

While golf is still not as widely popular as other sports such as basketball and football in China, Liang believes that golf will eventually command the same attention as these other sports if Chinese players continue to do well.

"It's great that we have events like this Volvo China Open in China. It means a lot to Chinese golfers like us as it helps elevate the game," said Liang.

A total of 25 Chinese players competed at the 2.2 million U.S. dollars event sanctioned by the Asian Tour, European Tour and China Golf Association. Four Chinese players have made the cut which was set at four-over par.

"If we continue to do well, more people will get to know the game better and we'll be able to further raise the profile of golf here," he added.

(Xinhua News Agency April 23, 2008)