Weather-hit World City C'ship reduced to 54 holes

Hong Kong: Taichi Kho's bid to become the first player from Hong Kong to win an Asian Tour event and qualify for The Open was temporarily put on hold after organisers announced yesterday that the World City Championship would be reduced to 54 holes.

Lightning and rain stopped yesterday's third round at 11.48am local time at the Hong Kong Golf Club and play was unable to restart again as the inclement weather persisted.

Tournament leader Kho was playing the third when the siren halted play. He has a four-shot lead over playing partner Miguel Tabuena from the Philippines. Kho had started the day with a two-shot advantage but that became five when he made birdie on the first against Tabuena's double. The Filipino bounced back with a birdie on the following hole.

Only three groups were able to complete their third rounds yesterday, meaning 63 players will recommence this morning at 8.05am.

"After careful consideration we have decided to reduce the World City Championship presented by the Hong Kong Golf Club to 54 holes, because of the inclement weather today and the forecast for it to continue tomorrow," said Chokchai Boonprasert, Tournament Director, Asian Tour.

"The course, including the bunkers and approach areas, were waterlogged, after the heavy downpour. This is obviously unfortunate, and we feel very sorry for all the fans who made the trip here today, but it was the only sensible course of action."

Kho only turned professional this year.

A gripping final day is expected today as he attempts to produce one of the greatest performances by a Hong Kong sports person.

Korean Seo Yo-Seop, Thailand's Jazz Janewattananond and Suradit Yongcharoenchai and New Zealander Michael Hendy are next best placed, six behind Kho.