The 2008 Taiwan Masters Golf Tournament is going to start from this September 18th. This tournament - well respected by players and widely welcomed by galleries – has, in the past 22 years, always been played in the same golf course at the same time of year with the same main sponsor giving the financial supports. During these 22 years of time we witness the wax and wane of Taiwanese golf world – we have to admit that we no longer have world class players and the only one international tournament held on this island is Taiwan Masters. Luckily, as the years pass the vitality of the tournament increases hand in hand with maturity, while every innovation made has been built in into the tradition. We are quite aware of our responsibility as we know the sad situation the Taiwanese golf world presently faces will see the brighter future only if Taiwan Masters Golf Tournament persevere.

We have some good news to share though. Our main sponsor Mercuries Group had the honor of receiving Elite Award from Sports Council, Executive Yuan which recognizes Mercuries Group’s contribution to elevate the national sports levels by promoting golf, mini-marathon and slow-pitch baseball games for decades. Also this is the first time we accept sizable amount of donation from the sponsor other than Mercuries Group. I think this echoes the fact that we have more sympathizers and advocators now and wish this eventually leads to more supporters and sponsors actively participate in this event.

I have yet to repeat what I have been repeatedly saying in the past 20 years. We are so grateful for the supports given by the board of directors as well as all the members of Old Tamsui in extending gladly any necessary helps we ask while preparing the course settings. We sincerely and especially thank for the generosity of Mercuries Group for its continuous financial support. I fully understand and realize that the success of this tournament owes a lot to all those volunteers and working staffs who dedicatedly and silently exert their utmost to make the tournament run smoothly and effectively.

May every player perform well and hope all the galleries enjoy the tournament!!