Shanghai: The bitter cold did little to deter Silport members from contesting the start of the second year of the monthly medal competition as the January edition attracted 30 hardy souls.

Perhaps feeling the need to warm up a bit, literally, Jiang Ruichang played nine holes before the start of the medal and such preparation made all the difference. Playing over the North and West courses under sunny but cool conditions, the 16 handicap proved in fine form come competition time as he shot a 16-over 88 for a nett 72 to earn the nett champion honor in group A (handicaps 1-18).

Ten-handicap Kuze Kenichi shot an 85 for a nett 75 and the group A nett runner-up. The day proved memorable for the Japan native as he was also the lucky draw winner, receiving a two-day trip to Lijiang, Yunnan province, as his prize.

Jurgen Fritz emerged nett champion of group B (handicaps 19 group and above) when the 21 handicap carded a 96 for a nett 75. Ito Hiroshi was runner-up in the group.

Fritz and Jiang both qualify for the year-end grand monthly medal competition later in the year to determine the second club champion.

Tu Ye Weilin, the youngest Silport member, served notice 2009 could be his breakout year. With his older brother and father also club members, the 13-year-old Tu unleashed a 260-yard blast on the West Course ninth hole to earn the long-drive prize. His proud father later presented his son with his prize at the award dinner afterwards.

Kong Qi claimed the nearest-the-pin prize when he put his ball to within 4.2 feet of the cup on the North Course sixth hole.

As its title implies, the monthly medal is a competition strictly for Silport members. All club members are welcome to participate in this event designed to bring members together in a competitive situation. We look forward to seeing you.