Shanghai: Only a year after taking up the game, Star Sun proved that practice does make perfect when he partnered with Feng Ling Ling to win the fifth annual Silport Best Partner Membership Tournament.

The Shanghai resident started playing golf during the height of the SARS epidemic that plagued China early last year as he was bored and had nothing to do. His regime of playing at various golf courses around town and daily practice sessions at local driving ranges quickly resulted in a low handicap.

Playing with partner Feng in a best ball situation under wet conditions, the pair registered three birdies on the back nine of the Championship layout for a gross 69 to win Silport’s second members’ tournament of the year. In addition, they only needed 22 putts, tying for the lowest number on the day. For their feat, they received clothing from Thomas Pink, Ballantine’s Whisky and a crystal trophy.

Li Jian Zhang and Chen Wong Mei finished runner-up with a one-under 71 while members Gu Hong Ren and Wang Juan were second runner-up with a gross 73.

Members Lai Kai-kee and Rebecca Koo Suk-ching of Hong Kong won the best-dressed competition among the 130-player field. In addition, they placed runner-up in the lowest putts competition with 24.

As each team was only able to claim one prize, the pairing of Shi Jie Lin and Miss Jin who carded a gross 93, won the lowest putts competition with 24.

Following the tournament, the participants were treated to live entertainment from a Latin band in the upstairs’ restaurant and the prize presentation from the main sponsors, Electrolux, Thomas Pink and Ballantine’s Whisky.