Colin Montgomerie and Corey Pavin took time out of their busy schedules promoting The Ryder Cup at the Volvo China Open to take part in a tree planting ceremony at Suzhou Jinji Lake Golf Club.
The two Ryder Cup Captains joined Chinese golfer Zhang Lianwei to plant three Osmanthus Fragrans (Sweet Olive) trees as part of the host club’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Suzhou Jinji Lake Golf Club is seeking to become the first golf club in China to receive accreditation from the Golf Environment Organisation (GEO).
Both European Captain Montgomerie and United States Captain Pavin have been using their trip to China to sew the seeds of interest in the Ryder Cup in Asia but they also recognise the importance golf can play in helping the environment.
Montgomerie said: “Combining my Ryder Cup captaincy, my playing career and my golf course design business, environmental considerations are more important than ever across the spectrum of golf and I am delighted, along with Corey, to support this tree-planting initiative here at Jinji Lake International Golf Club.
“I know how important the environment has always been and continues to be for the Volvo brand and to have the Volvo China Open take place at a sustainable venue is vitally important.”
Jonathan Smith, CEO of the Golf Environment Organisation said: “The Golf Environment Organisation is delighted to have been involved in this programme demonstrating a clear commitment to improving environmental and social awareness, understanding and golf management practices in China.
“We hope this collaboration will be the first of many, as GEO seeks to support golf around the world with credible and meaningful environmental initiatives which meet and exceed modern day expectations."
