SERI KEMBANGAN: American Trevor Simsby is looking calm and collected ahead of the IRS Prima Malaysian Open which begins at The Mines Resort and Golf Club tomorrow.
Simsby won the Malaysian Open when it was last held at the Kota Permai Golf and County Club in 2020. The tournament is only making its comeback this year after the Covid-19 pandemic.
Simsby, 31, has never competed at The Mines before but is already feeling comfortable after a few days of practice here.
"I've actually spent quite a bit of time in KL practicing and I know my way pretty well," said Simsby at the pre-tournament presser today.
"I really like the back nine, it is nice and there is excellent water (features) there. I really enjoy it, it kind of reminds me of Sentosa (Singapore).
"I think it will be a good test. It is nice to be back here in Malaysia after four years and I'm excited to get going.
"I have some good friends in KL so I feel comfortable which is nice. I love the people here and I feel kind of at home when I'm back here."
Meanwhile, Hong Kong's rising star Taichi Kho, 23, is hoping to continue his steady rise up the ranks but is wary not place too much pressure on himself.
Taichi won the World City Championship and gold at the Hangzhou Asian Games last year in addition to a number of top-10 finishes which earned him the Asian Tour Rookie of the Year award.
"My only expectation for this season is to learn and grow week by week," said Taichi during the same press conference.
"I have some great experiences from last year and want to build on that.
"I don't have any specific goals this year, I just want to get better each week. If I am able to do that I will be happy."
In addition to the US$1 million (RM4.78 million) prize purse, there is much more at stake for the players at the Malaysian Open.
The three leading finishers this weekend, who are not already exempted before the closing date for entries of The Open, will qualify to play in the tournament which will be held at Royal Troon on July 14-21.