By a Correspondent
It is with a heavy heart that the Asian Tour announces the loss of Kyi Hla Han – our former Tour number one and Executive Chairman, and one of the most iconic figures in Asian golf.
Kyi Hla passed away on Saturday afternoon in Singapore due to complications with cancer treatment. He was 61 years old.
“There are few words to express the loss that everyone at the Asian Tour is feeling at the moment,” said Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner & CEO of the Asian Tour.
“First and foremost, our heartfelt condolences and prayers go out to his family at this very difficult time. “We are all only just processing the news as we recently saw him at the SMBC Singapore Open in January.
“Asian golf has lost one of its greatest players, its greatest personalities, and its greatest leaders. We will forever remember Kyi Hla.”
Kyi Hla turned professional in 1980 and enjoyed a 25-year playing career that saw him win on 12 occasions, most notably in the 1994 Singapore Open and the Volvo China Open in 1999, the year he claimed the Merit list.
He also represented Myanmar in five World Cups.
He would become equally as well known for his executive role in shaping the Tour after retiring from competitive golf in 2004 and assuming the role of Executive Chairman in 2006.
He was the first Asian to hold this position and by drawing on two and a half decades of experience he successfully led the Tour for over 10 years.
Mentor
Added Cho: “On a personal note, Kyi Hla was a mentor to many of us within the management of the Asian Tour and was a massive influence in many of our lives and careers.
“He always put the Asian Tour and its members first and was ultra-passionate about seeing Asian golf rise up on to the world stage.
“We will strive to continue his legacy and make him proud of the Asian Tour that he devoted his life to.”
A true flag-bearer for Asian golf, but outside of golf he was laidback, funny and very popular.
Charismatic beyond words, he always had time for anyone who needed advice, and everyone was welcome in his home. He loved his family, music and the great outdoors.
“Early reaction to the news from around the world has been overwhelming,” said Asian Tour Board member Dominique Boulet and a close friend.
“It is a true indication of the tremendous impression he left on everyone he met. Small in stature but with a big game and a bigger heart, he was the best, most loyal, supportive and generous friend a man could ever ask for!
“His eternal optimism and laughter is a loss to us all.”
Speaking to the Asian Tour last year on the eve of his 60th birthday, Kyi Hla said: “I had wanted to be a pro golfer since I was 10 years old.
“I’ve been very fortunate to pursue a sport that I loved. Traveling all over the world, meeting new people, making so many friends, and playing a lot of great tournaments and golf courses.”
The Tour will be creating a Kyi Hla Han Future Champion Award in his honour to aid the development of juniors and the sport of golf in Asia. (courtesy asiantour.com)
Condolences pour in
Encapsulating the outpouring of sorrow at the news was Indian golf legend and two-time Asian Tour number one, Jeev Milkha Singh.
Tweeted Jeev: ”Extremely saddened by the news of Kyi Hla Han. He has been a dear friend of mine for many, many years.
“An amazing golfer, and an even better human being. He knew how to enjoy his life on and off the golf course. Thanks for making our lives better Kyi Hla. #RIP”
Asian Tour veteran Scott Hend of Australia said, “We 1st met 2002 at the China Open, I was bemused with u having 2 putters in the bag whilst we played.
“…I will miss our discussions on the Golf World and other things. RIP my Mate.”
Well-known golf commentator Dougie Donnelly said, “Very sad news. I will always remember how welcoming Kyi Hla and @DomBoulet were when I first started travelling to Asia.
“We had so many laughs on our frequent nights out-and Kyi Hla loved to laugh! Condolences to his family and many friends on the @asiantourgolf.”
Europe’s 2018 Ryder Cup-winning captain Thomas Bjorn tweeted, “This is real sad news. Kyi Hla, I will miss your friendly ways and our great discussions. Gone way too soon. Rest in peace my friend.”
Also read: Asian Tour gets bigger with International Series, larger payouts
Discover more from Tee Time Tales
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.