HSBC Champions switched to Mission Hills

The $US7 million WGC-HSBC Champions golf tournament will be played at a new venue this year for the first time in the prestigious event's seven-year history, organisers said on Wednesday.

Mission Hills, Guangdong, China, will host the 2012 event -- one of Asia's richest golf tournaments -- on its Olazabal Course between October 29 and November 4.

The previous seven titles, which have been won by household names including Sergio Garcia, Phil Mickelson and Martin Kaymer, were held at Sheshan International Golf Club in Shanghai.

PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem said in comments released by the organisers: "I have been to Mission Hills Guangdong on numerous occasions, and I know that the 2012 HSBC Champions will be an outstanding success there."

The International Federation of PGA Tours gave no reason for the switch to the 7,320 yard course designed by two-time Masters champion Jose Maria Olazabal.

Photo: Lee Westwood of England during the final round of the WGC-HSBC Champions at Sheshan International Golf Club, November 2011 (Photosport)