Hsieh made Taiwan's golfer of the year

Veteran Hsieh Min-nan (謝敏男) was chosen as Taiwan's golfer of the year yesterday at an award ceremony in Taipei, provoking fears that the country's golfing youngsters are in short supply.

In announcing its decision the Golf Association of the ROC praised the 61-year-old Hsieh for his recent run of good form and long-term service to the game.

Ho Chi-ming (何既明), the vice president of Taiwan's golfing association said, "The standards for selecting the award nominees rest on their consistent efforts made toward golf, their current year's performance and individual sportsmanship."

Questions were raised, however, over whether the choice of journeyman Hsieh, rather than a rising star, could suggest the country has a dearth of new talent.

After accepting the award, Hsieh said there was some truth in the criticism and that the situation had to be remedied.

He said, "Young players haven't improved that much. In particular there is a need for more corporate support."

Hsieh has been a professional golfer for 36 years and said that part of the reason his contribution had been recognized was because of his support for young players.

He has already started a foundation that coaches youngsters and said he would continue to promote the game among youths.

Hsieh claimed the Japan Grand Senior tournament last year and has won a career total of 45 events.

The Taiwan Acer Golf Open starts at the end of the month.