The inaugural Angkor Four-Ball Championships will take to the greens, with today’s practice session followed by competitive rounds in the next two days at the award-winning Sir Nick Faldo-designed Angkor Golf Resort in Siem Reap.

As many as 60 players forming male, female and mixed pairs from around the globe will go head to head for the coveted title and slew of prizes on offer, including the best gross and net scores along with the best scores in either round.

The contesting pair selects its best score to count on each hole and the duo with the lowest 36-hole gross score will be crowned champions.

The gross prize will be fiercely contested, with a number of top amateur golfers teaming up. Among the favourites are the British pairing of Tony Pike and Owen Lloyd, playing off scratch and one handicap respectively. Last year’s Angkor Amateur Open Champion Amish Jaitha (one handicap) is returning with partner Khusaal Thackersey (four handicap) and local favourite LY Hong, playing off a five handicap (pictured, supplied), is teaming up with Tan Savun.

“The Angkor Amateur Open is now into its seventh year and has regularly been over-subscribed. Therefore, it made sense to add a new event to the calendar,’’ AGR’s director of golf David Baron said yesterday.

“The better ball format is always fun and perhaps a little more relaxed than a standard stroke play, but it’s a format you don’t see too much of in this region. Joining as a team enables participants to travel and play tournament golf with an old friend or strategically picked partner. Either way, it all adds to the camaraderie of the event,” he said.

“We are pleased with the response to our first pairs championship. We have a strong field of local and international players, which gives us a great platform to build on.

“Jim Gubricky and his team have once again prepared the course immaculately. It’s important to us that the players not only experience a professionally organised event but they enjoy their overall stay in Siem Reap.’’

The event is being supported by a host of sponsors including Tiger Beer, Coca-Cola and Hard Rock Cafe. Meanwhile, Raffles Grand D’Angkor will be providing top class food and drinks.

Luxury golf holidays are on offer, provided by Raffles Grand D’Angkor, Anantara and Park Hyatt, and golf equipment provided by Fenix Golf and Volvik. Other sponsors include Ezecom, PSD Travel and Cambodia Angkor Air.