With record galleries expected when the World Golf Championship HSBC Champions event moves to the Mission Hills Guangdong resort this November, design firm Schmidt-Curley has begun preparatory work on the resort’s Olazabal course, which will host the tournament.

Because of the expectation of large crowds, Schmidt-Curley is clearing prime spectator areas of trees and converting their slopes to turf. These changes will be most evident behind the green of reachable par five fifteenth. Once completed, hundreds will be able to sit on a large knoll and look directly back at players trying to make the carry over a large lake.

To facilitate a two tee start, a new putting green and staging area is also being built near the tenth tee. Expansion of the practice range, including incorporation of a grassed gallery slope, is another project on the docket.

“These tweaks to the Olazabal course are sure to impress players and spectators alike and add to the overall impressiveness of Mission Hills,” said Brian Curley.