Vietnamese debutants seek memorable showing at Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship  02:47, 28/10/2026

The teenage trio are eager to shine at the 17th edition of the region’s most prestigious amateur Championship, where Vietnam’s best finish was a tie for fifth by Le Khanh Hung in Dubai last year.

“It's special, very special,” said Anh Huy. “I unfortunately missed it last year due to some injuries but I'm very happy to be here this week. It's an amazing venue. It's probably the best course atmosphere I’ve ever played. Views are stunning. Really excited play the AAC for the first time and see where I stack up against the region's best.”

With 16 holes set against the Pacific Ocean, Anh Huy knows that managing the elements will be critical to a strong performance this week. Thailand’s Fifa Laopakdee is the defending champion, while the stellar field also includes China’s Zhou Zhiqin, the Philippines’ Jaden Dumdumaya, Japan’s Taisei Nagasaki and Australia’s Harry Takis.

“If I can have the wind be my friend and play around it instead of trying to fight it, then I think I'll be able to shoot good numbers. If I stay patient, keep trying to focus on my processes instead of thinking too much about the score, I think it will be a good week,” said Anh Huy.

With the Asia-Pacific Amateur champion earning coveted invitations to the Masters Tournament and The Open next year, Anh Huy knows a successful week in New Zealand could be a career-defining achievement and help accelerate the growth of golf in Vietnam.

“I think when it's that big, you can't really ignore it. You've just got to use it as motivation. Therefore, each shot really matters because you can get a spot at the Masters and The Open. It just adds more motivation and intention to each shot. Just got to use it to fuel my performance instead of letting it hinder it,” said Anh Huy, who has recorded three top-10 finishes this year.

“I think it would be great for people to realise how good golf (in Vietnam) is getting, how good our development is getting, our courses and facilities in Vietnam, which is getting really good. I think it would be the opportunity of a lifetime.”

Tuan Anh, 17, has also recorded three top-10 finishes this year and represented the International Team at last month’s Junior Presidents Cup. He believes patience will be key to a successful week at Te Arai Links.

“This course is a tough course because the green is firm. I’ll just try to play my game and wait for some luck,” he said. “Every golfer in the world dreams to play a major like the Masters or The Open. But if you want to play well this week, don't think about that. Just try to play your game. Stay patient, and happy.”

Having won three junior events at home, Van Hoa is ready to test his game against the region’s leading amateurs.

“Feels so good. Over the years, I have watched the tournament. It makes me work hard to compete in this event,” he said.

“Hopefully this week I can play good golf.”