MACAO - The International Series Macau was set to bring world-class golfers back to the Macao Golf and Country Club Thursday through Sunday, organizers said in a press conference on Wednesday.

US defending champion John Catlin, who carded a historic 59 on his way to a playoff victory last season, noted he was looking forward to competing and trying to hoist the hardware again. "To have a chance on that back nine on Sunday, that's my main focus," he said.

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Taichi Kho from Hong Kong, China, said that having so many local players this week and the major champions alongside motivated him. "It is going to be a great week, and my game feels good," he added.

The press conference was followed by a special ceremonial tee shot on the first tee and a lion dance ceremony, which officially launched this year's tournament.

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A cheque of $25,000 was presented by The International Series to Macao Special Olympics at the ceremony as part of its commitment to support host destinations and help the development of sport across the broader community in Macao.