Norman plots design of 20 golf courses in China

Norman, known as the “Great White Shark” for his aggressive golf style and blond hair, is chasing 20 golf-course design leads in China, said Harley Kruse, an architect at Greg Norman Golf Course Design Co. Each course could attract a fee of more than US$1 million, Kruse said in an interview late Wednesday.

“When we get our boots down on golf course design, it opens up to every kind of deal we have, the wines, clothing line,” Norman, 54, said in an interview in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen. “China is the bright spot.”

The 1986 and 1993 British Open winner is among sports stars including swimmer Michael Phelps who are tapping China's increased sporting interest following the 2008 Beijing Olympics by investing in the country or endorsing products targeted to the local market. Chinese retail sales rose 15 percent in May, the fastest pace in four months, government data showed.

Norman is chief executive officer of Great White Shark Enterprises Inc., a closely held company that lists course design, apparel, golf equipment, wine and residential development among its activities. In recent years, he has focused more on business and less on golf.

The company plans to open offices in China in the next five months, and may establish a wine distribution partnership within a year, Kruse said. Norman previously designed courses at Mission Hills Golf Club in Shenzhen and Kai Kou Golf Club in Xiamen, where another Norman course is under construction.

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