Els wary of growing Asian golf power

JEJU, South Korea: Three-time major winner Ernie Els, seeking his first victory in 2009, has highlighted the growing strength of Asian golf as he gears up for the Ballantine's Championship here this week.

The South African will face tough competition from the heavyweight field, which includes former world No 1 Fred Couples, Sweden's Henrik Stenson, Lee Westwood and defending champion Graeme McDowell.

US player Anthony Kang will be looking to extend his lead at the top of the Asian Tour's Order of Merit in the 2.1-million-euro (2.7-million-dollar) event, also sanctioned by the European Tour, but faces competition from challengers Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand and Indian ace Jyoti Randhawa.