Tenniel Chu

Tenniel Chu loves golf, but he has little time to hit the links – he’s too busy working on expanding the game throughout China.

Chu, a 1999 graduate of University of Toronto Scarborough, is vice-chairman of the Mission Hills Group, which operates the largest golf club in the world.

"The U of T has a very strong connection with the global community and with its alumni. I think this is the most rewarding and differentiating point for me when comparing the university to other institutions."

After graduating with a degree in economics, Chu joined Mission Hills in 2001 and set about putting it on the international map. In an interview with U of T Magazine he said, “we want to make Mission Hills the golfing capital of not only China, but also the world.”

Mission Hills China, owner and operator of Mission Hills Shenzhen and Mission Hills Resort Hainan, is a key player in the country’s fledgling sports and leisure industry. The Mission Hills brand encompasses several sub-brands, including Mission Hills Golf Clubs, Mission Hills Residences, as well as Mission Hills Hotels & Resorts. It is also the host, promoter and underwriter of several major golf tournaments, including the Omega Mission Hills World Cup and the Mission Hills Star Trophy. The company employs approximately 14,000 people across its two operations.

In early 2012, Chu joined the OneAsia tour as the Secretary-General, which runs national opens in five countries – Australia, China, Indonesia, Korea and Thailand.  He works with national governing bodies, professional golf associations, tournament sponsors and resort owners to develop more events.

Chu often meets other U of T graduates during his travels, and he is impressed with the incredible network of alumni. “I do feel the bond, the closeness of people working together [to promote their alma mater abroad]”.

Published Nov. 28, 2013.