Gareth Maybin was expecting to suffer a few first tee nerves as he got his European Tour season under way at the Hong Kong Open.

The Challenge School graduate from Ballyclare is determined not just to make up the numbers this week. His aim is to make the cut then start the process of earning enough to be sure of his place amongst the elite for next year.

Maybin is one of three Ulstermen in the field this week but it won’t be long before the number swells to six with Jonny Caldwell and Michael Hoey gaining their cards this week.

That’s a huge boost for Maybin who has forged a great friendship with Hoey since the pair qualified for the finals of the World Cup together in China last year.

Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell are in the Hong Kong field and McIlroy has his sights on at least another top ten finish as he continues his ascent up the world rankings.

His fourth place finish in Singapore last week has moved him up to 63rd, within touching distance of the top 50 and a place at next April’s Masters.

McDowell is joint favourite with many bookmakers this week alongside defending champion Miguel-Angel Jiminez.

At Fanling 12 months ago the Ulsterman had four rounds of 68 or better in finishing fourth.

Nick Faldo has been in bullish form, making his first major public appearance since the Ryder Cup in a rare appearance with his clubs.

“The last time I won this event was 2005 when I won the Pro-Am,” the 51-year-old said. “And I’ve just won the Pro-Am again.”