As the European Tour stars roll into town with their caddies, most of their rivals on the Asian Tour will be relying on family members or one of the Shanghai Silport Golf Club's bag carriers.
The Open champion will receive a record cheque for US$333,330. His caddie will get a percentage, probably between 10 and 15 per cent, and a tip. But should the champion use one of the club caddies, his fee would be just 1,500 yuan, plus tip.
'We are not allowed to receive tips from members and guests, but we are permitted to enjoy a gift from the professionals in the Volvo China,' a club caddie said.
Ippei Fujimuro, the caddie for absent defending champion Jeev Milkha Singh, might feel the pinch by following him to the Masters. Fujimuro earned under US$5,000 for his work at Augusta, but stood to bank about US$50,000 had the Indian become the first to successfully defend his title.
'There is no set amount,' say Bertrand Cornut, caddie to Frenchman Christian Cevaer. 'It is up to each caddie to negotiate.'
Like many caddies, Cornut is an ex-pro, having had played on the European Challenge Tour.
'It certainly helps to have a professional insight, but out there you are coach, friend, adviser, psychologist, waiter, valet, the lot,' he said. 'Yardages are vital, and as an ex-pro I can suggest club selection.'