Coach named top seed in Open

Australian coach Shane Barr has been seeded number one for next week's $100,000 Coca-Cola South China Open at King's Park.

The 27-year-old Barr was a leading player on the junior circuit before injuries prevented him from attempting a career on the professional circuit.

Barr is in Hong Kong working with a stable of coaches headed by former Hong Kong Davis Cup player Andy Brothers.

Current Davis Cup player Pang Lui is the second seed in the men's singles while defending champion and Hong Kong number one John Hui is not competing this year as he is studying overseas.

The tournament actually started more than a month ago, with 395 players entering the men's singles.

Only 16 remain with all seeded players earning a first-round bye.