Sentosa, Singapore, July 10: The Asian Tour has announced details for its 2019 Qualifying School, which will be held in Thailand in November and December this year.

The Qualifying School comprises of two stages – the First Qualifying Stage and the Final Qualifying Stage. The Windsor Park & Golf Club continues to host the event, while the Lake View Resort & Golf Club in Hua Hin will return as a host venue for the first time in two years.

The First Qualifying Stage will be played over two different weeks. Players have the option of entering the First Qualifying Stage on the week commencing November 26, or the week commencing December 17. The top-placed players from the First Qualifying Stage will progress to the Final Qualifying Stage.

The Final Qualifying Stage will be held at the Lake View Resort & Golf Club from December 26 to 30. The event will be played over five rounds. The top 70 players (and ties) will play in the pivotal final round, which will be held on December 30. At the conclusion of the Qualifying School, the top-35 players (and ties) will earn their Tour cards for the 2019 season.

Aspiring Qualifying School applicants can either email to [email protected] to receive an entry form or download it from  www.wp-asiantour.ocs-sport.com/qschool.

The Asian Tour Qualifying School has been the springboard to success for many graduates not only on the Asian Tour but internationally too.

The illustrious alumni include Thongchai Jaidee and Kiradech Aphibarnrat of Thailand, Korea’s Noh Seung-yul, United States’ David Lipsky and Australian Scott Hend, who are all Asian Tour Order of Merit champions.

More recently, Australian Todd Sinnott won his maiden Asian Tour title in Myanmar two weeks after finishing second at the 2017 Qualifying School. American John Catlin, who earned his first Tour card via the 2015 Qualifying School, achieved a career breakthrough by capturing the Asia-Pacific Classic title in May and continued his winning run by capturing the Sarawak Championship last week.

Other Qualifying School graduates who have gone on to become champions include recently-crowned Panasonic Swing champion Shiv Kapur, two-time Asian Tour winner, rising global star Shubhankar Sharma as well as 2017 Asian Tour Rookie of the Year Micah Lauren Shin of the United States.

Graduates from the 2018 Qualifying School have benefited from the numerous playing opportunities on the Asian Tour this year, as more than 32 events have been planned on the growing schedule, including 15 full-field tournaments.

In addition, players who played in the Qualifying School are eligible to compete on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) which is the feeder circuit to the main Tour. The ADT, which offers Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) point, will sanction more than 22 events in 2018 with the leading seven players on the final ADT Order of Merit earning their Asian Tour card.

Asian Tour Chief Operating Officer, Cho Minn Thant said: “With the Asian Tour growing from strength to strength, we are expecting an enthusiastic response from international and regional golfers for the 2019 Qualifying School.”

“Evident from the success of its graduates, the Qualifying School has provided the ultimate platform for golfers to become champions both on the Asian Tour and the international stage. We look forward to welcoming more talented golfers to the Tour at our Qualifying School this December.”

Ends.

About Asian Tour

As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Rolex (Official Timekeeper), Panasonic (Official Consumer Electronics), Habitat for Humanity (Official Sustainable Development Partner), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), Titleist and FootJoy (Official Web Partner), Bloomberg TV (Official International Media Partner), Bloomberg Businessweek Chinese (Official International Media Partner), Wall Street Journal (Official International Media Partner) and Sentosa in Singapore which is the Home of the Asian Tour which also has an office in Kuala Lumpur.

Jakarta, Indonesia, July 10:  In-form Gaganjeet Bhullar of India will aim to lift the Bank BRI Indonesia Open trophy for an unprecedented third time when he tees off for the US$500,000 event on Thursday.

Bhullar, who won the prestigious tournament twice in 2013 and 2016, is looking to bank on his recent run of good form to contend for the title at the Bank BRI Indonesia Open, which will be held for the third consecutive year at the Pondok Indah Golf Course this week

The 30-year-old Bhullar has enjoyed a hot streak of late, finishing second twice in his last six starts on Tour this season. Having claimed three of his eight Asian Tour titles in Indonesia, Bhullar is hopeful of putting up another title run on his favourite hunting ground.

Sihwan Kim of the United States

Compatriot Chikkarangappa S., who marked his best result so far this season with a tied-11th place finish in Malaysia last week, will continue his chase for a breakthrough win on the Asian Tour when he makes his second appearance at the Bank BRI Indonesia Open. Sihwan Kim of the United States, the highest-ranked player in the 150-man field, will also continue to hunt for his maiden victory on the Asian Tour.

The 29-year-old American sits in seventh place on the latest Asian Tour Habitat for Humanity Standings, thanks to three top-five results in India, Japan and Thailand.

The Indonesia Open, which hails as the longest running golf tournament in the country, received a prize boost of US$200,000 for the 2018 edition. The co-sponsors for Bank BRI Indonesia Open are PLN, PERTAMINA, TELKOM Indonesia, Batik Air, WIKA, BRILife, BRIAgro, BRISyariah and BRINS.

Did You Know?

• Gaganjeet Bhullar became the youngest player, at the age of 29, to win eight Asian Tour titles when he emerged victorious at the Macao Open last year
• He claimed his Asian Tour breakthrough at the 2009 Indonesia President Invitational. Out of his eight victories, three were claimed in Indonesia, including the Indonesia Open in 2013 and 2016.
• Chikkarangappa S. is a two-time Asian Development Tour (ADT) champion.
• Placed 68th on the money list, Chikkarangappa needs a good showing to break into top-60 and secure his playing rights for the 2019 season.
• Sihwan Kim is the highest-ranked player on the Habitat for Humanity Standings at the Bank BRI Indonesia Open. He sits in seventh place with earnings of US$251,374 this year.
• Kim finished in the top-10 three times this season. He was third at the Hero Indian Open, tied-fourth at the Panasonic Open Golf Championship and tied-third at the Queen’s Cup presented by Bangchak.
• He came through the Asian Tour Qualifying School in 2017 and kept his card for the 2018 season by finishing within the top-61 of the Order of Merit list last year.

Players’ quotes:

Gaganjeet Bhullar (Ind)

The Pondok Indah Golf Course is one of my favourite venues and it has one of the best layouts on the Asian Tour. I clearly remember the win at the Indonesia Open back in 2016. It would be nice to win the tournament for the third time.

Indonesia is close to my heart. I’ve always been successful in the country as I’ve won here a total of three times. My first international win was in Indonesia back in 2009 and it seems that there’s something there in this country that attracts me.

Hopes are high this year. I’m playing well. I’m going to spend some time on the putting greens and read them properly today. Overall, I’m feeling comfortable playing golf.

In terms of my form, I’m striking the ball pretty well. I’m working on some technical parts of my swing and because of this, I’m delivering a lot of good results from the tee box and fairways to give myself a lot of good putts on the green. That was part of the plan, which is to hit the ball closer to the hole and hole lots of putts. I’m always trying to get better so that I can compete with these guys on Tour! It’s all in the process and I’m working hard. I’ve adapted to some changes but there’s more to do. I’m happy with my ball striking at the moment and the goal is to repeat what I’ve been doing.

This is definitely one of the best layouts on Tour. This course makes you think off the tee. Not every hole is ‘driveable’ and you have to use almost every club in your bag. Depending on how you play at that moment, you have to capitalise the opportunity.

Chikkarangappa S. (Ind)

I’ve played at the Pondok Indah Golf Course in 2016. It’s a very beautiful course. You need to have all the shots there. It’s not easy, but I’m looking forward to it.

I played well then, but I couldn’t compete in the Indonesia Open last year because of the hectic schedule and I needed to take a break. I’m glad to be here this year; even more so now that the prize purse has increased to US$500,000. Besides, it’s always good to play on a golf course where you get rewarded for good golf shots.

It’s a great event to start the second half of the year. I’m getting better every week. Now, you can see me playing with a smile on my face, as I convert those even-pars to under-pars. I’ve always done well in Indonesia. I retained my Asian Tour card for 2018 at the season-ender that was held in this country.

Sihwan Kim (Usa)

I’m feeling good about this tournament. I’ve been playing pretty well lately, although I need a little more work on my putting. I just need to sort that out and play with the confidence that I’ve been playing with. That will lead to a victory at some point in time I’m sure.

I consider myself a good putter, but not so much over the last month and a half. I’m hitting the ball very well, but I’m just not producing on the greens. I have to read the lines and control the speed better, and I’ll need to adapt to the conditions that differ at almost every Asian Tour event. I will have to make some putts and get my confidence back.

It’s my first time playing here at the Pondok Indah Golf Course. Hopefully, it’ll fit my eyes.

My season has gone pretty well so far and now that I’m in my second year, I’ve settled quite well on the Asian Tour. Beyond a victory on Tour which is my main goal, I hope to get a spot at the WGC-HSBC Champions as well the CIMB Classic. Being in the top-10 of the money list (Habitat for Humanity Standings) is great, but of course, everything can be better.

About Asian Tour

As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Rolex (Official Timekeeper), Panasonic (Official Consumer Electronics), Habitat for Humanity (Official Sustainable Development Partner), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), Titleist and FootJoy (Official Web Partner), Bloomberg TV (Official International Media Partner), Bloomberg Businessweek Chinese (Official International Media Partner), Wall Street Journal (Official International Media Partner) and Sentosa in Singapore which is the Home of the Asian Tour which also has an office in Kuala Lumpur.

Fiji, July 9: Zimbabwe’s Scott Vincent will add to the strong international flavor when the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways gets underway at the Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course next month. 

Vincent is the only Zimbabwean player on the Asian Tour and with the Fiji International being tri-sanctioned with the Asian Tour, ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia and European Tour again, the 26-year-old cannot wait to tee off against the breathtaking views of the Coral Coast.

“I’ve very good memories of Fiji and I absolutely love the place. You just feel a lot more relaxed when you go to a beautiful spot and that helps with your golf game. It’s like a vacation spot and a nice place to take the wife,” said Vincent, who will have his wife Kelsey on his bag in Fiji.

Vincent finished tied-ninth at the Fiji International last year and is hopeful of a better result this time around.

“I was able to put together some good rounds last year. Hopefully I can go and do the same again next month. I’ve been very consistent with my game. I’m trying to tighten up on a few things with my game and it’s starting to show a little bit now. It has given me the opportunity to be in position and have a chance on Sunday,” said Vincent.

 Vincent signalled his arrival in Asia when he came through the Asian Tour Qualifying School in 2016.

He was named the Rookie of the Year after ending his 2016 season in 28th position. The Zimbabwean finished 17th on the money list in 2017 to retain his card for 2018.

“The Asian Tour has played a huge role in my career and in the years to come, this is the Tour I would call home because this is where I started and has taken me places. I wouldn’t want to lose my Asian Tour card for anything,” said Vincent.

While Vincent has yet to secure his breakthrough, he has enjoyed five top-10s since the start of the year.

“It has been frustrating not being able to get over the finishing line so far. But I’m more excited about where my game’s heading. Obviously you would like to have that win taken care of. But as long as the game is moving in the right direction, I think I’m okay,” said Vincent.

The Fiji International will be headlined by former World Number one and one of Fiji’s greatest sportsmen Vijay Singh as well as four-time Major winner Ernie Els of South Africa.

About the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways

To be held from 2-5 August 2018 the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways will be played at Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course which boasts breathtaking views of the Coral Coast and is home to the Natadola Beach Land Estate.

Enticed by the tropical destination, the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways has attracted some of the world’s best golfers since its inaugural staging in 2014 including Fijian hero and three-time Major champion Vijay Singh, 2017 champion Jason Norris, 2016 champion Brandt Snedeker, 2015 champion Matt Kuchar, 2014 champion Steven Jeffress, Steven Bowditch, Boo Weekley and Nick Price. 

This year’s tournament is set to feature four-time Major champion and Captain of the International Team for the 2019 Presidents Cup, Ernie Els.

In 2018, the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways continues to have a global presence confirming its position as an integral tournament in the South Pacific region, with the tournament being tri-sanctioned by the European Tour, ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia and Asian Tour.

A Pacific paradise, the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways also boasts some of the most unique hospitality options in world golf with the par-3 8th hole providing the perfect vantage point to watch the golf, whilst socialising on the beach.

More than just a golf tournament, the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways aims to leave a lasting legacy for golf in the Pacific region, with the PGA of Australia supporting initiatives to introduce and grow the game in Fiji.

Owned by SEL and the PGA of Australia, the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways is proudly supported by the Fijian Government, Tourism Fiji and the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa as the official resort of the tournament.

Sentosa, Singapore, July 9: American John Catlin first set foot on the Asian Tour in 2015, armed only with copious amount of talent and a dream.

A dream to become the best golfer that he can be and win on the Asian Tour.

“It is crazy where life will take you. I remember landing in Bangkok and I don’t know where I’m going and I don’t even know where Hua Hin is but now I live there. It is pretty crazy,” said Catlin.

It was an arduous journey but a fulfilling one which would see Catlin win not once but twice on the Asian Tour this season.

The Sarawak Championship was the 27-year-old’s second Asian Tour victory in two months which catapulted him to 10th place on the Habitat for Humanity Standings.

“I always wanted to do great things ever since I was a little kid. Both my victories are equally awesome. You can’t really put one above the other,” said Catlin, who earned his maiden breakthrough at the Asia-Pacific Classic in China in May.

Life as an aspiring professional looking for his big break meant tightening the purse strings as he only made three cuts in eight starts on the Asian Tour in 2016 and had to switch his focus to the Asian Development Tour (ADT).

“I had to save a lot on the ADT because I didn’t have money to spend. We get like four of us with four golf bags in cab and would pack ourselves in the car just to save like five or 10 dollars.

“Sometimes four of us would be living in a room. It makes you work extra harder instead of going through that every week. You don’t want to stay there. That’s where you start and you want to work your way up from there. It has always spurred me on,” said Catlin.

Catlin found success on the ADT at the Combiphar Golf Invitational in Indonesia in November 2016. But having missed the grade at the 2017 Qualifying School, he would soldier on and eventually found his way back onto the main Tour with a second win and five other top-10s to finish third on the ADT money list.

The American’s sojourn on the Asian Tour has taken him to the length and breadth of the continent, each with a fascinating tale to tell.

“I’ve been to Dhaka, I never thought I would go and play four tournaments there. Going to India was pretty awesome and eye opening. I’ve also been to Pakistan, never did I think I would ever go to Pakistan but I had to for the ADT to finish inside the top-five on the Order of Merit and get my Asian Tour card,” said Catlin.

“In Pakistan I was a bit nervous. Coming out of the airport I was scared. I got through customs and everything fine. Then we saw 20 people and they were the nicest people we’ve ever met and I see this convoy with four or five armed vehicles.

“It was like the president is coming to town and we were in a bus and these vehicles escorted us to the hotel. That was pretty amazing, I’ve never been treated like that before in my life,” recalled Catlin, who is targeting another win at this week’s Bank BRI Indonesia Open.

India’s Shubhankar Sharma continues to take pole position on the Habitat for Humanity Standings with England’s Matt Wallace and Thailand’s Kiradech Aphibarnrat occupying second and third place respectively.

Top-20 players on the Habitat for Humanity Standings

Pos       Player   Order of Merit (US$)

1            Shubhankar SHARMA   (IND)                $589,575.00

2            Matt WALLACE   (ENG)                            $446,660.00

3            Kiradech APHIBARNRAT   (THA)           $360,737.14

4            Sanghyun PARK   (KOR)                           $295,660.39

5            Rahil GANGJEE   (IND)                             $290,425.53

6            Minchel CHOI   (KOR)                              $271,340.97

7            Sihwan KIM   (USA)                                  $251,373.77

8            Paul PETERSON   (USA)                           $241,148.57

9            Jazz JANEWATTANANOND   (THA)      $199,324.39

10          John CATLIN   (USA)                                 $183,191.66

11          Scott VINCENT   (ZIM)                             $176,289.85

12          Gaganjeet BHULLAR   (IND)                   $174,472.30

13          Berry HENSON   (USA)                             $155,033.66

14          Daniel NISBET   (AUS)                              $151,883.64

15          Panuphol PITTAYARAT   (THA)              $135,949.11

16          Khalin JOSHI   (IND)                                 $123,931.97

17          Hideto TANIHARA   (JPN)                       $123,306.08

18          Danthai BOONMA   (THA)                      $122,021.50

19          Prom MEESAWAT   (THA)                       $121,605.91

20          Shaun NORRIS   (RSA)                             $118,284.91

Singapore, July 9: Here are the 5 takeaways from the 2018 Sarawak Championship where John Catlin took home his second Asian Tour title.

1. John Catlin is the first player to win twice in 2018. It was also his second win in two months following his first Asian Tour title in China in May

2. The Sarawak Championship was the first time the Asian Tour visited the Borneo state in Malaysia. However Sarawak has been a regular stop on the Asian Development Tour (ADT). Interestingly, Catlin finished second at the Damai Golf and Country Club last year on the ADT.

3. Spaniard Javi Colomo enjoyed his first top-five finish on the Asian Tour since 2013. The last time he finished tied fifth was at the Hong Kong Open six years ago.

4. The Open bound Danthai Boonma and Jazz Janewattananond did not win the Sarawak Championship but their tied second place result will give them a huge confidence boost ahead of their Major debut next week.

5. Many of the Asian Tour stars visited Sarawak and the Damai Golf and Country Club for the first time. They were awed by the beauty of the Malaysian Borneo state and what it had to offer, just look at their photos below:

Sweet spot this week on the @asiantour. Let’s go feed the birds. #sarawakchampionship pic.twitter.com/HVbVQVRnrS

— Berry Henson (@BerryHenson) July 2, 2018

Great to be part of the Sarawak Championship, Malaysia on the @asiantourgolf this week, venue and all involved have been fantastic #thankyou #golf #asiantour #SarawakChampionship pic.twitter.com/ttL4jmvIQ9

— Jeev Milkha Singh (@JeevMilkhaSingh) July 5, 2018

Kuching, Malaysia, July 7: John Catlin of the United States sank a clutch birdie putt on the last hole to win his second Asian Tour title in a thrilling final round at the US$300,000 Sarawak Championship on Saturday. 

The 27-year-old held his nerve before rolling in a five-foot putt on the par-four 18th hole to edge his closest challengers Jazz Janewattananond of Thailand, Danthai Boonma and Paul Peterson of the United States by a single shot at the Damai Golf and Country Club.

There was very little breathing space for Catlin in the final round but he eventually prevailed after returning with a bogey-free six-under-par 66 for a 22-under-par 266 total in the inaugural Asian Tour event.

A fast charging Jazz birdied 16 and eagled 17 for a superb 64 to set the clubhouse target on 21-under before settling for second place with countryman Danthai (66) and overnight leader Peterson, who also birdied the last to finish with a 68.

With Jazz safely in the clubhouse, the Sarawak Championship looked likely to enter extra time before Catlin stepped up to sink the crucial putt under immense pressure.

Jazz failed to win back-to-back titles but the result will give him and Danthai the much needed confidence ahead of their Major debut at The Open in two weeks.

The 30-year-old Peterson was disappointed not to win the Sarawak Championship where he held the lead since the opening round. He piled the pressure on Catlin with a cool birdie finish on the last but eventually settled for second place.

Did you know? 

• Catlin only dropped one bogey this week in the second round. He snared a total of 21 birdies in 72 holes.
• He got off to hot start when he birdied the opening two holes before adding four birdies on his homeward nine on holes 10, 12, 17 and 18.
• He becomes the first player to win multiple titles on the Asian Tour in 2018. He won his first Asian Tour title at the Asia-Pacific Classic in China in May.
• The victory was especially sweet for Catlin who finished second last year in an Asian Development Tour (ADT) event which was played on the same course.
• He continues his impressive form this year where he has won two titles and missed only one cut in eight Asian Tour appearances.
• He won US$54,000 and 14 Official World Golf Ranking points. The victory also pushes him to 10th place on the Asian Tour’s Habitat for Humanity Standings.
• Catlin and Chan Shih-chang are now the most successful ADT players on the Asian Tour where they both hold two victories on the region’s premier Tour.
• Catlin’s career has been on the upswing since he finished third on the ADT Order of Merit last year to earn his Asian Tour card in 2018.
• Jazz missed out on a chance to become the first player to win in successive weeks since 2011. He came close when he eagled the 17th hole from five feet.
• Danthai’s title drought continues on the Asian Tour. He won his first title in 2015 but has struggled to replicate his winning form. He was also bogey-free in a round of six birdies.
• Peterson missed out on a chance to win his second Asian Tour title in 2018. However, the American can hold his head high after shooting his personal best of 63 on the Asian Tour in the opening round.
• The Sarawak Championship is only his second Asian Tour event since taking a six-week break to spend time with his family in the United States.

Player quotes:

John Catlin (Usa) – Final Round 66 (-6), Total 266 (-22) 

It was crazy! It was a grind all week long. People keep making birdies and I asked myself ‘when is my birdie going to be enough!’ I finally did it on the 18th hole and that’s what I needed.

Danthai, Peterson and I were tied after the 12th hole and suddenly on 17 we saw that Jazz was one ahead of us! Honestly I wanted someone to go ahead because I figured it would push me and put a little fire under me. That’s probably why I birdied the last hole.

I saw Peterson birdied 18 as well but it didn’t change the situation. It actually helped me seeing the break because I wouldn’t have played quite as much break if I hadn’t seen Paul’s putt. Seeing his putt go in was definitely helpful.

The putt on the last hole was huge because of all the putts from that distance which I missed this week. The win in China was monumental because if I had to go through what I did today without winning earlier this year, I’m not sure if I could have pulled it off. It was nice to have that little bit of winning experience to calm me down.

It is crazy how life pans out. My coach actually told me to come out to Asia. My first two years was really eye opening and I realised what are the areas of my game that I needed to improve on in order to compete. Having a full year on the ADT was big for me to get my feet wet. I won a few times there and that gave me the confidence.

It is crazy where life will take you. I never thought I would be in Asia and now I’ve been here for three and a half years. I remember landing in Bangkok and I don’t know where I’m going and I don’t even know where Hua Hin is but now I live there. It is pretty crazy.

Both my victories are equally awesome. You can’t really put one above the other.

Jazz Janewattananond (Tha) – Final Round 64 (-8), Total 267 (-21)

I didn’t think I had a chance today! I didn’t think I could come close and I started really slow on the front nine. I’m happy that I continued to play this well leading into The Open. After the birdie on 16, I still felt like I was too far but I hit it close on 17 and made eagle. That changed everything but I couldn’t birdie the last hole. It is okay because from no chance of winning, I actually gave myself a glimmer of hope.

Danthai Boonma (Tha) – Final Round 66 (-6), Total 267 (-21)

I played really well. I had six birdies and I was bogey free. I really tried my best. I missed a few short birdie putts on 13 and 14 but that’s golf. I was a little bit nervous but I’m still proud with how I played. I have more confidence now before The Open. I’m off next week so I will practice harder for my first Major championship.

Paul Peterson (Usa) – Final Round 68 (-4), Total 267 (-21)

It was a tremendous week. This is the most under-par I’ve ever been in my professional career. There are a lot of positives to take from the week. It was going to take someone to play a really good round to beat me and that’s what happened. I birdied the last to try and rattle him but a great putt by him. He deserved the win.

We all made putts to go to 20-under on 12 and then we all missed some putts and it was like ‘does anybody really want to win this tournament?’ I had a really good putt on 15 but it hit the lip. I did everything I could and I knew that I had to birdie 18 and I did that. When I look through my career, I can tell myself that I made putts when I needed to. That’s the positive I will take out from this week.

Scores after round 4 of the Sarawak Championship being played at the par 72, 6970 Yards Damai GC course (am – denotes amateur):

266 – John CATLIN (USA) 67-65-68-66.

267 – Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA) 66-66-71-64, Danthai BOONMA (THA) 67-66-68-66, Paul PETERSON (USA) 63-67-69-68."

268 – Javi COLOMO (ESP) 66-67-68-67.

269 – Mark BROWN (NZL) 65-71-67-66.

270 – Scott VINCENT (ZIM) 67-69-70-64, Johannes VEERMAN (USA) 67-70-68-65, Kevin LEE (KOR) 67-65-71-67."

272 – Peradol PANYATHANASEDH (THA) 66-69-67-70.

273 – Chikkarangappa S. (IND) 70-67-70-66, Ajeetesh SANDHU (IND) 68-71-67-67, Himmat RAI (IND) 68-67-70-68, Maverick ANTCLIFF (AUS) 69-69-67-68, Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND) 68-68-66-71.

274 – Natipong SRITHONG (THA) 68-67-69-70.

About Asian Tour

As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Rolex (Official Timekeeper), Panasonic (Official Consumer Electronics), Habitat for Humanity (Official Sustainable Development Partner), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), Titleist and FootJoy (Official Web Partner), Bloomberg TV (Official International Media Partner), Bloomberg Businessweek Chinese (Official International Media Partner), Wall Street Journal (Official International Media Partner) and Sentosa in Singapore which is the Home of the Asian Tour which also has an office in Kuala Lumpur.

Kuching, Malaysia, July 6: Paul Peterson of the United States posted a bogey-free three-under-par 69 to hold a narrow one-shot lead over countryman John Catlin in the third round of the Sarawak Championship on Friday.  

Peterson, who won his first Asian Tour title in January, fired three birdies on his homeward nine to hold on to his lead for the third straight day on 17-under-par 199 at the Damai Golf and Country Club.

Catlin kept up his chase for a second Asian Tour title following a 68 while Thailand’s Danthai Boonma (68), who will play in The Open in a fortnight, and Spaniard Javi Colomo (68) are a further shot back in third place.

India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar also charged into contention with a sparkling 66 to share fifth place with Thailand’s Peradol Panyathanasedh (67) on a 202 total at the US$300,000 Asian Tour event.

Southpaw player Peterson started with nine straight pars before birdies on holes 10, 13 and 16 earned him a slight edge heading into the final 18 holes. The American continued his fine form after dropping only one shot in 54 holes.

The 27-year-old Catlin has unfinished business this week after finishing second on this course on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) last year. The American sank a clutch birdie putt from 18 feet on the 17th hole to stay within striking distance.

Thailand’s Boonma birdied the last two holes to put himself in prime position to end a three-year title drought on the Asian Tour. This will be his final event before he heads to Carnoustie for his Major debut at The Open.  

Did you know? 

• Peterson only dropped one bogey in the second round. In 54 holes, the American has snared a total of 18 birdies.
• He won his first Asian Tour title at the Leopalace21 Myanmar Open in January but since then has struggled to find his winning form.
• The Sarawak Championship is the second Asian Tour event Peterson is playing in after taking a six-week break to visit his family in the United States.
• Peterson holds the low round this week following his opening 63.
• Catlin is enjoying one of his best seasons so far on the Asian Tour. He won his first Asian Tour title in May and has notched three other top-10 results. He only missed one cut in seven appearances so far on the Asian Tour.
• He is currently ranked 15th on the Habitat for Humanity Standings and will battle with countryman Peterson to become the first player in 2018 to win multiple Asian Tour titles.
• Like Peterson, Catlin was also flawless in the penultimate round.
• Danthai won his first Asian Tour title at the 2015 World Classic Championship in Singapore. He has two top-10s so far this year but the most significant was a tied fourth place result at the season-opening SMBC Singapore Open (The Open Qualifying Series) which earned him a ticket to the year’s third Major championship.
• Colomo is an Asian Tour regular who is searching for a first Asian Tour title. This is the first time in 2018 where he is in contention. Last week he secured his best result on the Asian Tour in 2018 with a tied 12th place finish.
• Bhullar finished second at the Queen’s Cup in Thailand last week. It was his second runner-up result following The 37th GS Caltex Maekyung Open Golf Championship in Korea in May.
• He found 14 out of 14 fairways and missed only one green in regulation. He totalled 25 putts and is in good position to launch a title assault for a ninth Asian Tour title.

Player quotes:

Paul Peterson (Usa) – Third Round 69 (-3), Total 199 (-17) 

It did take me a while to get hot. The group seems to survive the first few holes. Nobody really did much and John (Catlin) made a couple of putts. I didn’t really feel that the pin positions suited my game with the wind direction. There were a lot of left pins with left to right wind and I tend to draw the ball.

I tried to stay as patient as I could and hit the ball to the middle of the green and not try to get greedy. I knew that after the turn I will have more opportunities to score. I expected the front nine to be a bit slower unless I made a putt.

I feel like I got a lot out of my round. I had a lot of momentum pars which led to the birdies on the back nine. Hopefully I can get the putter a little bit hotter. The game felt solid and another bogey free day so those are always fun.

I can’t control what the other players do. I just need to make as many birdies as I can. More of the same in terms of cutting the bogeys to a minimum. I will tell my coach that I had a lot out of my round and that I’m happy with things. We will probably just have a laugh tonight.

John Catlin (Usa) – Third Round 68 (-4), Total 200 (-16)

You always want to have a chance going into the last round. To be in this position is why I work all those hours. It is always exciting chasing down a trophy. He (Paul Peterson) is playing well and I’m playing well, it is going to be a good battle. The birdie on 17 was really good. I was just coasting along until that birdie on 17 (18 feet) came. That was nice.

I’ve won on the Asian Tour now so the experience will certainly help. Being able to look yourself in the mirror and honestly say that I’ve been here before and won. There’s no substitute for that.

Danthai Boonma (Tha) – Third Round 68 (-4), Total 201 (-15)

I played really good. Everything seems good for me now. My approach shots to the green are really good and I’m giving myself a lot of birdie chances. I don’t want to think about the win yet. I want to stay focus on my game.

Javi Colomo (Esp) – Third Round 68 (-4), Total 201 (-15)

My game is in a very good shape. I’m really happy with my game. Golf is very funny. At the Korea Open, I finished third to last. The feeling was not that bad but my scores have been very poor. I kept believing in myself and after the Korea Open, I’ve learned a lot. You can see my score at the Queen’s Cup.

I missed the putt on the last hole to miss out on a top-10 finish but that’s okay. I was very proud of myself and I’m giving myself a lot of chances this week. I’m 15-under but my score should be better. Hopefully the best score will happen on the last day.

Gaganjeet Bhullar (Ind) – Third Round 66 (-6), Total 202 (-14)

I hit the ball really good. I hit all the fairways and missed only three greens. Overall it was a good day in terms of ball striking. I got off to a good start with two birdies and that gave me a lot of boost and confidence.

I’m happy to be in this position. I’ve been striking the ball really good in the last four months. The trick is all mental now. If I’m able to do the same thing in the last few days, I will be happy with my game.

It looks like it will be an exciting final round. It looks like the guy who is leading is playing some good golf. Golf is a funny sport and anything is possible. Everybody is giving their 100% and so am I. I’ll go out there and do my best.

Game wise, I’m feeling really confident and I’ve been converting a lot of good scores and giving myself a lot of opportunities.

About Asian Tour

As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Rolex (Official Timekeeper), Panasonic (Official Consumer Electronics), Habitat for Humanity (Official Sustainable Development Partner), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), Titleist and FootJoy (Official Web Partner), Bloomberg TV (Official International Media Partner), Bloomberg Businessweek Chinese (Official International Media Partner), Wall Street Journal (Official International Media Partner) and Sentosa in Singapore which is the Home of the Asian Tour which also has an office in Kuala Lumpur.

Kuching, Malaysia, July 5: Paul Peterson of the United States maintained his lead at the US$300,000 Sarawak Championship by shooting a second round five-under-par 67 on Thursday. 

The 30-year-old Peterson, who is playing in his second Asian Tour event after taking a six-week break, stayed ahead of the chasing pack on 14-under-par 130 at the inaugural Asian Tour event.

The in-form Jazz Janewattananond of Thailand kept up his chase for a second successive victory after posting a 66 to share second place with John Catlin of the United States (65) and Kevin Lee of Korea (65) on 132.

Thai legend Thammanoon Sriroj produced the tournament’s first hole-in-one when he aced the par-three eighth hole with a pitching wedge from 137 yards. He ended the day on a 73 to make the cut on the number. A total of 72 players qualified for the last two rounds on 141.

A recharged Peterson fired six birdies against one bogey but the highlight of his round came when he holed a clutch 20-foot birdie putt on the eighth hole. He was delighted to rediscover his form after visiting his family in the United States.

Jazz is on track to become the first player to win back-to-back titles on the Asian Tour since Lee Westwood in 2011. The young Thai eagled the 17th hole from 24 feet to trail Peterson by two shots.  

Did you know? 

• Peterson dropped only one shot today on the par-three 15th hole. It is his only dropped shot in 36 holes.
• He missed only one green in regulation and found 12 out of 14 fairways in a round of six birdies.
• When Peterson held a share of the lead at the Leopalace21 Myanmar Open in January, he went on to win his first Asian Tour title.
• A left-handed player, Peterson won his first European Tour title in 2016 at the Czech Masters.
• Peterson is currently ranked eighth on the Habitat for Humanity Standings. He is the second highest ranked player in the elite field.
• Lee of Korea is playing in his first season on the Asian Tour. He posted a bogey-free 65, which is also his lowest on the Asian Tour.
• At the age of 25, Lee is aiming to become the first Asian Tour rookie to win this year.
• Catlin won his first Asian Tour title at the Asia-Pacific Classic in China in May.
• Before his victory, Catlin was a regular on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) where he won two titles. He also played at the Damai course on the ADT last year where he finished in second place.
• Jazz holed a 24-foot eagle putt on the 17th hole to stay on track to win back-to-back titles. He produced four straight birdies from the ninth hole to trail the leader by two shots.
• The Sarawak Championship will be Jazz’s last tournament before he heads to The Open for his Major debut.
• Thammanoon produced his career’s second hole-in-one. He birdied the next hole to narrowly survive the halfway cut.

Player Quotes: 

Paul Peterson (Usa) – Second Round 67 (-5), Total 130 (-14) 

I was talking to my coaches after the round yesterday and the message was to stay patient. I came out to get off to a hot start again so that felt really good to get a couple of putts to fall early. That always helps you work your way into the round. It was nice to roll one in on 10 and made another unexpected one on 11.

Yes, I always try to talk to my coach after a round. That’s pretty much a routine to give them a review on how the golf ball is doing, on how under control or out of control it is. We got a pretty good system, they are not only coaches but they are people who I enjoy being with outside the golf course. It is easy to get on the phone and chat with them.

Physically and mentally I feel refresh as I’ve ever been in a long time. That part is the best it has been since I can remember. I’m in a good place, I feel healthy and feel fit. There are a lot of scoring opportunities out here so I’m going to keep it the same – keep the ball on the fairways and try to make birdies. I guess that’s the recipe to success out here.

I have two coaches who I work with right now. Patrick McGuire and Oscar Coetzee, who is more my mental coach.

Jazz Janewattannanond (Tha) – Second Round 66 (-6), Total 132 (-12)

It was another good day in office. I started off quite slowly but I hole some late birdies and an eagle so I’m really happy. I’m on the wrong side of the draw because yesterday morning it was windy and today I heard from my friends that it wasn’t windy so we got a bad draw there but I’m still happy with my score.

I know more about the course after playing three rounds here (including one practice round). I come here to play golf. It is all about the action on the course. I’m not thinking about another win yet.

(On the eagle on the 17th hole). I thought I was going to miss it but I had my two hands up in celebration when it went it. I really didn’t think it would go in!

Kevin Lee (Kor) – Second Round 65 (-7), Total 132 (-12)

It was a pretty good round. I made a lot of good putts but if anything, I felt like I should have hit my approach shots closer. Overall it was still a very good round. So far, yes this is my best score on the Asian Tour.

I drove the ball really the last two days and that obviously sets up my approach shots better. I felt really good over mid-range putts and that really helps when you hole those putts.

My experience has been good so far on the Asian Tour. There’s a lot of travelling but I guess the experience of playing in China (in 2017) has helped. I saw some of my friends enjoyed success on the Asian Tour so I decided to join Qualifying School earlier this year.

I grew up in the United States (California) so playing on the Asian Tour sorts of bring me back to my roots. I’ve not fully explored Korea yet but hopefully I’ll get to do that someday.

John Catlin (Usa) – Second Round 65 (-7), Total 132 (-12)

It is always nice to go bogey free and shoot seven birdies. I got hot with my putter on my homeward nine (started from hole 10) and holed birdies which I didn’t even tried to make. It was one of those kind of days where things just go your way.

You want to have a chance to win but we still have a long way more to go. You have to keep making birdies so I have to stay on the gas pedal. Things started to click and make more sense about a year and a half ago. It is just a continuation of that.

This is my second time in Sarawak. I played on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) here last year and finished second! So I have some good memories on this track. Anytime you can have a competitive round on a golf course is an added advantage. I was definitely excited to come back and improve on my good memories.

Scores after round 2 of the Sarawak Championship being played at the par 72, 6970 Yards Damai GC course (am – denotes amateur):

130 – Paul PETERSON (USA) 63-67.

132 – Kevin LEE (KOR) 67-65, John CATLIN (USA) 67-65, Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA) 66-66.

133 – Javi COLOMO (ESP) 66-67, Danthai BOONMA (THA) 67-66.

135 – Natipong SRITHONG (THA) 68-67, Himmat RAI (IND) 68-67, Peradol PANYATHANASEDH (THA) 66-69.

136 – John Michael O’TOOLE (USA) 68-68, Scott VINCENT (ZIM) 67-69, Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND) 68-68, Yikeun CHANG (KOR) 69-67, Mark BROWN (NZL) 65-71.

137 – Quincy QUEK (SIN) 70-67, Shohei HASEGAWA (JPN) 71-66, Sukree OTHMAN (MAS) 69-68, Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA) 70-67, LU Wei-chih (TPE) 69-68, James MARCHESANI (AUS) 69-68, Johannes VEERMAN (USA) 67-70, Chikkarangappa S. (IND) 70-67, Sihwan KIM (USA) 67-70.

138 – Sam CHIEN (USA) 73-65, M. SASIDARAN (MAS) 69-69, Siddikur RAHMAN (BAN) 68-70, Rattanon WANNASRICHAN (THA) 68-70, LIU Yanwei (CHN) 67-71, Gareth PADDISON (NZL) 68-70, Settee PRAKONGVECH (THA) 69-69, Matt STIEGER (AUS) 71-67, Aman RAJ (IND) 71-67, Danny MASRIN (INA) 71-67, Maverick ANTCLIFF (AUS) 69-69, Pavit TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 69-69, Khalin JOSHI (IND) 68-70.

About Asian Tour

As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Rolex (Official Timekeeper), Panasonic (Official Consumer Electronics), Habitat for Humanity (Official Sustainable Development Partner), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), Titleist and FootJoy (Official Web Partner), Bloomberg TV (Official International Media Partner), Bloomberg Businessweek Chinese (Official International Media Partner), Wall Street Journal (Official International Media Partner) and Sentosa in Singapore which is the Home of the Asian Tour which also has an office in Kuala Lumpur.

Kuching, Malaysia, July 4: A recharged Paul Peterson of the United States fired a superb nine-under-par 63 to take a two-shot lead in the opening round of the Sarawak Championship on Wednesday.

The 30-year-old is playing in his second event since taking a six-week break from golf and produced his low round score on the Asian Tour highlighted by nine birdies at the picturesque Damai Golf and Country Club.

Mark Brown of New Zealand, who won back-to-back Asian Tour titles in 2008, trailed in second place following a 65 at the inaugural US$300,000 Asian Tour event.

The in-form Jazz Janewattananond, winner of last week’s Queen’s Cup, was a further shot back in third place alongside countryman Peradol Panyathanasedh, Mitchell Slorach of Singapore, Javi Colomo of Spain and Berry Henson of the United States.

Peterson, ranked eighth on the Asian Tour’s Habitat for Humanity Standings, won his first Asian Tour title at the Leopalace21 Myanmar Open in January but struggled to repeat his winning form after feeling burned out from playing too much golf.

Playing on a sponsor’s invitation, the 43-year-old Brown, whose wife Mikayla was on his bag, did not miss a single green in regulation as he stayed within striking distance of Peterson.

Thai rising star Jazz continued his fine form by returning with a bogey-free round to stay on track for a second successive Asian Tour victory.

Did you know?

• Peterson fired his personal best score on the Asian Tour with his round of 63. In relation to par, it also matches the low 18-hole score this year on the Asian Tour.
• He struggled with the driver last week but found 14 out 14 fairways today. He only missed one green in regulation while totalling 26 putts.
• He took time off from golf following the Volvo China Open and returned to the United States to spend time with family and friends. It was a much needed break for him after a busy stretch at the end of 2017 and beginning of 2018.
• Peterson holed a monster 35-foot birdie putt on the fifth hole.
• He is among five Americans currently ranked inside the top-10 on the Sarawak Championship leaderboard.
• Brown enjoyed a 100% strike rate in the greens in regulation category. He is playing on a sponsor’s invitation this week.
• After winning the 2008 SAIL Open and Johnnie Walker Classic, which was sanctioned by the Asian Tour and European Tour in India, Brown played mostly in Europe before shifting his focus to the Australasia Tour.
• Before his win on the Asian Tour in 2008, Brown took a sabbatical from golf before reviving his golf career.
• Jazz, who started from the 10th tee, was also bogey-free and the highlight of his round came when he holed three straight birdies from hole one.
• He will make his Major debut at The Open later this month. The Sarawak Championship will be his final preparation before he heads to Carnoustie.

Paul Peterson (USA) – First Round 63 (-9)

I hit every fairway today which is nice compared to last week. I seemed to get the driver sorted out and that always builds my confidence. I started to get into a rhythm and by the time I made the turn, I was going at more flags. It is nice to see some putts go in. I felt like I got into the zone. It was a really good day.

I was hoping to putt on hole five (35 feet) but for that to go in, it was really cool. Lu Wei-chih made one right in front of me and I holed mine so it was nice to see two long putts go in.

I played a lot of golf at the end of last year and a lot at the beginning of the season. I’ve only missed the cut by a shot on the Asian Tour. I felt like I was playing decent enough but after the Volvo China Open, I decided to take some time off.

I felt like I played too much golf and stretched myself a bit too thin on my energy. I lost the fight to want to be on the course competing. I said I wasn’t going to return until I got the fire back in my belly. It feels like my game is starting to come around.

(On what he did during the break) My brother had a baby which I haven’t seen so I went home to see my niece. I kind of shut things down and gained some perspective on things. We make a lot of sacrifices by not being there on holidays, birthdays so I thought visiting my family and friends will give me some balance in my life. I feel good now and I feel that my energy is back.

Mark Brown (NZL) – First Round 65 (-7)

It was good and nice to get out early even though there was a little bit of wind on the first 12 holes. It was nice to get a good round in the morning.

I played in Europe after my victories in 2008 and since then I’ve been playing on the Australasia Tour. I haven’t been playing much but I still enjoy it. It’s great to receive a sponsor’s invitation this week to see old friends, staff and players. It is a real thrill to see everyone.

I’ve been wanting to come back to the Asian Tour for a while so it was nice to get an invite this week.

I played two weeks in Fiji in smaller tournaments and getting used to the heat. I always played well in Asia. I enjoy the heat here and it suits me. My wife (Mikayla) has caddied a lot for me over the last few years. She is a teaching professional so she knows what she is doing. She gives me a telling off from time to time which is what I need.

My game was solid. I don’t think I missed the green and holed a few good putts. It will be tougher tomorrow afternoon but I’m looking forward to it.

Jazz Janewattananond (Tha) – First Round 66 (-6)

It is a new course and it took me a while to get used to the course and greens. I did well with only one practice round. It was weird because other golf courses which we play on it will be windy in the afternoon but it is the opposite here.

The view here is great and it is nice to play next to the beach. This is a new golf course for everyone and not everybody had the chance to have two practice days because of the Wednesday start. Overall, it was still a good start.

Amir Nazrin (Mas) – First Round 68 (-4)

I kept the momentum going today. I haven’t been feeling well (fever and flu) the last two weeks so I think that’s what kept me calm. I need to play well on the Asian Tour when I’m given the opportunity.

I’ve taken up membership on the Asian Tour so I’m really trying to finish inside the top-60. I need to stay patient on the golf course. That’s something which I’ve learnt while playing on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) and on the local tour.

I want to play like how I played today for the rest of the week. I made two really long putts on holes seven (45 feet) and nine (50 feet). Those birdies gave me more confidence. My putter was really my best friend today.

Scores after round 1 of the Sarawak Championship being played at the par 72, 6970 Yards Damai GC course (am – denotes amateur):

63 – Paul PETERSON (USA).

65 – Mark BROWN (NZL).

66 – Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA), Peradol PANYATHANASEDH (THA), Mitchell SLORACH (SIN), Javi COLOMO (ESP), Berry HENSON (USA).

67 – Johannes VEERMAN (USA), Sihwan KIM (USA), Kevin LEE (KOR), Scott VINCENT (ZIM), John CATLIN (USA), Danthai BOONMA (THA), LIU Yanwei (CHN).

68 – Himmat RAI (IND), Malcolm KOKOCINSKI (SWE), Khalin JOSHI (IND), Ajeetesh SANDHU (IND), Amir NAZRIN (MAS), Arie IRAWAN (MAS), Daniel FOX (AUS), John Michael O’TOOLE (USA), Michael TRAN (VNM), Rattanon WANNASRICHAN (THA), Siddikur RAHMAN (BAN), Nicholas FUNG (MAS), Natipong SRITHONG (THA), Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND), Gareth PADDISON (NZL), Jason KNUTZON (USA), Thammanoon SRIROJ (THA). 

About Asian Tour

As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Rolex (Official Timekeeper), Panasonic (Official Consumer Electronics), Habitat for Humanity (Official Sustainable Development Partner), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), Titleist and FootJoy (Official Web Partner), Bloomberg TV (Official International Media Partner), Bloomberg Businessweek Chinese (Official International Media Partner), Wall Street Journal (Official International Media Partner) and Sentosa in Singapore which is the Home of the Asian Tour which also has an office in Kuala Lumpur.

Sentosa, Singapore, July 2: Here’s 5 takeaways from the Queen’s Cup presented by Bangchak where Jazz Janewattananond won his second Asian Tour title on home soil.

1. Jazz started working with his caddy Nick Pugh since last year’s Queen’s Cup. Nick wanted to strike a deal to Jazz, saying he would shave off his beard if Jazz were to win an event with him on the bag. Jazz regretted not taking up the deal after he won the Queen’s Cup presented by Bangchak.
2. Jazz will have Nick on the bag when he makes his Major debut at The Open at Carnoustie in two weeks’ time. Jazz will also enjoy the company of his father, who is a judge in Thailand, when he heads to Scotland.
3. His real name is Atiwit but he switched to his nickname Jazz which was given by his father due to the latter’s preference to jazz music.
4. Prior to his victory, Jazz has enjoyed three top-five finishes in his last seven appearances at the Queen’s Cup, albeit on a different golf course.
5. Jazz rates Thai star Kiradech Aphibarnrat as his role model and will be teeing up for The Open alongside Kiradech and Danthai Boonma.