Pattaya, Thailand, December 31: Shiv Kapur of India emerged triumphant at the US$500,000 Royal Cup after he closed the tournament with a four-under-par 67 to finish 14-under-par 270. 

Sunday was billed as a duel between Kapur and Thailand’s Prom Meesawat after the pair emerged from the pack after round three. At the start of the final round, Prom was two shots ahead of Kapur, who was four shots ahead of the rest of the field.

However, Prom lost his advantage as early as the second hole of the Phoenix Gold Golf and Country Club. After pulling to the left, Prom had to settle for a bogey at the par-three hole, while Kapur knocked in a birdie.

Prom’s further bogeys on the fifth and ninth handed Kapur the lead. Although, the 33-year-old Thai managed to shake off his nerves after the turn and it was all square again following consecutive birdies on the 11th and 12th.

Kapur did himself no favours when he bogeyed the 13th and 14th and in the process, handed Prom a two-shot lead again.

Kapur bounced back remarkably with two consecutive birdies of his own and it was deadlocked again. With Prom bogeying the 17th, the door was left open for Shiv to win the Royal Cup, and he did.

Although, Prom nearly forced a playoff as he narrowly missed a birdie putt at the last hole of the tournament. He finished round four with a 70.

Gaganjeet Bhullar of India carded a 66 to cement third place after a late charge. Thai legend Prayad Marksaeng and Chinese Taipei’s Chan Shih-chang, who won on the same golf course last year, shared fourth place.

Did you know:

• Shiv Kapur made 19 birdies and five bogeys this week.
• Shiv Kapur is the only golfer to win three Asian Tour tournaments this year. In fact, he is the only golfer to win multiple Asian Tour titles in 2017.
• He won at the Yeangder Heritage, Panasonic Open India and the Royal Cup.
• Prom Meesawat has finished top-10 twice in his last three tournaments. He was ninth at the Asian Golf Championship in China and second at the Royal Cup in Thailand.
• Prior to Sunday, Prom only had one bogey in every single round.
• Gaganjeet Bhullar, India’s number one amateur in 2004 and 2006, claimed a silver medal in the team event at the 2006 Asian Games in Doha.
• He has won a tournament in Thailand before, at the 2010 Asian Tour International.
• Prayad Marksaeng is the third winningest player on the Asian Tour with 10 titles.
• He is also the second oldest winner on the Asian Tour. In January this year, he won the SMBC Singapore Open when he was 50 years and 357 days.
• Chan Shih-chang won the 2016 King’s Cup, on the same golf course last year. In the same year, he has also won the 2016 Asia-Pacific Diamond Cup in Japan.

Player Interviews:

Shiv Kapur (Ind) – Fourth Round 67 (-4), Total 270 (-14)

It was a see-saw battle indeed. I had to come out fighting straight out of the blocks. I made two birdies in my first three holes and that reversed Prom’s advantage. It doesn’t always go to plan, but luckily, I started well and he made a bogey on the second hole and before I knew it, I was leading the tournament.

On the ninth, I made a good par, which was pivotal. I had a great putt from off the green on 10th. At that stage, I thought I was in control. I hit a poor drive on the 11th and got away with par. He made good birdies on 11th and 12th and regained the lead.

I felt that I made a bad swing on 13th and that carried over to the next hole. After the two bogeys, I was obviously disappointed as a two-shot lead turned into a two-shot deficit.

Standing on the 15th tee, I told me caddie that we’re not going to go down without a fight. Let’s make a birdie here and see what happens or at least give myself a chance going into the last two holes.

The birdie there (on the 15th) got me back into the tournament. I had a good up and down on the 17th and Prom kind of handed me the tournament as he three putted there. At the 18th, I thought he was a bit unluckily. Prom is a steely competitor and I’m lucky to come out on top.

I think the tournament has a great format. It has a lot of history and I’m glad to join the illustrious list of winners.

A lot of people were taking the week off. In hindsight, sometimes, good things happen. If I had made the EurAsia Cup team, I wouldn’t be here. It’s always great to win three times on Tour during the season. On top of that, it’s a special feeling to have my daughter here on the 18th green celebrating my win.

If 2018 can come anywhere close, I’ll be happy. I’ll be building on my success. After three weeks of rest and relaxation, I’ll be back competing on the Asian Tour.

Prom Meesawat (Tha) – Fourth Round 70 (-1), Total 271 (-13)

It was a good battle with Shiv. He was playing well and I simply made more mistakes. He deserved to win.

It was disappointing for sure. I thought I made the putt for birdie to force a playoff at the 18th. Anyway, it was a good tournament for me. It is always good to end the year with a second-place finish.

For next year, I’ll continue to work hard and try to win a tournament. I’ll take two weeks off before starting on the new season.

Gaganjeet Bhullar (Ind) – Fourth Round 66 (-5), Total 273 (-11)

I had a good tournament. I didn’t prepare much as I came straight from my wedding. Today was particularly good. I holed a lot of good putts and gave myself good opportunities. I played well but obviously these guys (Kapur and Prom) played better than me.

It is good playing this golf course again. I had good memories from last year and I’m glad I came back and played well this week.

2017 is one of the years to remember. The Macao Open was special as it was a wire-to-wire victory and my second win there. It’ll be a tournament that is always close to my heart. This week was great, of course.

Chan Shih-chang (Tpe) – Fourth Round 65 (-6), Total 275 (-9)

I felt really good about this tournament. Overall, I didn’t play to my expectations in 2017. When I heard about the opportunity to come back to play at this golf course (where he won the 2016 King’s Cup), I jumped at it. I felt that I only played one bad round, that is round two. I putted badly and made four three-putts.

I felt that my game was on point yesterday but today, I enjoyed a bit of luck like the chip-in eagle at the sixth. I felt like I was on tournament-winning form.

Scores after round 4 of the Royal Cup being played at the par 71, 6764 Yards Phoenix Gold GCC course (am – denotes amateur):

270 – Shiv KAPUR (IND) 67-68-68-67.

271 – Prom MEESAWAT (THA) 68-67-66-70.

273 – Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND) 67-71-69-66.

275 – Prayad MARKSAENG (THA) 72-67-71-65, CHAN Shih-chang (TPE) 68-75-67-65.

276 – Khalin JOSHI (IND) 70-68-71-67.

277 – Poom SAKSANSIN (THA) 68-71-68-70.

278 – Rattanon WANNASRICHAN (THA) 75-67-69-67, Danthai BOONMA (THA) 73-69-68-68, Antonio LASCUNA (PHI) 69-70-69-70.

279 – Thammanoon SRIROJ (THA) 73-71-68-67, Raththee SIRITHANAKUNSAK (THA) 67-71-70-71, Namchok TANTIPOKHAKUL (THA) 68-70-70-71.

280 – Poosit SUPUPRAMAI (THA) 69-72-69-70, Ben LEONG (MAS) 70-68-71-71.

281 – Peradol PANYATHANASEDH (THA) 69-75-70-67, Donlaphatchai NIYOMCHON (THA) 71-71-69-70, LU Wei-chih (TPE) 68-69-71-73.

282 – Phachara KHONGWATMAI (THA) 70-71-72-69, Nattawat SUVAJANAKORN (THA) 70-71-71-70, Thanpisit OMSIN (THA) 70-69-72-71.

283 – Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA) 69-75-71-68, Chanachok DEJPIRATANAMONGKOL (THA) 72-73-69-69, Panuphol PITTAYARAT (THA) 67-73-72-71, Chapchai NIRAT (THA) 70-70-72-71, Atthaphon SRIBOONKAEW (THA) 73-70-69-71, John CATLIN (USA) 69-72-70-72, Tirawat KAEWSIRIBANDIT (THA) 70-71-70-72, Pasavee LERTVILAI (THA) 70-72-69-72.

284 – Thaworn WIRATCHANT (THA) 69-73-73-69, Wisut ARTJANAWAT (THA) 69-72-75-68, Terry PILKADARIS (AUS) 71-68-77-68, Jakraphan PREMSIRIGORN (THA) 72-72-70-70.

285 – Chinnarat PHADUNGSIL (THA) 72-71-72-70, WANG Wei-lun (TPE) 76-69-69-71, Tawan PHONGPHUN (THA) 72-74-69-70, Suttijet KOORATANAPISAN (THA) 71-70-72-72.

286 – Piya SWANGARUNPORN (THA) 73-72-70-71, Pavit TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 70-78-68-70, Thepbodin AMARANAN (THA) 73-75-71-67.

287 – Jyoti RANDHAWA (IND) 70-73-72-72, Chaiphat KOONMARK (THA) 71-71-72-73, Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA) 67-74-72-74, Chirat JIRASUWAN (THA) 70-75-73-69, Itthipat BURANATANYARAT (THA) 74-76-68-69, Worrasorn SUWANPANANG (THA) 73-73-74-67, Ratchapol JANTAVARA (THA) 72-69-70-76.

289 – Pawin INGKHAPRADIT (THA) 73-72-69-75, Arnond VONGVANIJ (THA) 73-72-72-72, Natipong SRITHONG (THA) 69-75-74-71, Giwhan KIM (KOR) 75-70-73-71.

290 – Panuwat MUENLEK (THA) 73-70-71-76, Nitithorn THIPPONG (THA) 73-67-79-71.

291 – Settee PRAKONGVECH (THA) 73-73-71-74, Danny CHIA (MAS) 72-71-70-78.

292 – Boonchu RUANGKIT (THA) 73-72-73-74.

293 – Somprad RATTANASUWAN (THA) 71-71-75-76, Chonlatit CHUENBOONNGAM (THA) 75-75-71-72, Meechok PHANTHARAK (THA) 74-70-78-71.

294 – Pijit PETCHKASEM (THA) 70-73-77-74, Chawalit PLAPHOL (THA) 73-73-81-67.

295 – Pannakorn UTHAIPAS (THA) 72-70-74-79, Somsak KAOPRATUM (THA) 70-78-74-73, Scott HEND (AUS) 71-77-74-73, Kwanchai TANNIN (THA) 71-79-73-72, Naras LUANGPHETCHARAPORN (THA) 77-70-78-70.

296 – Tawit POLTHAI (THA) 75-74-71-76.

297 – Kasidit LEPKURTE (THA) 75-77-72-73.

298 – Udorn DUANGDECHA (THA) 79-72-76-71.

300 – Ronnachai JAMNONG (THA) 78-76-70-76.

301 – Nattapong PUTTA (THA) 74-76-75-76.

306 – Natthapong NIYOMCHON (THA) 77-76-72-81.

307 – Jaturon DUANGPHAICHOOM (THA) 75-86-71-75.

332 – Jomyoot GEETONG (THA) 86-83-84-79.

335 – Pattalit THANOMSING (THA) 80-89-88-78.

Sorachut HANSAPIBAN, Thailand – RT

Nicholas FUNG, Malaysia – RT

Jbe KRUGER, South Africa – DQ

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), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), FENIX XCell (Official Apparel Supplier), Titleist (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.

Please visit us at:

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April 24: Richard Kaufman catches up with 2016 Asian Tour number 1 Scott Hend as the Australian prepares for the Volvo China Open this week. 

Pattaya, Thailand, December 30: Prom Meesawat of Thailand broke out of the main pack after carding a five-under-par 66 to lead the US$500,000 Royal Cup by two shots. The tournament is currently contested at the Phoenix Gold Golf and Country Club.

The burly Thai golfer kept his mistakes to a minimum and scored six birdies. He only had one bogey the entire round at the 15th, but it could have been much worse if not for a terrific bunker shot that landed five yards from the hole.

Shiv Kapur of India carded a birdie at the 18th to keep things interesting going into Sunday. Kapur, who was playing with Prom in the same group, kept within sight of the leader with pivotal birdies at the 12th in addition to the one at the last hole. Kapur finished Saturday with a 10-under-par 203 total, just two shots behind Prom.

Young Thai golfer Poom Saksansin was happy about his round and rightly so. He kept pace with the front two with a steady display, highlighted by four birdies and just one bogey. He finished round three with a 68 for a share of third place with Gaganjeet Bhullar.

Bhullar, on the other hand, had a rather dramatic round three. He made six birdies, but it was slightly negated by two bogeys and an uncharacteristic double bogey at the par-four ninth. After a magnificent start, the Indian golfer ground out his round towards the last few holes and signed for a 69.

The Royal Cup is a no cut event and it will be the final event on the 2017 Asian Tour schedule.

Did you know:

• Prom Meesawat’s nickname is “The Big Dolphin”, because of his physique and that he comes from the coastal town of Huahin.
• He earned US$134,192 on the Asian Tour this year, which put him in 30th position on the Asian Tour Order of Merit.
• His favourite female golf professional is Paula Creamer.
• Shiv Kapur’s solid season has been a huge turnaround for him after going through a tough year in 2016 where he lost his European Tour card and had to go through a liver surgery which kept him out of the game for a few months.
• Kapur’s first victory on the Asian Tour was in Thailand.
• Kapur got married in 2016, in Bali.
• Poom Saksansin finished eighth on the 2017 Asian Tour Order of Merit. He earned US$331,417 this year.
• Poom qualified for the EurAsia Cup by virtue of being one of the four leading Asian Golfers on the Order of Merit.
• Gaganjeet Bhullar enjoyed a tied-second finish the last time he was in Thailand, at the Thailand Open.
• He earned US$253,803 and finished 15th on the Asian Tour Order of Merit.

Player Interviews:

Prom Meesawat (Tha) – Third Round 66 (-5), Total 201 (-12)

I was playing my own game and Shiv (Kapur) was playing his own game. We have known each other for a long time. Shiv was playing well and didn’t make many mistakes. Even myself, I’m playing well too. I hope that it’ll be good fun tomorrow.

Especially this week, I’m hitting my irons pretty good. I was able to control the distance well. As I’ve mentioned, you’ve got to stay pin high at this course. The green is typically soft on the front nine and hard at the back nine.

I had two tough shots. At the 13th (where he scored a birdie), I had to hit it high from the rough so that the ball can stop on the green. That one worked out well. At the 15th, I left about four to five yards short of the hole from the bunker.

I’m going to stick with my game plan tomorrow. I’ll go shot by shot. Shiv is playing well, I’m playing well. I’ll just go out and enjoy. Having a two-shot advantage is nothing in golf these days. I’m just going to try my best to win.

Shiv Kapur (Ind) – Third Round 68 (-3), Total 203 (-10)

I played great today. He (Prom) didn’t make many mistakes. He left the door opened once or twice, but I didn’t capitalise on it. Every time I made a birdie, he seemed to make a birdie as well. He played a solid back nine and he seemed to pull away a bit.

I told my caddie at the 18th tee, if I can birdie the last and close the gap to two shots, that can give me a better chance for a win. It’s a big difference between being two shots back and three shots back.

The birdie on 12th was the turning point of my round today. If I missed and he made the birdie, as it would widen the gap.

I’m not trying to get into a match play situation. Perhaps, if it’s the last few holes tomorrow and it’s a similar situation as today then maybe, you can look at that.

I’ve known Prom since the junior days and I’ve played with him in the last 15 to 20 years. I have a lot of respect for his game. He’s a fantastic player and he’s not going to hand me the tournament. I’m going to have to go out and work hard for it. With a birdie at the last hole, I have a better chance.

It’ll be a fun battle if I can score some birdies on the front nine and put some pressure on him.

Poom Saksansin (Tha) – Third Round 68 (-3), Total 207 (-6)

Today I had a mistake, but it was a good mistake. I tried to lay up at the fifth hole, but it hooked to the pin and I made a birdie there.

Another good hole was the 10th. I had a good birdie chance, but I missed it. It was simply too difficult. The green was quite sloppy and I didn’t give it enough allowance.

Overall, I’m happy because I played well today. The weather is hot today, but in a good way. The winds are strong and the back nine is firmer than the front nine. The pins are still as tough as ever, but I am looking forward to the challenge.

Gaganjeet Bhullar (Ind) – Third Round 69 (-2), Total 207 (-6)

It was a bit of a yo-yo round and there were lots of ups and downs during the day.

I did make six birdies today, but I’ve also made some bad shots which led to bogeys. But otherwise, I drove the ball well like I did the last two rounds, kept the ball in play at pretty much all the holes and I gave myself plenty of birdie opportunities. I made some par saves at the end but otherwise, it was a decent round.

I started the round pretty well with two consecutive birdies. The other highlight was my second shot on the eighth. I was 92 yards from the stick. I took a sand wedge, hit the ball from the rough and it went in.

I’m looking forward to having a good low round on Sunday.

Scores after round 3 of the Royal Cup being played at the par 71, 6764 Yards Phoenix Gold GCC course (am – denotes amateur):

201 – Prom MEESAWAT (THA) 68-67-66.

203 – Shiv KAPUR (IND) 67-68-68.

207 – Poom SAKSANSIN (THA) 68-71-68, Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND) 67-71-69.

208 – Antonio LASCUNA (PHI) 69-70-69, Namchok TANTIPOKHAKUL (THA) 68-70-70, Raththee SIRITHANAKUNSAK (THA) 67-71-70, LU Wei-chih (TPE) 68-69-71.

209 – Ben LEONG (MAS) 70-68-71, Khalin JOSHI (IND) 70-68-71.

210 – CHAN Shih-chang (TPE) 68-75-67, Danthai BOONMA (THA) 73-69-68, Poosit SUPUPRAMAI (THA) 69-72-69, Prayad MARKSAENG (THA) 72-67-71.

211 – Donlaphatchai NIYOMCHON (THA) 71-71-69, Rattanon WANNASRICHAN (THA) 75-67-69, Pasavee LERTVILAI (THA) 70-72-69, Tirawat KAEWSIRIBANDIT (THA) 70-71-70, John CATLIN (USA) 69-72-70, Ratchapol JANTAVARA (THA) 72-69-70, Thanpisit OMSIN (THA) 70-69-72.

212 – Atthaphon SRIBOONKAEW (THA) 73-70-69, Thammanoon SRIROJ (THA) 73-71-68, Nattawat SUVAJANAKORN (THA) 70-71-71, Chapchai NIRAT (THA) 70-70-72, Panuphol PITTAYARAT (THA) 67-73-72.

213 – Danny CHIA (MAS) 72-71-70, Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA) 67-74-72, Phachara KHONGWATMAI (THA) 70-71-72, Suttijet KOORATANAPISAN (THA) 71-70-72.

214 – Jakraphan PREMSIRIGORN (THA) 72-72-70, Panuwat MUENLEK (THA) 73-70-71, Peradol PANYATHANASEDH (THA) 69-75-70, Chaiphat KOONMARK (THA) 71-71-72, Pawin INGKHAPRADIT (THA) 73-72-69, Chanachok DEJPIRATANAMONGKOL (THA) 72-73-69, WANG Wei-lun (TPE) 76-69-69.

215 – Jyoti RANDHAWA (IND) 70-73-72, Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA) 69-75-71, Chinnarat PHADUNGSIL (THA) 72-71-72, Piya SWANGARUNPORN (THA) 73-72-70, Thaworn WIRATCHANT (THA) 69-73-73, Tawan PHONGPHUN (THA) 72-74-69.

216 – Pannakorn UTHAIPAS (THA) 72-70-74, Pavit TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 70-78-68, Wisut ARTJANAWAT (THA) 69-72-75, Terry PILKADARIS (AUS) 71-68-77.

217 – Arnond VONGVANIJ (THA) 73-72-72, Somprad RATTANASUWAN (THA) 71-71-75, Settee PRAKONGVECH (THA) 73-73-71.

218 – Natipong SRITHONG (THA) 69-75-74, Giwhan KIM (KOR) 75-70-73, Boonchu RUANGKIT (THA) 73-72-73, Chirat JIRASUWAN (THA) 70-75-73, Itthipat BURANATANYARAT (THA) 74-76-68.

219 – Nitithorn THIPPONG (THA) 73-67-79, Thepbodin AMARANAN (THA) 73-75-71.

220 – Pijit PETCHKASEM (THA) 70-73-77, Worrasorn SUWANPANANG (THA) 73-73-74, Tawit POLTHAI (THA) 75-74-71.

221 – Chonlatit CHUENBOONNGAM (THA) 75-75-71.

222 – Meechok PHANTHARAK (THA) 74-70-78, Somsak KAOPRATUM (THA) 70-78-74, Scott HEND (AUS) 71-77-74.

223 – Kwanchai TANNIN (THA) 71-79-73.

224 – Kasidit LEPKURTE (THA) 75-77-72, Ronnachai JAMNONG (THA) 78-76-70.

225 – Naras LUANGPHETCHARAPORN (THA) 77-70-78, Nattapong PUTTA (THA) 74-76-75, Natthapong NIYOMCHON (THA) 77-76-72.

227 – Chawalit PLAPHOL (THA) 73-73-81, Udorn DUANGDECHA (THA) 79-72-76.

232 – Jaturon DUANGPHAICHOOM (THA) 75-86-71.

253 – Jomyoot GEETONG (THA) 86-83-84.

257 – Pattalit THANOMSING (THA) 80-89-88.

Jbe KRUGER, South Africa – DQ

Nicholas FUNG, Malaysia – RT

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), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), FENIX XCell (Official Apparel Supplier), Titleist (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.

Please visit us at:

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Huairou, Beijing, April 24: Thai star Kiradech Aphibarnrat is itching to get back into action at the prestigious Volvo China Open which gets underway at the Beijing Topwin Golf and Country Club on Thursday.

After enjoying a two-week break at home following his second Masters appearance earlier this month, Kiradech is recharged and ready to contend at the CN¥20,000,000 (approx. US$3,178,000) event.

The 28-year-old Thai enters the week as the highest-ranked player in 32nd place on the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR). He will spearhead the Asian Tour challenge alongside 40 other winners, which includes young Indian talent Shubhankar Sharma, who leads the current Habitat for Humanity Standings.

Haotong Li of China, Shubhankar Sharma of India and Kiradech Aphibarnrat of Thailand at the Great Wall of China

China’s number one Haotong Li, winner of the Volvo China Open in 2016, will also take aim at recapturing the trophy on home soil and become only the second player, following Alexander Levy in 2017, to win the tournament twice.

Micah Shin of the United States, a one-time Asian Tour winner, is hoping to put up a good showing this week for a memorable China debut. Japanese hotshot Yuta Ikeda is also looking to continue his good form when he makes his first appearance in the Volvo China Open this week.

The 24th edition of the Volvo China Open is tri-sanctioned by the Asian Tour, European Tour and the China Golf Association. It is staged for the third successive year at the Topwin Golf and Country Club.

Other notable names include reigning Asian Tour Order of Merit champion Gavin Green of Malaysia, Australian Scott Hend, Wenchong Liang of China, Thai star Thongchai Jaidee, as well as India’s Jeev Milkha Singh and Gaganjeet Bhullar.

Did you know?

• Kiradech Aphibarnrat is a three-time winner on the Asian Tour and a four-time champion on the European Tour. He was crowned Asian Tour’s number one in 2013.
• Kiradech is the highest-ranked player in the field this week. He sits in a current 32nd place on the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR).
• Kiradech claimed his third Asian Tour victory in Perth, Australia in February. He went on to secure his third Asian Development Tour title in Brunei the following month.
• Kiradech sits in fourth place on both the Asian Tour’s Habitat for Humanity Standings and the European Tour’s Race To Dubai rankings.
• Haotong Li became the youngest winner of the Volvo China Open when he won the tournament in 2016 at the age of 20.
• Earlier in January, Li claimed his second European Tour title in Dubai after defeating former world number one Rory McIlroy in a playoff. He propelled to 32nd place on the OWGR following that win and became the first ever Chinese player to break into the world’s top 50. He currently sits in 44th place.
• Japanese hotshot Yuta Ikeda will be making his debut appearance at the Volvo China Open this week. The world number 61 represented Team Asia at the EurAsia Cup in Malaysia earlier in January.
• Ikeda, a one-time Asian Tour winner, enjoyed a tied-14th place finish on home soil last week.
• American Micah Shin claimed his breakthrough Asian Tour title in Manila, Philippines last November. That victory came after he called a ruling on himself and was penalized two strokes on the first hole for having 15 clubs in the bag in the final round.
• The 21-year-old Shin, who is based in Davao, Philippines, is visiting China for the very first time this week.

Players’ quotes:

Kiradech Aphibarnrat (Tha) trying to play the Guzheng

Kiradech Aphibarnrat (Tha)

It was a great experience visiting the Great Wall of China today. It’s my first time there and I enjoyed myself a lot. It was really impressive.

I haven’t played any tournaments since the Masters tournament earlier this month. The game’s feeling fantastic. Everyone will know after this week (laughs).

It’s always nice to be back in China. I have won here before and my great-grandfather is from China. It will mean a lot to my dad if I can win again in China. The golf courses here are always in fantastic shape. You got to putt well for sure.

Topwin Golf and Country Club is a tough course but it’s in a fantastic shape. The fairways are narrow but I always feel great playing in China.

I have worked really hard for the last eight months so I took a two-week break after The Masters tournament. I didn’t practice at all and was just resting at home, trying to regroup myself and think about my next goal.

My goal at the start of the year was to break into top-30 on the Official World Golf Ranking and then reward myself with a new car and watch. I am happy to have achieved that. I am now aiming to break into top-20. If I can do that, I will buy another two cars!

I feel refreshed for the week and I am ready for the challenge. I look forward to the week and I will try to play some low scores out there.

Haotong Li (Chn)

I enjoyed the trip to the Great Wall of China this morning. It’s really beautiful out there. It’s always very exciting to be back playing at home. Hopefully I can play well this week.

Winning the tournament again will mean a lot for sure, especially playing in front of your home crowd, which includes your friends and family members. It will be a great boost for my career. Only Alex Levy has won the tournament twice. I hope to be the second one.

The course is looking very nice. The greens are quite fast. The game’s feeling good as well. I am looking forward to play this week.

Yuta Ikeda (Jpn)

It’s my first time playing the Volvo China Open. It is exciting because I am visiting a new place. I have never seen or played the golf course but I am looking forward to playing there. The game’s not bad so far this season but unfortunately it hasn’t quite reflected in my results.

I think traveling has made me exhausted and hence, unable to build on my good game and momentum. It was great to be home playing in Japan last week so that has helped me a little bit. I hope to continue that good form into this week.

Micah Shin (Usa)

It feels really different this week because it’s my first time in China. The people don’t speak English here so it’s a little bit difficult to get around. The golf course is really nice. It’s a big tournament so I am looking forward to the week.

Winning in Manila last year has given me a lot of confidence in my game. It gives me new perspectives as well when I play in tournaments now. I haven’t been playing as well recently but I feel like if I were to get into a similar situation like in Manila, I will have a good chance to win again.

Winning that first Asian Tour title was also a big change for me because I get to play in bigger events now which is great. I am always very positive. I haven’t had a good start to the season but I believe when things start to click, I can get up to the top again.

I have been struggling with my ball striking. I haven’t been hitting so good. I am working on it for a while. It’s getting better. I just want to enjoy this week, don’t think so much and just play my game. Course management and putting will be the key this week.

Micah Shin (Usa) is visiting China for the first time this week

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.

Pattaya, Thailand, December 29: Prom Meesawat of Thailand shot a four-under-par 67 to share first place with Shiv Kapur of India after the second round of the US$500,000 Royal Cup.

The experienced Thai golfer was feeling very positive from the first hole at the Phoenix Gold Golf and Country and he had the result to show for it. Prom carded three birdies and an eagle during the round for a seven-under-par 135 total.

The only blemish on his scorecard was a bogey on hole two. Prom put it down to bad luck as the wind picked up just as he hit the ball flush.

Shiv kept mistakes out of his game and carded a bogey-free 68. Similar to round one, he needed a few holes to get his game started. Things went on track for him after consecutive birdies on the sixth and seven.

Lu Wei-chih of Chinese Taipei is two shots behind the leaders in lone third after carding a 69. He scored three birdies and turned in at 33 courtesy of some accurate approach shots. However, things did not go as well over his back nine (holes one to nine) as he made three bogeys. Although, he had an eagle on the sixth.

The entire field stays for the weekend as the Royal Cup is a no cut event. It is also the final event on the 2017 Asian Tour schedule.

Did you know:

• Prom Meesawat is a two-time winner on the Asian Tour. He won the 2006 SK Telecom Open and the 2014 Yeangder TPC.
• He finished 30th on the Asian Tour Order of Merit.
• Prom enjoyed three top-10 finishes in 2017, the Yeangder TPC, Macao Open and the Asian Golf Championship
• Shiv Kapur won an individual gold medal for golf at the 2002 Asian Games.
• The Indian golfer ended an 11-year wait for the title by winning the 2017 Yeangder Heritage
• Lu Wei-chih had a brain tumour removed in mid-2012. He recovered and went back to competitive golf a year later.
• His victory at the 2016 Mercuries Taiwan Masters completed his comeback in spectacular fashion.
• All four Asian Tour victories that Lu had were in Chinese Taipei.

Player Interviews:

Prom Meesawat (Tha) – Second Round 67 (-4), Total 135 (-7)

It’s another good day for me as I didn’t make a lot of mistakes. The bogey that I had was just unlucky. I hit a good shot and thought about having a birdie chance at the hole, but the wind picked up and the ball flew over the hole.

I played well after the turn, as I birdied the fifth and eagle the sixth.

The sixth is good for long hitters. This time, the wind helped me drove the ball farther down the fairway. I took a 7-iron and it landed over the bunker and rolled onto the green. I then putted in for eagle from 25 feet.

Over at the back nine, it’s tougher and firmer, so you have to control your distance very well.

It’s a tight leaderboard, so everyone’s still got a chance. This course is short. If you can read the green well, you can go low on this golf course. For myself, I’ll just go out and enjoy the weekend.

Shiv Kapur (Ind) – Second Round 68 (-3), Total 135 (-7)

I was bogey-free today. I kept the mistakes off the card. I felt that I had a slow start as I didn’t give myself birdie chances in the first five holes. I ground out a few pars, made a birdie on the sixth and a good birdie on seven. I got going after that.

I thought the conditions were much tougher today. The winds picked up and the greens got firm. The greens were pretty fast as well. Over at the back nine, I was just hanging on and trying to avoid the mistakes.

Overall, if you’re leading the tournament, you can’t be too unhappy. Hopefully, I can handle it better tomorrow and give myself a few more chances. I also hope that the course stays tough because I like it to be tough.

Lu Wei-chih (Tpe) – Second Round 69 (-2), Total 137 (-5)

I started the round feeling really prepared. I hit my second shot well, which gave me birdie opportunities. The greens here are rather sloppy, so it is very important to land in an ideal position. I got into some trouble at some holes at the back nine simply because I failed to do that.

At the sixth where I eagled, I drove to the right side of the fairway, which offered a good line to the green. My second shot was also well hit. My putt needed to go up a slope before flattening out towards the hole. I was surprised to sink that putt, but nevertheless, I was very happy about that.

Over the weekends, like what I’ve done previously, I’ll just focus on my golf swing. I’m making adjustments to make it better.

Scores after round 2 of the Royal Cup being played at the par 71, 6764 Yards Phoenix Gold GCC course (am – denotes amateur):

135 – Prom MEESAWAT (THA) 68-67, Shiv KAPUR (IND) 67-68.

137 – LU Wei-chih (TPE) 68-69.

138 – Raththee SIRITHANAKUNSAK (THA) 67-71, Namchok TANTIPOKHAKUL (THA) 68-70, Khalin JOSHI (IND) 70-68, Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND) 67-71, Ben LEONG (MAS) 70-68.

139 – Prayad MARKSAENG (THA) 72-67, Antonio LASCUNA (PHI) 69-70, Thanpisit OMSIN (THA) 70-69, Terry PILKADARIS (AUS) 71-68, Poom SAKSANSIN (THA) 68-71.

140 – Jbe KRUGER (RSA) 69-71, Panuphol PITTAYARAT (THA) 67-73, Nitithorn THIPPONG (THA) 73-67, Chapchai NIRAT (THA) 70-70.

141 – Wisut ARTJANAWAT (THA) 69-72, Suttijet KOORATANAPISAN (THA) 71-70, Ratchapol JANTAVARA (THA) 72-69, John CATLIN (USA) 69-72, Phachara KHONGWATMAI (THA) 70-71, Poosit SUPUPRAMAI (THA) 69-72, Nattawat SUVAJANAKORN (THA) 70-71, Tirawat KAEWSIRIBANDIT (THA) 70-71, Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA) 67-74.

142 – Thaworn WIRATCHANT (THA) 69-73, Danthai BOONMA (THA) 73-69, Somprad RATTANASUWAN (THA) 71-71, Pasavee LERTVILAI (THA) 70-72, Chaiphat KOONMARK (THA) 71-71, Rattanon WANNASRICHAN (THA) 75-67, Pannakorn UTHAIPAS (THA) 72-70, Donlaphatchai NIYOMCHON (THA) 71-71.

143 – Panuwat MUENLEK (THA) 73-70, Chinnarat PHADUNGSIL (THA) 72-71, Atthaphon SRIBOONKAEW (THA) 73-70, Danny CHIA (MAS) 72-71, Pijit PETCHKASEM (THA) 70-73, CHAN Shih-chang (TPE) 68-75, Jyoti RANDHAWA (IND) 70-73.

144 – Meechok PHANTHARAK (THA) 74-70, Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA) 69-75, Jakraphan PREMSIRIGORN (THA) 72-72, Natipong SRITHONG (THA) 69-75, Thammanoon SRIROJ (THA) 73-71, Peradol PANYATHANASEDH (THA) 69-75.

145 – Giwhan KIM (KOR) 75-70, Pawin INGKHAPRADIT (THA) 73-72, Arnond VONGVANIJ (THA) 73-72, Boonchu RUANGKIT (THA) 73-72, Piya SWANGARUNPORN (THA) 73-72, Chanachok DEJPIRATANAMONGKOL (THA) 72-73, Chirat JIRASUWAN (THA) 70-75, WANG Wei-lun (TPE) 76-69.

146 – Tawan PHONGPHUN (THA) 72-74, Worrasorn SUWANPANANG (THA) 73-73, Chawalit PLAPHOL (THA) 73-73, Settee PRAKONGVECH (THA) 73-73.

147 – Naras LUANGPHETCHARAPORN (THA) 77-70, Nicholas FUNG (MAS) 72-75.

148 – Somsak KAOPRATUM (THA) 70-78, Pavit TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 70-78, Scott HEND (AUS) 71-77, Thepbodin AMARANAN (THA) 73-75.

149 – Tawit POLTHAI (THA) 75-74.

150 – Nattapong PUTTA (THA) 74-76, Itthipat BURANATANYARAT (THA) 74-76, Kwanchai TANNIN (THA) 71-79, Chonlatit CHUENBOONNGAM (THA) 75-75.

151 – Udorn DUANGDECHA (THA) 79-72.

152 – Kasidit LEPKURTE (THA) 75-77.

153 – Natthapong NIYOMCHON (THA) 77-76.

154 – Ronnachai JAMNONG (THA) 78-76.

161 – Jaturon DUANGPHAICHOOM (THA) 75-86.

169 – Pattalit THANOMSING (THA) 80-89, Jomyoot GEETONG (THA) 86-83.

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), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), FENIX XCell (Official Apparel Supplier), Titleist (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.

Please visit us at:

www.wp-asiantour.ocs-sport.com

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www.twitter.com/asiantourgolf

www.youtube.com/theasiantour

www.weibo.com/asiantourgolf

Sentosa, Singapore, April 23: The amiable Rahil Gangjee waited 14 years to win his second Asian Tour title at the Panasonic Open Golf Championship and it came at a time when Indian golf is at its peak.

At the age of 39, Gangjee, who is well liked for his bubbly character, sank a clutch birdie on the 72nd hole to return to winnings ways since his breakthrough win in China in 2004.

After his first Asian Tour victory, he watched his friends and other young Indians rise through the ranks but Gangjee remained resolute and finally reaped the rewards of his hard work in Japan.

“It has been 14 years. I’ve been in such situations a few times but obviously have not been able to convert my chances. It has been a very hard 14 years and the thing that surprises even myself is my will to keep going,” said Gangjee.

It is still early in the 2018 season but Gangjee is currently the oldest Asian Tour winner in a year which has been dominated by the young guns, most notably by his compatriot Shubhankar Sharma who is almost half his age.

Despite watching the younger Asian and Indian stars excel in the world of golf, Gangjee’s hunger for success never wavered, thanks largely to the strong support from family and friends.

“Golf is an individual sport and you need friends to help you through the bad times. This win will sink in. When you do not deliver after so many times, you start to doubt yourself and when you finally deliver, it’s a very big thing.

“Everyone will play their part in helping you out, the caddie, the mother, the father, the wife, friends. But more than anything else, you have to want it. And that has kept me going. I have a lot of close friends who have been there for me and have always supported me. Having mates on Tour supporting you is a big thing as golf is a very competitive sport,” he added.

Gangjee grew up with the ambition of becoming a race horse jockey but his father, a tea trader, told him to quit the sport as he felt it was dangerous. The only danger he faced on Sunday was nervousness which he superbly overcame.

“My heart rate was up especially when I got to the (18th) green and I knew I had to get up and down. That’s where my heart started racing and my mind started going all over the place. That was the chance I had to convert and I did,” he smiled.

Shiv Kapur of India, who sealed the Panasonic Swing Ranking to win the top bonus prize of US$70,000 and an exemption into an event on the European Tour this year, was delighted to be part of a successful week for Indian golf.

The Panasonic Swing ranking is based on an aggregate points system earned by players at five selected tournaments and Kapur collected the most points thanks largely to his win at the Panasonic Open India last November.

“It is amazing. Rahil is a close friend and I told him I was feeling the pressure standing on the 18th green. I’m so happy for him. It couldn’t happen to a nicer guy,” said Kapur.

“On a personal note, winning the Panasonic Swing ranking was a big goal for me. Coming into this week, I carried a lot of pressure trying to win the Panasonic Swing and it showed in my result. I’m really proud to be able to win the first ever Panasonic Swing,” he added.

With the victory Gangjee moved to third place on the Asian Tour’s Habitat for Humanity Standings with earnings of US$283,018. Sharma leads the rankings on US$548,125 while Matt Wallace of England, who won the Hero Indian Open, trails in second place on US$291,660.

Thailand’s Kiradech Aphibarnrat (US$251,173) and Paul Peterson (US$215,758) of the United States sit in fourth and fifth place respectively.

The Asian Tour will travel to the Middle Kingdom this week for the CN¥20,000,000 (approx. US$3,178,000) Volvo China Open. The event, played at the Beijing Topwin Golf and Country Club, will be sanctioned by the Asian Tour, European Tour and the China Golf Association.

Pos      Player Order of Merit (US$)

1.         Shubhankar SHARMA   (IND)  548,125

2.         Matt WALLACE   (ENG) 291,660

3.         Rahil GANGJEE   (IND) 283,018

4.         Kiradech APHIBARNRAT   (THA) 251,173

5.         Paul PETERSON   (USA) 215,758

6.         Sihwan KIM   (USA) 175,010

7.         Daniel NISBET   (AUS) 150,863

8.         Berry HENSON   (USA) 131,983

9.         Hideto TANIHARA   (JPN) 123,306

10.       Shaun NORRIS   (RSA) 118,284

11.       Khalin JOSHI   (IND) 103,730

12.       Terry PILKADARIS   (AUS) 102,539

13.       Scott VINCENT   (ZIM) 93,508

14.       Prom MEESAWAT   (THA) 89,369

15.       Rattanon WANNASRICHAN   (THA) 85,328

16.       Jazz JANEWATTANANOND   (THA) 84,462

17.       Jarin TODD   (USA) 83,945

18.       Masahiro KAWAMURA   (JPN) 83,243

19.       Danthai BOONMA   (THA) 82,712

20.       Panuphol PITTAYARAT   (THA) 67,131

Ends.

Shah Alam, Malaysia, December 29: Thailand’s Poom Saksansin aims to keep his cool amidst the excitement of the EurAsia Cup presented by DRB-HICOM, a Ryder Cup-style showdown hosted by Glenmarie Golf and Country Club from January 12 to 14, 2018.

The two-time Asian Tour champion will make his first appearance at the EurAsia Cup after earning his place as one of the four leading Asian players on the Order of Merit. He will be representing a young and dynamic Team Asia and competing against a strong Team Europe.

“I feel very proud to be representing Team Asia. I will try my best to do well at this event,” said Poom, who finished eighth on the Asian Tour Order of Merit.

The 24-year-old Thai admitted that the magnitude of the event was beginning to sink in and he will rely on his past experience to help him perform at his best. He understands that there are expectations riding high on him from all directions.

“I have played in a local match play event before but it was a long time ago when I was still an amateur. I feel nervous playing in a match play tournament now because I will have someone else as my partner. If I play bad, I am worried that it will make him look bad. I’ll focus on making as many birdies as I can,” said Poom.

Poom’s success as an amateur has laid a solid foundation for him in professional golf. A comparison of his career money, which has more than doubled from 2016 to 2017, reflects his maturity as a touring professional and his hunger to rise up the ranks.

“This has been a good season for me. I will just keep riding on this good form going into the EurAsia Cup. After the Royal Cup, I will not have any time to do anything different, so I will just adopt the same mentality when it comes to my game,” said Poom.

Compatriot Phachara Khongwatmai, Malaysia’s Gavin Green and India’s S.S.P. Chawrasia join Poom as the four leading Asian players on the Order of Merit who qualified for Team Asia.

“Phachara is playing very well now. He finished second last week (at the Indonesian Masters) and I am happy that he is in good form.”

Team Asia will consist of Malaysia’s Nicholas Fung, Japan’s Yuta Ikeda and Hideto Tanihara, China’s Li Haotong, India’s Anirban Lahiri, Thailand’s Kiradech Aphibarnrat as well as Korea’s Byeonghun An and Sunghoon Kang.

Team Europe will feature Rafa Cabrera-Bello, Paul Casey, Paul Dunne, Ross Fisher, Matthew Fitzpatrick, Tommy Fleetwood, Tyrrell Hatton, Alex Levy, Alex Noren, Thomas Pieters, Henrik Stenson and Bernd Wiesberger.

The EurAsia Cup will feature 24 matches, with day one showcasing six Fourball matches, followed by six Foursomes matches and 12 Singles matches on the third day.

Ticket sales are now open. You can purchase the EurAsia Cup presented by DRB-HICOM tickets here: https://www.ticketpro.com.my/sports/2231222-Eurasia-Cup-2018.html

Ends.

About DRB-HICOM

DRB-HICOM Berhad (“DRB-HICOM”) is one of Malaysia’s leading conglomerates with core businesses in the Automotive, Services & Education, as well as Property sectors. With more than 90 active companies in its stable and over 59,000 employees group-wide, DRB-HICOM’s aim is to continue adding value and propelling the nation’s development. In the Automotive sector, DRB-HICOM is involved in the manufacturing, assembly and distribution of passenger and commercial vehicles, including the national motorcycle. In Services & Education, DRB-HICOM is involved in various businesses, including concession and financial-related services. In Property, DRB-HICOM is involved in residential and commercial developments.

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), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), FENIX XCell (Official Apparel Supplier), Titleist (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.

Please visit us at:

www.wp-asiantour.ocs-sport.com

www.facebook.com/asiantourgolf

www.twitter.com/asiantourgolf

www.youtube.com/theasiantour

www.weibo.com/asiantourgolf

About the European Tour

The European Tour celebrates men’s professional golf on a global stage. In 2017, the European Tour International Schedule features a minimum of 47 tournaments in 26 countries, including eight Rolex Series events, all part of the Race to Dubai.Celebrating the global connectivity of the European Tour and Dubai, the Race to Dubai is a season-long competition to crown the European Tour’s Number One player, an honour which in 2016 went to Sweden’s Henrik Stenson for the second time, and which since 2009 has also been achieved three times by Rory McIlroy, as well as by Lee Westwood, Martin Kaymer and Luke Donald. Formerly known as the Order of Merit, points are accumulated based on prize money won, with the top 10 ranked players at the end of the season sharing a $5million Race to Dubai bonus pool.Since its formation in 1972, the European Tour has witnessed 26 Members celebrate a total of 52 Major Championship titles between them, enjoyed ten Members attaining the pinnacle of World Number One and has celebrated its diversity as players from 36 different countries have won on the Tour.The European Tour also manages the Challenge Tour, which featured 28 tournaments in 22 countries in 2016, and the Senior Tour, which featured 13 tournaments in nine countries in 2016. It is also the Managing Partner of Ryder Cup Europe, the body which, alongside the PGA of America, administers golf’s greatest team contest, The Ryder Cup.The European Tour broadcasts live coverage of its tournaments to more than 490 million homes in more than 150 countries every week, generating in excess of 2,200 global broadcast hours for each event. It also enjoys the support of many of the world’s leading business brands with Rolex, BMW, Emirates and Titleist as Official Partners.

About MMC Corporation Berhad

MMC Corporation Berhad (MMC) is a leading utilities and infrastructure group with diversified businesses under three divisions, namely ports & logistics, energy & utilities and engineering & construction.Its key businesses under the Ports and Logistics division include the operations of Port of Tanjung Pelepas Sdn Bhd, Johor Port Berhad, Northport (Malaysia) Bhd, Penang Port Sdn Bhd, Kontena Nasional Berhad and JP Logistics. Internationally, MMC has an associate stake in Red Sea Gateway Terminal Company Limited, a container port terminal within the Jeddah Islamic Port, Saudi Arabia.Under the Energy & Utilities division, MMC is the single largest shareholder of both Malakoff Corporation Berhad and Gas Malaysia Berhad.MMC’s Engineering & Construction division has further established itself in the sector with a leading role as the Project Delivery Partner (PDP) and underground works package contractor for the 51km Klang Valley Mass Rapid Transit (KVMRT) project (Sungai Buloh-Kajang Line) and Line 2 project (Sungai Buloh-Serdang-Putrajaya Line). Prior to this, MMC has successfully completed the 329km Ipoh-Padang Besar Electrified Double Tracking Project as well as the innovative Stormwater Management and Road Tunnel (SMART) motorway, the first-of-its-kind dual-purpose tunnel in the world.MMC continues to make inroads in the construction industry, securing key civil and infrastructure projects in the country namely Langat Centralised Sewerage Treatment Plant, Langat 2 Water Treatment Plant, civil and infrastructure works for RAPID Pengerang Cogeneration Plant. Additionally, MMC has a 20% effective interest in Borneo Highway PDP Sdn Bhd (BHP) which has been appointed as PDP for the Sabah Pan Borneo Highway Project.

In other businesses, MMC owns Aliran Ihsan Resources Berhad, a water treatment plant operator and Senai Airport Terminal Services Sdn Bhd, the operator of Senai International Airport in Johor Bahru; a major aviation hub and the main air transportation gateway to Iskandar Malaysia. Additionally, MMC’s Group Property arm manages close to 6,000 acres of industrial developments in Iskandar Malaysia, Johor and Kulim, Kedah, namely Senai Airport City, Tanjung Bin Petrochemical & Maritime Industrial Centre (TBPMIC) and Northern Technocity in Kulim. The Senai Airport City, TBPMIC and NTC (NTC) developments come under the ambit of Group Property’s three operating companies – Senai Airport City Sdn Bhd, Seaport Worldwide Sdn Bhd and Northern Technocity Sdn Bhd respectively.

April 23: It was another fantastic week for the Asian Tour as Rahil Gangjee ended a 14-year title drought at the Panasonic Open Golf Championship. We take a look back at the happenings on and off the course. 

1. When he was young Rahil Gangjee was asked to choose between several sports including cricket and football but he chose golf because he liked how he would be rewarded with a good personal performance. He also harboured hopes of becoming a race horse jockey but was persuaded by his father not to pursue his ambitions because it was too ‘dangerous’.

2. The Japanese sure love their golf and who can blame them considering the drama at the Panasonic Open Golf Championship. It was one of the best attended events with over 22,000 spectators coming to watch the tournament. Close to 10,000 people came to the course on the final da

3. The 17th gallery hole was modelled after the Waste Management Phoenix Open on the PGA Tour. It was a remarkable experience for fans as they were encouraged to be ‘loud’. The atmosphere isn’t something which is usually seen in Asia.

4. Rahil is one of the most loveable players on the Asian Tour. He is popular among his peers, fans and staff because of his easy-going and bubbly personality.

5. It was a long battle on the Panasonic Swing ranking but Shiv Kapur finally prevailed after finishing tied 53 at the Panasonic Open Golf Championship. He topped the Panasonic Swing ranking with 2922.90 points to win US$70,000 while Rahil Gangjee took home an extra pay cheque of US$50,000 for finishing second in the Panasonic Swing. Rattanon Wannasrichan of Thailand pocketed US$30,000 for third place.

Ends.

Pattaya, Thailand, December 28: Five players carded four-under-par 67 to share the lead after round one of the Royal Cup, which is contested at the Phoenix Gold Golf and Country Club in Pattaya, Thailand. 

27 golfers are within three shots of the lead.

Newlywed Gaganjeet Bhullar of India enjoyed a bogey free round, highlighted by birdies on holes six, seven, 10 and 11. The 29-year-old Indian did not have ample time to prepare for the US$500,000 tournament as he arrived in Thailand the previous night. However, he played on the same course last year and after five holes, he adapted to the set up.

Jazz Janewattananond of Thailand was in a similar situation as Bhullar and enjoyed a similar result. The Thai hotshot did not let the wet course conditions affect his swing and rhythm, as he traded five birdies against just one bogey to sign for a 67.

Shiv Kapur of India got jolted into a competitive mindset after his bogey on the 14th, his fifth hole of the round. Kapur, who recently welcomed the birth of his daughter, went on to card four birdies over seven holes before stringing a series of pars to close the round.

Panuphol Pittayarat of Thailand started his tournament in magnificent fashion as he carded two birdies and an eagle to score a 31 at the turn. His back nine though, was relatively less dramatic. He missed out on closing the day with the outright lead after bogeying the 18th.

Compatriot Raththee Sirithanakunsak stood out as the only golfer to score two eagles on Thursday. He did so at two par-five holes, the sixth and 16th. The 28-year-old golfer, who also carded three birdies, would have had a sensational round if not for the bogeys on second, seventh and 17th.

Did you know:

• Gaganjeet Bhullar is the first player to win eight titles on the Asian Tour before turning 30. He has three wire-to-wire victories so far.
• After missing the mark at Qualifying School, Jazz Janewattananond played at the Bashundhara Bangladesh Open in February and won it. He went on to notch five top-10s this year.
• Shiv Kapur bounced back from liver surgery and dengue fever to win two tournaments in 2017, the Yeangder Heritage and Panasonic Open India.
• Panuphol Pittayarat turned professional when he was 14 years old and he won his maiden Asian Tour title this year, at the Indonesia Open.
• The Royal Cup is the last tournament in 2017. It features no cut offers a prize purse of US$500,000.

Player Interview:

Gaganjeet Bhullar (Ind) – First Round 67 (-4) 

I had a good, stable round. I hit the ball really well. I gave myself a lot of birdie opportunities but because I misread the speed of the greens, I missed some of them. Overall, it’s a decent start to the tournament.

I actually played without a practice round as I arrived last night, but because I played here last year, I have a rough idea of what’s going on at the course. It took me a few holes to get used to the speed and the slopes. By hole five, I was a little more confident and comfortable. I’m looking forward to the next three days.

My chip-in on seventh was quite special. I hit a six-iron and I just missed pin high right, on the right edge of the green. It was a tricky, quick chip and I was fortunate enough to hole it.

Jazz Janewattananond (Tha) – First Round 67 (-4)

I am happy with my first-round score. I had a little time to practice and prepare for the tournament as I flew in last night. The course was quite wet from the rain, but my plan is still to hit the fairways and greens for my birdie chances.

For the next round, I will stick with my game plan. It is always good to play in the tournament that has no cut as it takes pressure off. So, I will try to have fun with my golf and play great.

Shiv Kapur (Ind) – First Round 67 (-4)

I started off striking the ball very well and I’ve left quite a few shots out there. I putted 31 times and shot 67, which means that I’ve done very well when it comes to ball striking.

I made a good par save on the last from the bunker. When you hole a good putt on the last hole, it always leaves a good taste in the mouth.

My bogey on the 14th got me to re-focus and think. I told myself, “you’re playing well, but you have to buckle down.” This is especially so, when you haven’t played for some time and your sharpness isn’t there. I bounced back with a birdie on 15th, which set the tone for the rest of the day.

Panuphol Pittayarat (Tha) – First round 67 (-4)

Today I played well on the front nine with an eagle and two birdies and I scored five-under-par going into the last hole. But, I made a mistake with my bad second shot and ended up with a bogey.

The course is challenging, the pin positions are tough and it is windy sometimes. Last year at the King’s Cup, I missed the cut. This year the tournament has no cut. So, I play with no pressure and I try to enjoy playing golf as well as do my best.

Scores after round 1 of the Royal Cup being played at the par 71, 6764 Yards Phoenix Gold GCC course (am – denotes amateur):

67 – Shiv KAPUR (IND), Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA), Raththee SIRITHANAKUNSAK (THA), Panuphol PITTAYARAT (THA), Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND).

68 – Prom MEESAWAT (THA), Poom SAKSANSIN (THA), LU Wei-chih (TPE), Namchok TANTIPOKHAKUL (THA), CHAN Shih-chang (TPE).

69 – Poosit SUPUPRAMAI (THA), John CATLIN (USA), Antonio LASCUNA (PHI), Natipong SRITHONG (THA), Peradol PANYATHANASEDH (THA), Thaworn WIRATCHANT (THA), Wisut ARTJANAWAT (THA), Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA), Jbe KRUGER (RSA).

70 – Chirat JIRASUWAN (THA), Nattawat SUVAJANAKORN (THA), Jyoti RANDHAWA (IND), Pasavee LERTVILAI (THA), Thanpisit OMSIN (THA), Ben LEONG (MAS), Tirawat KAEWSIRIBANDIT (THA), Chapchai NIRAT (THA), Khalin JOSHI (IND), Somsak KAOPRATUM (THA), Pavit TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA), Phachara KHONGWATMAI (THA), Pijit PETCHKASEM (THA).

71 – Kwanchai TANNIN (THA), Somprad RATTANASUWAN (THA), Chaiphat KOONMARK (THA), Terry PILKADARIS (AUS), Donlaphatchai NIYOMCHON (THA), Suttijet KOORATANAPISAN (THA), Sorachut HANSAPIBAN (THA), Scott HEND (AUS).

72 – Jakraphan PREMSIRIGORN (THA), Chanachok DEJPIRATANAMONGKOL (THA), Pannakorn UTHAIPAS (THA), Nicholas FUNG (MAS), Chinnarat PHADUNGSIL (THA), Danny CHIA (MAS), Tawan PHONGPHUN (THA), Prayad MARKSAENG (THA), Ratchapol JANTAVARA (THA).

73 – Piya SWANGARUNPORN (THA), Boonchu RUANGKIT (THA), Thepbodin AMARANAN (THA), Nitithorn THIPPONG (THA), Thammanoon SRIROJ (THA), Settee PRAKONGVECH (THA), Pawin INGKHAPRADIT (THA), Panuwat MUENLEK (THA), Arnond VONGVANIJ (THA), Danthai BOONMA (THA), Worrasorn SUWANPANANG (THA), Atthaphon SRIBOONKAEW (THA), Chawalit PLAPHOL (THA).

74 – Meechok PHANTHARAK (THA), Nattapong PUTTA (THA), Itthipat BURANATANYARAT (THA).

75 – Jaturon DUANGPHAICHOOM (THA), Chonlatit CHUENBOONNGAM (THA), Rattanon WANNASRICHAN (THA), Giwhan KIM (KOR), Tawit POLTHAI (THA), Kasidit LEPKURTE (THA).

76 – WANG Wei-lun (TPE).

77 – Naras LUANGPHETCHARAPORN (THA), Natthapong NIYOMCHON (THA).

78 – Ronnachai JAMNONG (THA).

79 – Udorn DUANGDECHA (THA).

80 – Pattalit THANOMSING (THA).

86 – Jomyoot GEETONG (THA).

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), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), FENIX XCell (Official Apparel Supplier), Titleist (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.

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Shah Alam, Malaysia, December 22: After winning the Asian Tour Order of Merit, Malaysian star Gavin Green will turn his attention to the EurAsia Cup presented by DRB-HICOM where he will represent Team Asia.

The 23-year-old enjoyed a superb 2017 season where he won his first Asian Tour title, was crowned Asia’s number one and subsequently voted as the Players’ Player of the Year.

Following a breakthrough year, the talented Malaysian will be part of a strong Team Asia led by captain Arjun Atwal of India who will go up against Thomas Bjorn’s Team Europe at the Glenmarie Golf and Country Club from January 12 to 14.

Green will be among six debutants in the 12-man Team Asia but he believes his team has the talent to cause an upset against Team Europe, who won the last edition of the EurAsia Cup. It was a 10-10 draw in the first showpiece in 2014.

“This will be something very new for me but it will be a great honour to represent Asia. It is a very young team but there are also a lot of young guys with a lot of experience playing in the big Tours and in Majors. It will be a good event for us to learn and maybe kick some butt,” Green smiled.

He will put his faith on captain Atwal to lead the team to victory. “Arjun is a great captain because he has played and won on the PGA Tour. He has put together a very strong team. You have to play solid all year to qualify for the EurAsia Cup so it is a great opportunity for all of us.

“I think we will learn a lot from this against a very strong Team Europe. It is good to see where we stand and it will be even better if we can go up against them. It is a mind game. If we get our minds right, it will be a good fight,” said Green.

The EurAsia Cup will be played at the Glenmarie Gardens course, a venue where Green finished second in 2015 and won on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) last year.

“I’m comfortable on that course because you can blast driver. Getting off to good starts is important. It is very funny in team match play. When you are up, it gives good vibes to the team and it somehow spills over. So we really need to get off to a good start and see where it leads us,” said the Malaysian.

Green will be joined by compatriot Nicholas Fung, Japan’s Yuta Ikeda, Hideto Tanihara, China’s Li Haotong, India’s Anirban Lahiri, S.S.P. Chawrasia, Poom Saksansin of Thailand, Kiradech Aphibarnrat, Phachara Khongwatmai, Korea’s Byeonghun An and Sunghoon Kang.

Team Europe will feature Rafa Cabrera-Bello, Paul Casey, Paul Dunne, Ross Fisher, Matthew Fitzpatrick, Tommy Fleetwood, Tyrrell Hatton, Alex Levy, Alex Noren, Thomas Pieters, Henrik Stenson and Bernd Wiesberger.

The EurAsia Cup will feature 24 matches, with day one showcasing six Fourball matches, followed by six Foursomes matches and 12 Singles matches on the third day.

Ticket sales are now open. You can purchase the EurAsia Cup presented by DRB-HICOM tickets here: https://www.ticketpro.com.my/sports/2231222-Eurasia-Cup-2018.html

Ends.

About DRB-HICOM

DRB-HICOM Berhad (“DRB-HICOM”) is one of Malaysia’s leading conglomerates with core businesses in the Automotive, Services & Education, as well as Property sectors. With more than 90 active companies in its stable and over 59,000 employees group-wide, DRB-HICOM’s aim is to continue adding value and propelling the nation’s development. In the Automotive sector, DRB-HICOM is involved in the manufacturing, assembly and distribution of passenger and commercial vehicles, including the national motorcycle. In Services & Education, DRB-HICOM is involved in various businesses, including concession and financial-related services. In Property, DRB-HICOM is involved in residential and commercial developments.

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), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), FENIX XCell (Official Apparel Supplier), Titleist (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.

Please visit us at:

www.wp-asiantour.ocs-sport.com

www.facebook.com/asiantourgolf

www.twitter.com/asiantourgolf

www.youtube.com/theasiantour

www.weibo.com/asiantourgolf

About the European Tour

The European Tour celebrates men’s professional golf on a global stage. In 2017, the European Tour International Schedule features a minimum of 47 tournaments in 26 countries, including eight Rolex Series events, all part of the Race to Dubai.Celebrating the global connectivity of the European Tour and Dubai, the Race to Dubai is a season-long competition to crown the European Tour’s Number One player, an honour which in 2016 went to Sweden’s Henrik Stenson for the second time, and which since 2009 has also been achieved three times by Rory McIlroy, as well as by Lee Westwood, Martin Kaymer and Luke Donald. Formerly known as the Order of Merit, points are accumulated based on prize money won, with the top 10 ranked players at the end of the season sharing a $5million Race to Dubai bonus pool.Since its formation in 1972, the European Tour has witnessed 26 Members celebrate a total of 52 Major Championship titles between them, enjoyed ten Members attaining the pinnacle of World Number One and has celebrated its diversity as players from 36 different countries have won on the Tour.The European Tour also manages the Challenge Tour, which featured 28 tournaments in 22 countries in 2016, and the Senior Tour, which featured 13 tournaments in nine countries in 2016. It is also the Managing Partner of Ryder Cup Europe, the body which, alongside the PGA of America, administers golf’s greatest team contest, The Ryder Cup. The European Tour broadcasts live coverage of its tournaments to more than 490 million homes in more than 150 countries every week, generating in excess of 2,200 global broadcast hours for each event. It also enjoys the support of many of the world’s leading business brands with Rolex, BMW, Emirates and Titleist as Official Partners.

About MMC Corporation Berhad

MMC Corporation Berhad (MMC) is a leading utilities and infrastructure group with diversified businesses under three divisions, namely ports & logistics, energy & utilities and engineering & construction.Its key businesses under the Ports and Logistics division include the operations of Port of Tanjung Pelepas Sdn Bhd, Johor Port Berhad, Northport (Malaysia) Bhd, Penang Port Sdn Bhd, Kontena Nasional Berhad and JP Logistics. Internationally, MMC has an associate stake in Red Sea Gateway Terminal Company Limited, a container port terminal within the Jeddah Islamic Port, Saudi Arabia.Under the Energy & Utilities division, MMC is the single largest shareholder of both Malakoff Corporation Berhad and Gas Malaysia Berhad.MMC’s Engineering & Construction division has further established itself in the sector with a leading role as the Project Delivery Partner (PDP) and underground works package contractor for the 51km Klang Valley Mass Rapid Transit (KVMRT) project (Sungai Buloh-Kajang Line) and Line 2 project (Sungai Buloh-Serdang-Putrajaya Line). Prior to this, MMC has successfully completed the 329km Ipoh-Padang Besar Electrified Double Tracking Project as well as the innovative Stormwater Management and Road Tunnel (SMART) motorway, the first-of-its-kind dual-purpose tunnel in the world.MMC continues to make inroads in the construction industry, securing key civil and infrastructure projects in the country namely Langat Centralised Sewerage Treatment Plant, Langat 2 Water Treatment Plant, civil and infrastructure works for RAPID Pengerang Cogeneration Plant. Additionally, MMC has a 20% effective interest in Borneo Highway PDP Sdn Bhd (BHP) which has been appointed as PDP for the Sabah Pan Borneo Highway Project.In other businesses, MMC owns Aliran Ihsan Resources Berhad, a water treatment plant operator and Senai Airport Terminal Services Sdn Bhd, the operator of Senai International Airport in Johor Bahru; a major aviation hub and the main air transportation gateway to Iskandar Malaysia. Additionally, MMC’s Group Property arm manages close to 6,000 acres of industrial developments in Iskandar Malaysia, Johor and Kulim, Kedah, namely Senai Airport City, Tanjung Bin Petrochemical & Maritime Industrial Centre (TBPMIC) and Northern Technocity in Kulim. The Senai Airport City, TBPMIC and NTC (NTC) developments come under the ambit of Group Property’s three operating companies – Senai Airport City Sdn Bhd, Seaport Worldwide Sdn Bhd and Northern Technocity Sdn Bhd respectively.