Chachoengsao, Bangkok, June 10: Panuphol Pittayarat of Thailand claimed a special victory at the Thailand Open after closing with an even-par 70 at the US$300,000 Asian Tour event on Sunday. 

The bubbly Thai became the fifth local player to lift the prestigious Thailand Open trophy after holding off the strong challenge from countryman Poom Saksansin at the Thai Country Club.

The 25-year-old Panuphol battled nerves heading into the final six holes where he bogeyed 13 and 18, and almost found the water hazard with his third shot on the par-five 17th hole. He held on to victory after signing for a 13-under-par 267 total.   

The baby-faced Poom, who represented Asia at the EurAsia Cup earlier this year, overtook the lead early in the round but struggled to maintain his title charge following bogeys on 10 and 12.

He ended his campaign on a 70 to settle for second place, one shot back of the champion Panuphol while 20-year-old Sarit Suwannarut enjoyed his best result on the Asian Tour after securing third place.

The victory was especially sweet for Panuphol as he won the revered Thailand Open trophy on his home course. The victory also marked a return to form for the Thai who came into the tournament following four straight missed cuts.

With the win Panuphol also took the early lead in the 2018/2019 Panasonic Swing race.

Did you know?

• Panuphol is the fifth Thai player to win his National Open since 1965. This is the second time in the tournament’s history that the Thailand Open has welcomed back-to-back Thai champions since 1991 (Suthep Meesawat) and 1992 (Boonchu Ruangkit).
• This is Panuphol’s second Asian Tour title. He won last year’s Indonesia Open in October. His second victory comes after playing in 11 Asian Tour events.
• He wobbled early in the round when he bogeyed the sixth hole to relinquish his overnight lead but recovered nicely with a pair of birdies on holes eight and nine. He said those birdies boosted his confidence.
• He earned 14 Official World Golf Ranking points with the win and moved the 12th place on the Habitat for Humanity Standings after earning US$54,000 for his win.
• He is also the second Thai player to win on the Asian Tour in 2018 after Kiradech Aphibarnrat’s victory at the ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth in February.
• Panuphol is playing in his eighth season on the Asian Tour. He came close to winning many times before winning his first title last year. He said the victory ‘helped him learn how to win a tournament.’
• Poom continued to struggle with his driver. He has changed six drivers this year and admits that he has no confidence when pulling out the big stick.
• He enjoyed a hot putting streak after holing eight consecutive one putts from the first hole. He ended the day with 25 putts which matched his total putts in round one and round two.
• Poom has never won an event where he trailed heading into the last round. His last two Asian Tour victories came when he held the lead in the penultimate round.
• The hole-in-one prize of 10,000 Dragon Coins went unclaimed as no players aced the 16th hole at the Thai Country Club. Dragon, the world’s entertainment token which offers the best digital payment solutions, will enter its first foray into golf sponsorship at the Thailand Open.

Player quotes:

Panuphol Pittayara (Tha) – Final Round 70 (even), Total 267 (-13)

This means everything to me. This is my national trophy, my home course and this is where I practice. I’m very, very happy. I felt a bit of nerves coming down the stretch but I kept it cool and patient. I tried not to let the nerves affect my thinking, my game or feeling. I think I kept things under control pretty well.

This win is a dream come true. It is always every Thai golfers dream to win their National Open. It took a little bit longer for me to sleep last night but I managed to sleep!

Poom (Saksansin) didn’t make it easy for me out there. He is one of the best golfers from Thailand and Asia. He beat Paul Casey in a match play (at EurAsia Cup) and this is like me playing match play against him. I didn’t push myself but he gave me a hard time.

My two birdies on eight and nine gave me the pump and a lot of confidence. That told me that I could take this trophy home. That win at the Indonesia Open taught me how to win a golf tournament. Today I tried to go back to what I felt in Indonesia and tried to do the same. It came out great.

I learned a lot on the Asian Tour. The Tour has taught me so many stuff about golf and life. I didn’t graduate high school but the Asian Tour is one of my teachers. I have some status on the Japan Golf Tour but I will always play on the Asian Tour because it is my home tour.

Poom Saksansin (Tha) – Final Round 70 (even), Total 268 (-12)

I hit it very bad but my putting saved me. I’m not swinging it bad but it is more my confidence. I’m still scared to hit driver and I know that I need to fix it and gain more confidence. Honestly, I’m a little bit disappointed I didn’t win. I’m proud because it is my best result on the Asian Tour but I will continue to work on my game.

I know I was on top the leaderboard at one point but I had no confidence and I wasn’t playing good. I was putting good and I thought I had a good opportunity to force a play-off on the last hole. I read the wrong line and I missed my birdie chance. I finished second place so that’s okay because I keep my Asian Tour card.

Sarit Suwannarut (Tha) – Final Round 70 (even), Total 269 (-11)

It is a pretty awesome week. It was tough on the last day but I’m proud of my good finish. I felt a lot of pressure today but I handled it pretty well. It will be easier the next time I’m in the same position. It was a tough front nine and I didn’t make a putt at all.

Scores after round 4 of the Thailand Open being played at the par 70, 7060 Yards Thai CC course (am – denotes amateur):

267 – Panuphol PITTAYARAT (THA) 67-64-66-70.

268 – Poom SAKSANSIN (THA) 66-66-66-70.

269 – Sarit SUWANNARUT (THA) 65-65-69-70.

270 – Natipong SRITHONG (THA) 64-69-70-67.

271 – Chapchai NIRAT (THA) 68-68-64-71.

272 – Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA) 65-69-70-68, David GLEESON (AUS) 67-69-68-68, Scott VINCENT (ZIM) 69-67-67-69, Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA) 66-69-67-70, Scott HEND (AUS) 69-66-66-71.

273 – Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA) 67-69-68-69, Kurt KITAYAMA (USA) 67-67-66-73.

274 – Pawin INGKHAPRADIT (THA) 70-67-71-66, Chikkarangappa S. (IND) 65-70-70-69, Pavit TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 69-66-69-70, Jake HIGGINBOTTOM (AUS) 67-69-68-70.

275 – Prom MEESAWAT (THA) 69-67-69-70.

276 – Charng-Tai SUDSOM (THA) 68-69-70-69, Rahil GANGJEE (IND) 71-69-66-70, Jack HARRISON (ENG) 69-69-68-70, Rory HIE (INA) 67-72-65-72, Doyeob MUN (KOR) 70-69-65-72, Miguel CARBALLO (ARG) 67-71-66-72.

277 – Tirawat KAEWSIRIBANDIT (THA) 67-71-70-69, Ben CAMPBELL (NZL) 68-70-69-70, Jarin TODD (USA) 68-71-66-72.

About Panasonic Swing

The Panasonic Swing was initiated by the Asian Tour and the Panasonic Corporation to reinforce Panasonic’s support for professional golf across the region when it came on board as the Asian Tour’s Official Consumer Electronics in May 2017.

The Panasonic Swing ranking is based on an aggregate point ranking earned by players at selected tournaments in Asia. The top-three finishers in the Panasonic Swing final ranking will earn US$70,000, US$50,000 and US$30,000 respectively via a bonus pool reward scheme.

The inaugural Panasonic Swing, launched at the 2017 Thailand Open before concluding at the 2018 Panasonic Open Japan, saw India’s Shiv Kapur winning the Panasonic Swing with total points of 2922.90. His compatriot Rahil Gangjee came in second with 2805.00 while Rattanon Wannasrichan of Thailand finished third on 2380.50.

The second edition of the Panasonic Swing is set to kick off again at the 2018 Thailand Open, which will be staged at the Thai Country Club from June 7 to 10. It will feature tournaments in India, Malaysia and Indonesia before concluding at the Panasonic Open Japan in 2019.

About Thailand Open

The prestigious Thailand Open returned on the Asian Tour schedule in 2017 after an eight-year lapse. The Thailand Open, which was inaugurated in 1965, is one of the oldest National Opens in Asia.

Rattanon Wannasrichan became the fourth Thai player to win the Thailand Open when he claimed his breakthrough last year. The three other Thais are Suthep Meesawat (1991), Boonchu Ruangkit (1992 and 2004) and Prayad Marksaeng (2013).

Sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the Thailand Golf Association, the Thailand Open will return to the Thai Country Club for its second straight edition on the Asian Tour from June 7 to 10.

The Thailand Open is proudly sponsored by Panasonic, Singha, Dragon, Novotel Bangkok Bangna, Srixon and Ricoh.

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.

Chachoengsao, Bangkok, June 9: Home favourite Panuphol Pittayarat birdied the last two holes for a four-under-par 66 to pull one shot clear in the third round of the Thailand Open on Saturday. 

Playing on his home course, the bubbly Panuphol returned with a bogey free card to lead on 13-under-par 197 and put himself in prime position to win his second Asian Tour title at the Thai Country Club.

Thailand’s Poom Saksansin trailed closely in second place after matching Panuphol’s 66 while overnight leader Sarit Suwannarut posted a 69 to lie in third place, two shots from the lead at the US$300,000 Asian Tour event.

Poom Saksansin of Thailand

Asian Tour rookie Kurt Kitayama stayed in the title hunt following a 66 to share fourth place with four-time Asian Tour winner, Chapchai Nirat, who fired a blistering 64 for a 200 total.

The 25-year-old Panuphol, who won his first Asian Tour title last year, was neck-to-neck with Poom before he seized the outright lead by holing a 10-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole.

Poom, a two-time Asian Tour winner, also birdied the last to stay in contention of becoming the fifth Thai player to win their National Open since 1965.

Did you know?

• Panuphol enjoyed his first bogey-free round this week. After 54 holes, he has only dropped three shots.
• After missing the last four cuts, Panuphol is now in the running to win the Thailand Open after finishing fourth last year.
• This is Panuphol’s best three round score since going 16-under in the penultimate round of the 2017 Indonesia Open. He went on to win the tournament.
• Since his win in Indonesia, Panuphol has struggled to rediscover his winning form. His best result since the win was a tied 16th place finish at the Hero Indian Open in March.
• There will be extra added value for the winner this week as the Thailand Open marks the start of the 2018-2019 Panasonic Swing. Panuphol finished ninth in the inaugural Panasonic Swing which ended in April while Poom settled for 39th place.
• Poom is a two-time Asian Tour winner. He has changed the driver six times this year after struggling with erratic tee shots. He showed huge signs of improvement today after finding 13 out of 14 fairways.
• His three-day total of 12-under-par matched his best score at the Take Solutions Masters in India where he went on to win the tournament. He has never won a tournament while trailing after 54 holes.
• He was one of the standout performers at the EurAsia Cup earlier this year where he contributed two points which included defeating Paul Casey in the Singles matches.
• Only four Thai players have won their National Opens since 1965. The last time the Thailand Open had two back-to-back Thai winners was in 1991 (Suthep Meesawat) and 1992 (Boonchu Ruangkit).
• After 54 holes, the hole-in-one prize of 10,000 Dragon Coins on the 16th hole is still unclaimed. Dragon, the world’s entertainment token which offers the best digital payment solutions, will enter its first foray into golf sponsorship at the Thailand Open.

Sarit Suwannarut of Thailand

Player quotes:

Panuphol Pittayarat (Tha) – Third Round 66 (-4), Total 197 (-13)

The first 16 holes was very tight. It was hot and humid after the rain suspension but the two last birdies made my day.

This is home for me and everything here makes me feel comfortable. I really enjoy playing and practising here. I know the course well but you have to be patient. It is golf and it doesn’t mean that you will do well on your home course every day. You have a little bit of advantage.

My win in Indonesia taught me how to win a golf tournament. I’m going to go out tomorrow and try to have fun.

I’m happy to be in contention and I’m happy that I’m playing well. I just want to be on top on Sunday. I’m not surprised with how well I’ve played. I missed four cuts before this week but it doesn’t mean that I played badly. I’ve been playing well but it just doesn’t reflect in my score.

The birdie on the last was nice. I hit a perfect drive and approach. My (10 feet) birdie putt slowed down a bit but it eventually fell into the hole so that was nice.

Poom Saksansin (Tha) – Third Round 66 (-4), Total 198 (-12)

I feel good because I finished under-par. I putted very good but my iron wasn’t as good as I liked it to be. Honestly, I’m scared to hit driver so I’m hitting more fade shots to control my ball. I found a lot more fairways today.

I feel very excited but I cannot think ahead. My plan is to try and finish under-par. I want to win the Thailand Open but if I don’t, I hope another Thai player will win it.

Sarit Suwannarut (Tha) – Third round 69 (-1), Total 199 (-11)

It wasn’t my day but I reached my goal of finishing under-par. My driving and second shot were not good. I got to hit it better tomorrow. I’m not disappointed because I felt a lot of pressure. I didn’t play that badly.

I want to try and play today. I played with Panuphol and Poom today and I know them quite well. The round was quite chill so I hope to keep it that way. When you play with somebody else and he is serious, I would be like ‘please talk to me’ but it was fun today.

Kurt Kitayama of United States

Scores after round 3 of the Thailand Open being played at the par 70, 7060 Yards Thai CC course (am – denotes amateur):

197 – Panuphol PITTAYARAT (THA) 67-64-66.

198 – Poom SAKSANSIN (THA) 66-66-66.

199 – Sarit SUWANNARUT (THA) 65-65-69.

200 – Chapchai NIRAT (THA) 68-68-64, Kurt KITAYAMA (USA) 67-67-66.

201 – Scott HEND (AUS) 69-66-66.

202 – Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA) 66-69-67.

203 – Scott VINCENT (ZIM) 69-67-67, Natipong SRITHONG (THA) 64-69-70.

204 – Miguel CARBALLO (ARG) 67-71-66, Doyeob MUN (KOR) 70-69-65, Rory HIE (INA) 67-72-65, David GLEESON (AUS) 67-69-68, Jake HIGGINBOTTOM (AUS) 67-69-68, Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA) 67-69-68, Pavit TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 69-66-69, Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA) 65-69-70.

205 – Kammalas NAMUANGRUK (am, THA) 68-70-67, Jarin TODD (USA) 68-71-66, Andrew MARTIN (AUS) 71-67-67, Prom MEESAWAT (THA) 69-67-69, Daisuke KATAOKA (JPN) 70-66-69, Piya SWANGARUNPORN (THA) 72-68-65, Adam BLYTH (AUS) 66-69-70, Chikkarangappa S. (IND) 65-70-70.

About Panasonic Swing

The Panasonic Swing was initiated by the Asian Tour and the Panasonic Corporation to reinforce Panasonic’s support for professional golf across the region when it came on board as the Asian Tour’s Official Consumer Electronics in May 2017.

The Panasonic Swing ranking is based on an aggregate point ranking earned by players at selected tournaments in Asia. The top-three finishers in the Panasonic Swing final ranking will earn US$70,000, US$50,000 and US$30,000 respectively via a bonus pool reward scheme.

The inaugural Panasonic Swing, launched at the 2017 Thailand Open before concluding at the 2018 Panasonic Open Japan, saw India’s Shiv Kapur winning the Panasonic Swing with total points of 2922.90. His compatriot Rahil Gangjee came in second with 2805.00 while Rattanon Wannasrichan of Thailand finished third on 2380.50.

The second edition of the Panasonic Swing is set to kick off again at the 2018 Thailand Open, which will be staged at the Thai Country Club from June 7 to 10. It will feature tournaments in India, Malaysia and Indonesia before concluding at the Panasonic Open Japan in 2019.

About Thailand Open

The prestigious Thailand Open returned on the Asian Tour schedule in 2017 after an eight-year lapse. The Thailand Open, which was inaugurated in 1965, is one of the oldest National Opens in Asia.

Rattanon Wannasrichan became the fourth Thai player to win the Thailand Open when he claimed his breakthrough last year. The three other Thais are Suthep Meesawat (1991), Boonchu Ruangkit (1992 and 2004) and Prayad Marksaeng (2013).

Sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the Thailand Golf Association, the Thailand Open will return to the Thai Country Club for its second straight edition on the Asian Tour from June 7 to 10.

The Thailand Open is proudly sponsored by Panasonic, Singha, Dragon, Novotel Bangkok Bangna, Srixon and Ricoh.

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.

Chachoengsao, Bangkok, June 8: Little known Sarit Suwannarut of Thailand emerged as the surprise package at the US$300,000 Thailand Open after grabbing the second round clubhouse lead on Friday.  

Playing in only his second Asian Tour tournament, the big-hitting 20-year-old averaged 322.5 yards en-route to a second straight five-under-par 65 as he leads the weather interrupted tournament on 10-under-par 130.

The Thailand Open was suspended at 6.45pm due to darkness after thunderstorms halted play for more than an hour in the morning. A total of five players will return on Saturday at 6.45am to complete round two.  

Panuphol Pittayarat of Thailand

Sarit, who joined the play-for-pay ranks earlier this year, produced a flawless card highlighted by five birdies to lead by one-shot from Panuphol Pittayarat, who equalled the week’s low round of 64, on his home course at the Thai Country Club.

After changing his driver for the sixth time, Poom Saksansin fired a solid 66 to charge into contention for a third Asian Tour victory on a 132 total.

The little known Sarit pursued his studies at the Virginia Tech University in the United States last year before returning to Thailand to pursue his golf career. He is a regular on the local Tour and has won two out of three long drive competitions in 2018.  

Playing without any expectations this week, Sarit has only dropped one shot in 36 holes and is in prime position to win his first Asian Tour title.

Did you know?

• Sarit has only dropped one shot in 36 holes. He has 11 birdies so far and was flawless in the second round.
• The young Thai is the only player to reach double digits at the halfway stage of the Thailand Open.
• Sarit is known for his big-hitting game. He took advantage of his booming drives where he averaged 322.5 yards. He has also won two longest drive competitions held on the local circuit this year.
• Sarit is among a strong Thai representation on the leaderboard. Five Thai players occupy the top six spots with fifth placed Kurt Kitayama of the United States being the only non-Thai player.
• He studied and played golf at the Virginia Tech University in the United States in 2016 but returned to Thailand earlier this year to pursue his dream of becoming a professional golfer.
• Sarit was nicknamed ‘safe’ by his mother after she suffered a miscarriage. She wanted Sarit to be safe during her pregnancy and gave him the moniker. He is the only child in the family.
• Panuphol is enjoying a return to form after missing the last four cuts. He will look to better his fourth place finish at the Thailand Open last year.
• His score of six-under-par 64 equalled the low round set by overnight leader Natipong Sritong.
• Panuphol struggled off the tees today. He found five out of 14 fairways but bounced back with a hot putter. He totalled 24 putts today.
• Poom is a two-time Asian Tour winner. He has been struggling with the driver this year which has resulted in him changing the big stick six times.
• He was one of the standout performers at the EurAsia Cup earlier this year where he contributed two points en-route to defeating Paul Casey in the Singles matches.

Poom Saksansin of Thailand

Player quotes:

Sarit Suwannarut (Tha) – Second Round 65 (-5), Total 130 (-10)

I feel pretty good about my game. I feel good about everything. My putting was pretty good the last two days and I made a lot of long putts. I’m a bit surprised my putting is this good but it will be the key this week. I want to try and go out there and have fun. I’m not thinking about winning.

I’m feeling a lot of pressure. I just came back from the United States because I didn’t play good golf there so I wanted to come here and become a professional golfer. I went to college in the United States (Virginia Tech University).

I’m going to talk to my friend, who is my caddy this week, to ease the pressure. I’m very excited to be leading the tournament. I think it is good to be a ‘no name’ here because nobody is looking for you. You just play your game.

On the local tour, they have the long drive competitions during the tournaments. I actually won it twice in three matches. I played football when I was seven or eight but I injured myself and I could barely walk. When I got hurt, I watched my father play golf and I took his club and hit the ball on my first try. That’s how why my parents said I should start playing golf.

My nickname is ‘Safe’ because my mom lost my brother while she was pregnant. She wanted me to be safe so I got this nickname. I’m the only child in the family.

Panuphol Pittayarat (Tha) – Second Round 64 (-6), Total 131 (-9)

I’m very happy to be on nine-under especially on my home course. I didn’t expect to finish birdie, birdie but I went into the restaurant (during the rain suspension) and had two boiled eggs. When I returned to the course, I finished with two birdie! If it is one egg for one birdie then I will have eight eggs tomorrow (laughs).

It wasn’t a good start for me this year. I haven’t been playing well in Japan. It is golf and you have to keep trying and practising. Hopefully you find what you need to do and hang on to it.

I hit it in the right rough on the eighth hole and hit it to about 25 feet and holed that birdie putt. I hit it in the right rough on the ninth again and hit it to five feet and holed that.

Poom Saksansin (Tha) – Second Round 66 (-4), Total 132 (-8) 

I hit my irons really good today. My driver hasn’t been working but I’ve fixed it and now it is getting better. I’ve changed many drivers this year. This month I changed four drivers so in total it has been six new drivers.

My driving has been so poor and after I changed one driver, I started to change shafts and couldn’t stop changing drivers (laughs). This course suits my game. It isn’t long and the fairways are quite tight.

This is my National Open and it is the biggest golf tournament in my country. I really want to win this.

Kurt Kitayama of the United States

About Panasonic Swing

The Panasonic Swing was initiated by the Asian Tour and the Panasonic Corporation to reinforce Panasonic’s support for professional golf across the region when it came on board as the Asian Tour’s Official Consumer Electronics in May 2017.

The Panasonic Swing ranking is based on an aggregate point ranking earned by players at selected tournaments in Asia. The top-three finishers in the Panasonic Swing final ranking will earn US$70,000, US$50,000 and US$30,000 respectively via a bonus pool reward scheme.

The inaugural Panasonic Swing, launched at the 2017 Thailand Open before concluding at the 2018 Panasonic Open Japan, saw India’s Shiv Kapur winning the Panasonic Swing with total points of 2922.90. His compatriot Rahil Gangjee came in second with 2805.00 while Rattanon Wannasrichan of Thailand finished third on 2380.50.

The second edition of the Panasonic Swing is set to kick off again at the 2018 Thailand Open, which will be staged at the Thai Country Club from June 7 to 10. It will feature tournaments in India, Malaysia and Indonesia before concluding at the Panasonic Open Japan in 2019.

About Thailand Open

The prestigious Thailand Open returned on the Asian Tour schedule in 2017 after an eight-year lapse. The Thailand Open, which was inaugurated in 1965, is one of the oldest National Opens in Asia.

Rattanon Wannasrichan became the fourth Thai player to win the Thailand Open when he claimed his breakthrough last year. The three other Thais are Suthep Meesawat (1991), Boonchu Ruangkit (1992 and 2004) and Prayad Marksaeng (2013).

Sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the Thailand Golf Association, the Thailand Open will return to the Thai Country Club for its second straight edition on the Asian Tour from June 7 to 10.

The Thailand Open is proudly sponsored by Panasonic, Singha, Dragon, Novotel Bangkok Bangna, Srixon and Ricoh.

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.

Chachoengsao, Bangkok, June 8: Little known Sarit Suwannarut of Thailand emerged as the surprise package at the US$300,000 Thailand Open after grabbing the second round clubhouse lead on Friday.  

Playing in only his second Asian Tour tournament, the big-hitting 20-year-old averaged 322.5 yards en-route to a second straight five-under-par 65 as he leads the weather interrupted tournament on 10-under-par 130.

The Thailand Open was suspended at 6.45pm due to darkness after thunderstorms halted play for more than an hour in the morning. A total of five players will return on Saturday at 6.45am to complete round two.  

Panuphol Pittayarat of Thailand

Sarit, who joined the play-for-pay ranks earlier this year, produced a flawless card highlighted by five birdies to lead by one-shot from Panuphol Pittayarat, who equalled the week’s low round of 64, on his home course at the Thai Country Club.

After changing his driver for the sixth time, Poom Saksansin fired a solid 66 to charge into contention for a third Asian Tour victory on a 132 total.

The little known Sarit pursued his studies at the Virginia Tech University in the United States last year before returning to Thailand to pursue his golf career. He is a regular on the local Tour and has won two out of three long drive competitions in 2018.  

Playing without any expectations this week, Sarit has only dropped one shot in 36 holes and is in prime position to win his first Asian Tour title.

Did you know?

• Sarit has only dropped one shot in 36 holes. He has 11 birdies so far and was flawless in the second round.
• The young Thai is the only player to reach double digits at the halfway stage of the Thailand Open.
• Sarit is known for his big-hitting game. He took advantage of his booming drives where he averaged 322.5 yards. He has also won two longest drive competitions held on the local circuit this year.
• Sarit is among a strong Thai representation on the leaderboard. Five Thai players occupy the top six spots with fifth placed Kurt Kitayama of the United States being the only non-Thai player.
• He studied and played golf at the Virginia Tech University in the United States in 2016 but returned to Thailand earlier this year to pursue his dream of becoming a professional golfer.
• Sarit was nicknamed ‘safe’ by his mother after she suffered a miscarriage. She wanted Sarit to be safe during her pregnancy and gave him the moniker. He is the only child in the family.
• Panuphol is enjoying a return to form after missing the last four cuts. He will look to better his fourth place finish at the Thailand Open last year.
• His score of six-under-par 64 equalled the low round set by overnight leader Natipong Sritong.
• Panuphol struggled off the tees today. He found five out of 14 fairways but bounced back with a hot putter. He totalled 24 putts today.
• Poom is a two-time Asian Tour winner. He has been struggling with the driver this year which has resulted in him changing the big stick six times.
• He was one of the standout performers at the EurAsia Cup earlier this year where he contributed two points en-route to defeating Paul Casey in the Singles matches.

Poom Saksansin of Thailand

Player quotes:

Sarit Suwannarut (Tha) – Second Round 65 (-5), Total 130 (-10)

I feel pretty good about my game. I feel good about everything. My putting was pretty good the last two days and I made a lot of long putts. I’m a bit surprised my putting is this good but it will be the key this week. I want to try and go out there and have fun. I’m not thinking about winning.

I’m feeling a lot of pressure. I just came back from the United States because I didn’t play good golf there so I wanted to come here and become a professional golfer. I went to college in the United States (Virginia Tech University).

I’m going to talk to my friend, who is my caddy this week, to ease the pressure. I’m very excited to be leading the tournament. I think it is good to be a ‘no name’ here because nobody is looking for you. You just play your game.

On the local tour, they have the long drive competitions during the tournaments. I actually won it twice in three matches. I played football when I was seven or eight but I injured myself and I could barely walk. When I got hurt, I watched my father play golf and I took his club and hit the ball on my first try. That’s how why my parents said I should start playing golf.

My nickname is ‘Safe’ because my mom lost my brother while she was pregnant. She wanted me to be safe so I got this nickname. I’m the only child in the family.

Panuphol Pittayarat (Tha) – Second Round 64 (-6), Total 131 (-9)

I’m very happy to be on nine-under especially on my home course. I didn’t expect to finish birdie, birdie but I went into the restaurant (during the rain suspension) and had two boiled eggs. When I returned to the course, I finished with two birdie! If it is one egg for one birdie then I will have eight eggs tomorrow (laughs).

It wasn’t a good start for me this year. I haven’t been playing well in Japan. It is golf and you have to keep trying and practising. Hopefully you find what you need to do and hang on to it.

I hit it in the right rough on the eighth hole and hit it to about 25 feet and holed that birdie putt. I hit it in the right rough on the ninth again and hit it to five feet and holed that.

Poom Saksansin (Tha) – Second Round 66 (-4), Total 132 (-8) 

I hit my irons really good today. My driver hasn’t been working but I’ve fixed it and now it is getting better. I’ve changed many drivers this year. This month I changed four drivers so in total it has been six new drivers.

My driving has been so poor and after I changed one driver, I started to change shafts and couldn’t stop changing drivers (laughs). This course suits my game. It isn’t long and the fairways are quite tight.

This is my National Open and it is the biggest golf tournament in my country. I really want to win this.

Kurt Kitayama of the United States

About Panasonic Swing

The Panasonic Swing was initiated by the Asian Tour and the Panasonic Corporation to reinforce Panasonic’s support for professional golf across the region when it came on board as the Asian Tour’s Official Consumer Electronics in May 2017.

The Panasonic Swing ranking is based on an aggregate point ranking earned by players at selected tournaments in Asia. The top-three finishers in the Panasonic Swing final ranking will earn US$70,000, US$50,000 and US$30,000 respectively via a bonus pool reward scheme.

The inaugural Panasonic Swing, launched at the 2017 Thailand Open before concluding at the 2018 Panasonic Open Japan, saw India’s Shiv Kapur winning the Panasonic Swing with total points of 2922.90. His compatriot Rahil Gangjee came in second with 2805.00 while Rattanon Wannasrichan of Thailand finished third on 2380.50.

The second edition of the Panasonic Swing is set to kick off again at the 2018 Thailand Open, which will be staged at the Thai Country Club from June 7 to 10. It will feature tournaments in India, Malaysia and Indonesia before concluding at the Panasonic Open Japan in 2019.

About Thailand Open

The prestigious Thailand Open returned on the Asian Tour schedule in 2017 after an eight-year lapse. The Thailand Open, which was inaugurated in 1965, is one of the oldest National Opens in Asia.

Rattanon Wannasrichan became the fourth Thai player to win the Thailand Open when he claimed his breakthrough last year. The three other Thais are Suthep Meesawat (1991), Boonchu Ruangkit (1992 and 2004) and Prayad Marksaeng (2013).

Sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the Thailand Golf Association, the Thailand Open will return to the Thai Country Club for its second straight edition on the Asian Tour from June 7 to 10.

The Thailand Open is proudly sponsored by Panasonic, Singha, Dragon, Novotel Bangkok Bangna, Srixon and Ricoh.

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.

Chachoengsao, Bangkok, June 7: Thailand’s Natipong Srithong seized the opening round lead at the Thailand Open on Thursday, just five days after completing his final examinations for a law degree.

The 24-year-old completed his studies at the Thammasat University in Thailand on Saturday before turning his focus to the US$300,000 tournament where he fired a six-under-par 64 to lead by one shot.

India’s Chikkarangappa S. produced his best round in 2018 to trail in second place alongside Jazz Janewattananond and Sarit Suwannarut of Thailand on matching 65s at the award-winning Thai Country Club.

Chikkarangappa S.

China’s Xiao Bowen, Australia’s Terry Pilkadaris and Thailand’s Poom Saksansin, who represented Team Asia at the EurAsia Cup earlier this year, were among nine players bunched up in tied fifth place on 66s.

Natipong, who won his first Asian Tour title at the 2015 Resorts World Manila Masters while pursuing his law degree, produced a flawless round highlighted by six birdies. The young Thai was surprised with his hot start after taking time off from golf to study for his examinations.

After working with his coach Vijay Divecha last week, Chikkarangappa played one of his best rounds which was only marred by a bogey on his final ninth hole where his tee shot hit a tree and found water. He narrowly missed his par putt to settle for a 65.

The 22-year-old Jazz, who has been juggling between tournaments in Europe and Asia, was also bogey-free as he put himself in position to launch a title assault for a second Asian Tour victory.  

Did you know? 

• Natipong struggled earlier in the year and was low on confidence before finishing tied second at the Asia-Pacific Classic in China in May.He admits that he was worried about his final examinations.
• In relation to par, Natipong matched his best score at the Thai Country Club where he fired a six-under in the final round of the 2017 Thailand Open. The course is playing to a par-70 this year as opposed to a par-71 last year.
• Natipong started on the 10th hole and produced three birdies in each half.
• He broke through in style when he won the 2015 Resorts World Manila Masters which was only his fourth event on the region’s premier Tour.
• Natipong said he was happy to complete his exams but when he graduates, he will still choose golf over becoming a lawyer.
• This was Chikkarangappa’s best opening round since shooting a 65 at the 2015 Take Solutions Masters on home soil.
• He went through an intensive two-day training with his coach in Bangalore last week to iron out his erratic golf game which resulted in four out of seven missed cuts in 2018.
• Chikkarangappa took advantage of a hot putter where he totalled 23 putts in a round of six birdies against one bogey.
• He ended the 2017 season as the last player to earn full playing rights on the 2018 Asian Tour season after finishing in 61st position on the Order of Merit.
• Jazz and Sarit ensured a strong Thai presence at the top of the leaderboard. Sarit charged into a share of second place after shooting four straight birdies from the 14th hole.
• Jazz won his first Asian Tour title at the Bangladesh Open last year. The victory was especially sweet for him as he finished outside the top-60 on the 2016 Order of Merit and missed the grade at the 2017 Qualifying School.
• He still holds the record as the youngest ever player to make the halfway cut at the 2010 Asian Tour International in Bangkok at the age of 14 years and 71 days

Player quotes:

Natipong Srithong (Tha) – First Round 64 (-6)

I feel very happy because last week I didn’t practice much. I was preparing for my final exams for my law degree. I’m so happy because I’ve finished my studies and I can focus on golf. I was surprised with my result today.

I wanted to keep my ball on the fairway and I executed the plan very well. I didn’t play very well at the start of the 2018 Asian Tour season. After finishing second in China, I became more confident in my golf game. I was thinking too much earlier in the year.

Jazz Janewattananond (Tha) – First Round 65 (-5)

The course is more difficult as compared to last year so I’m happy with my round without any bogeys. The conditions were tough so your all round game has to be good. I saved quite a few good pars so I’m happy with how I played.

The course is set-up really good so thank you Thai Country Club. I’ve been playing in Europe and Asia but I’m happy with how I’ve been playing. Look at Kiradech (Aphibarnrat), he played in Asia and Europe before so if he can do it, I need to learn how to do it as well.

There are lot of golf to be played so I want to keep my momentum going.

Jazz Janewattananond of Thailand

S. Chikkarangappa (Ind) – First Round 65 (-5)

This is my best round in a long time. It was a very solid round. My putting was amazing, I made 23 putts today. I holed some clutch par putts and that’s where I managed to keep going.

I’ve been going through a lot of changes and not being able to progress in the right way. It has been a year of the half now and I spend two solid days with my coach (Vijay Divecha). I was swinging all over the place previously but now I have it under control.

I was a bit nervous obviously coming into this week because I’ve been making so many changes. But after my lesson with my coach, I’m feeling more confident with my game.

(On the bogey on 18) That was probably the only bad shot I hit the whole day. It was right to left wind as I was about to hit my shot and my ball hit the tree and entered the left hazard. It is okay, you tend to have bad shots in a round. You can’t help it.

To be honest, the line of my putt was very tricky and I hit a great putt but I didn’t get the speed right. I felt bad the putt didn’t go in but I was happy because I read the line correctly. I’ve been able to read the greens very well here so I should take the positives going into the coming rounds.

I was the last person to earn a full Asian Tour card last year and it was a great relief to me. I’ve been working with my coach and making sure that I don’t end up in the same situation I was (on the Habitat for Humanity Standings).

Scores after round 1 of the Thailand Open being played at the par 70, 7060 Yards Thai CC course (am – denotes amateur):

64 – Natipong SRITHONG (THA).

65 – Chikkarangappa S. (IND), Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA), Sarit SUWANNARUT (THA).

66 – Nattawat SUVAJANAKORN (THA), Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA), Suttijet KOORATANAPISAN (THA), Terry PILKADARIS (AUS), XIAO Bowen (CHN), Poom SAKSANSIN (THA), Adam BLYTH (AUS), Sattaya SUPUPRAMAI (THA), Josh YOUNGER (AUS).

67 – David GLEESON (AUS), Anthony KANG (USA), John CATLIN (USA), Daniel NISBET (AUS), Rashid KHAN (IND), Rory HIE (INA), Pasavee LERTVILAI (THA), Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA), Kurt KITAYAMA (USA), Miguel CARBALLO (ARG), Panuphol PITTAYARAT (THA), Jake HIGGINBOTTOM (AUS), Tirawat KAEWSIRIBANDIT (THA), Scott BARR (AUS), Pannakorn UTHAIPAS (THA).

68 – Somsak KAOPRATUM (THA), Chapchai NIRAT (THA), LU Wei-chih (TPE), Witchayanon CHOTHIRUNRUNGRUENG (am, THA), Kammalas NAMUANGRUK (am, THA), Ben CAMPBELL (NZL), Peradol PANYATHANASEDH (THA), Charng-Tai SUDSOM (THA), Tanapat PICHAIKOOL (am, THA), Danthai BOONMA (THA), Siddikur RAHMAN (BAN), Masahiro KAWAMURA (JPN), Jarin TODD (USA), Settee PRAKONGVECH (THA).

About Panasonic Swing

The Panasonic Swing was initiated by the Asian Tour and the Panasonic Corporation to reinforce Panasonic’s support for professional golf across the region when it came on board as the Asian Tour’s Official Consumer Electronics in May 2017.

The Panasonic Swing ranking is based on an aggregate point ranking earned by players at selected tournaments in Asia. The top-three finishers in the Panasonic Swing final ranking will earn US$70,000, US$50,000 and US$30,000 respectively via a bonus pool reward scheme.

The inaugural Panasonic Swing, launched at the 2017 Thailand Open before concluding at the 2018 Panasonic Open Japan, saw India’s Shiv Kapur winning the Panasonic Swing with total points of 2922.90. His compatriot Rahil Gangjee came in second with 2805.00 while Rattanon Wannasrichan of Thailand finished third on 2380.50.

The second edition of the Panasonic Swing is set to kick off again at the 2018 Thailand Open, which will be staged at the Thai Country Club from June 7 to 10. It will feature tournaments in India, Malaysia and Indonesia before concluding at the Panasonic Open Japan in 2019.

About Thailand Open

The prestigious Thailand Open returned on the Asian Tour schedule in 2017 after an eight-year lapse. The Thailand Open, which was inaugurated in 1965, is one of the oldest National Opens in Asia.

Rattanon Wannasrichan became the fourth Thai player to win the Thailand Open when he claimed his breakthrough last year. The three other Thais are Suthep Meesawat (1991), Boonchu Ruangkit (1992 and 2004) and Prayad Marksaeng (2013).

Sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the Thailand Golf Association, the Thailand Open will return to the Thai Country Club for its second straight edition on the Asian Tour from June 7 to 10.

The Thailand Open is proudly sponsored by Panasonic, Singha, Dragon, Novotel Bangkok Bangna, Srixon and Ricoh.

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, June 8: The Indonesia Open, the country’s longest-running golf tournament, will be staged on the Asian Tour from July 12 to 15, organisers have announced today.

The tournament, inaugurated in 1974, will offer a prize purse of US$300,000 and it will be played at the Pondok Indah Golf Course for the third consecutive year.

Thailand’s Panuphol Pittayarat earned his breakthrough victory at the tournament last year in dominant fashion as he romped to a five-shot victory over second-placed compatriot, Tirawat Kaewsiribandit. Panuphol will be defending his title this year against an elite 150-man field when the storied event tees off next month.

In addition to Panuphol, the tournament has an illustrious list of winners that includes India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar, who won the event in 2013 and 2016, as well as Ireland’s Padraig Harrington and Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee.

Mr Murdaya Widyawimarta Po, President of Persatuan Golf Indonesia, the national golf association of Indonesia said: “Our national championship is Indonesia’s biggest and most important golf tournament and we are thrilled with its return on the Asian Tour.  

“We are certain that this event will help to boost the game of golf not just in the country, but across the entire region. The Indonesia Open presents an exciting opportunity for our home-grown players to pit their skills against the best players from the Asian Tour."

Said Josh Burack, Asian Tour Chief Executive Officer: “On behalf of our staff and players, I would like to extend our deepest gratitude to all the sponsors and stakeholders for their support and commitment.

“The Asian Tour is pleased to be back in Indonesia for the country’s most historic golf tournament. The Indonesia Open has always been one of the most popular events on our schedule, and I’m sure our Asian Tour stars will continue to rouse the local crowd when the tournament starts in July.”

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, June 6: India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar will make his debut at the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways at the Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course from August 2 to 5, 2018.

Bhullar, one of the most successful professional golfers from India and an eight-time winner on the Asian Tour, is the latest player to confirm his place in the tournament.

He’s no stranger to the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia having teed it up in the past two ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth tournaments in 2017 and 2018, which are, like the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways, tri-sanctioned with the European Tour and Asian Tour.

“I’m really looking forward to playing in Fiji for the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways, I can’t wait to see the Vijay Singh designed Natadola Bay Championship Course for myself,” said Bhullar.

“I’m sure he’s made it a real test, especially with some of those exposed holes on the coast, I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

Bhullar has enjoyed a steady start to the 2018 Asian Tour season, a top-10 finish at the Leopalace21 Myanmar Open and a runner-up result at the 37th GS Caltex Maekyung Open Golf Championship where he narrowly missed victory being defeated in a four-man playoff.

He currently sits just outside the top-10 on the Asian Tour’s Habitat for Humanity Standings but has his work cut out for him to catch countryman Shubhankar Sharma at the top of the standings.

“This being a tri-sanctioned tournament with the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia, European Tour and Asian Tour is going to provide a great chance for me to make up some ground on the Habitat for Humanity Standings,” said Bhullar.

“We saw Kiradech (Aphibarnrat) make a huge jump up that list when he won in Perth so hopefully I can get a good result and try and catch those leaders.”

Bhullar’s last victory came at the 2017 Macao Open where he won by three-shots from countryman, Ajeetesh Sandhu.

“We are happy to welcome one of India’s greatest golfers to Fiji for the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways,” said Honourable Faiyaz Siddiq Koya, Minister for Industry, Trade, Tourism, Lands and Mineral Resources.

“As one of the most successful golfers on the Asian Tour, we’re sure Bhullar will be a great addition to the field which currently includes golfing stars like Ernie Els and our own Vijay Singh.

“Once again, we know the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways will prove an impressive platform to promote golf and tourism in Fiji,” added Hon. Koya.

Bhullar’s addition to the field carries on a strong history of Asian Tour stars, teeing it up at the picturesque course with stunning views of the Coral Coast Sea.

“We’re excited to have Gaganjeet confirmed for the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways, his performance on the Asian Tour over the years has been fantastic,” said Gavin Kirkman, CEO of PGA of Australia which owns the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia.

“The Asian Tour has been a strong supporter of the tournament here in Fiji and we’ve had some of their strongest performers compete in the tournament, highlighted by rising Thai star Jazz Janewattananond thrilling us all with a final round of 8-under 64 last year.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how Gaganjeet will take on the Vijay Singh designed Natadola Bay Championship Course this year.”

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 the 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 and 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 Sports and Entertainment (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.

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.