Poom relishing Kiwi challenge at ISPS HANDA New Zealand Open

Published on February 21, 2018

The 99th ISPS HANDA New Zealand Open, sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia and in partnership with the Japan Golf Tour Organisation (JGTO), will be played at Millbrook Resort and The Hills from March 1-4.

Poom, a two-time Asian Tour winner, is expected to light up the NZ$1.2 million event together with more than 10 Asian Tour winners that also features 2016 Order of Merit champion Scott Hend of Australia.

“I’m really excited about going to New Zealand. This will be my first time in New Zealand and I want to make it a really memorable affair. I’ll be flying to India after New Zealand and although the journey is going to be very long, I don’t really mind."

“I have heard so many wonderful things about the country especially the scenery and I want to experience it myself,” said Poom.

The ISPS HANDA New Zealand Open will see 144 players compete for the first two rounds before the halfway cut is made where the leading 60 players and ties progress to the final two rounds.

The unique nature of the event also includes 144 amateur players, who will each partner a professional in a two-man best-ball event in the first two rounds.

“It’s always interesting whenever there’s a new format. I’m looking forward to playing with my pro-am partner and most importantly, have fun,” said the 24-year-old.

Poom has enjoyed an encouraging start to his 2018 Asian Tour season so far. He emerged as one of the standout performers for Team Asia at the EurAsia Cup and finished tied-12th and tied-10th in Singapore and Myanmar respectively last month.

“I’m playing well and hopefully I can get that next win very soon,” smiled Poom.

Other notable players at the ISPS HANDA New Zealand Open include 2017 Asian Development Tour (ADT) Order of Merit champion Pannakorn Uthaipas of Thailand and American Kurt Kitayama, who finished third at the Asian Tour Qualifying School before going on to win his first ADT title in Malaysia last month.

The Asian Tour became a full co-sanctioning partner of the ISPS HANDA New Zealand Open following an initial collaboration which saw 10 Asian Tour members featuring in the 2017 edition.

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.

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Published on February 14, 2018

New Delhi, February 14: The Hero Indian Open, the country’s marquee golf tournament – which enters its 54th edition this year – will have the strongest-ever field with a galaxy of Indian stars vying for top honours with some marquee names from around the world.

Defending champion SSP Chawrasia, former champion Anirban Lahiri and twice European Tour winner and emerging talent Shubhankar Sharma will lead the Indian line-up at the European and the Asian Tour co-sanctioned tournament – to be played at the Gary Player layout of the DLF Golf and Country Club from March 8 to 11, 2018.

Emiliano Grillo of Argentina, who is a PGA Tour winner and member of the 2017 Presidents Cup team, will head the global list. The marquee names also include Andrew Johnston, one of the most popular players around the world, and the Ryder Cup captain, Thomas Bjorn, who has 21 worldwide wins including 15 on European Tour. Bjorn led a strong European team last month to a fine win over Asia in the EurAsia Cup in Malaysia.

The highest-ranked Indian player in the tournament will be Shubhankar Sharma, who with two European Tour wins in less than two months, has broken into Top-100, with a world ranking of No. 72. Lahiri, PGA Tour player and World No. 76, will try to reclaim the Hero Indian open trophy that he won in 2015.

The tournament will also see a strong Indian challenge including Shiv Kapur, Gaganjeet Bhullar, Ajeetesh Sandhu, Team Asia captain Arjun Atwal, Jeev Milkha Singh, Jyoti Randhawa, Mukesh Kumar, Chiragh Kumar and many others.

Pawan Munjal, Chairman, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Hero MotoCorp, said, “We are pleased to extend our association with the Hero Indian Open, which we have been associated with for the past 12 years. Our long-term commitment to support golf has been vindicated by the rising popularity of the game in India and the number of young Indian players making their mark on the global golfing circuit. Over the years, the Hero Indian Open has grown immensely in stature and attracted some of the best talent from around the world. With one of the strongest-ever field this year, I am sure this edition will be as exciting as the previous ones.”

Hero MotoCorp is major supporter of golf on all the three Tours – Asian Tour, European Tour and the US PGA Tour.

Chawrasia will be attempting the first-ever hat trick of wins in the 54-year long history of the tournament. Chawrasia had finished runner-up at the Hero Indian Open on four occasions – in 1999, 2006, 2013 and 2015 – before piping countryman Anirban Lahiri and Korea’s Jeunghun Wang to take the coveted title for the first time in 2016. He successfully retained his title last year to claim his fourth European Tour win.

Past champion Thongchai Jaidee and Ryder Cup player, Chris Wood, who won the 2016 BMW PGA Championships, are also in the field.

A final list of confirmations will be available closer to the event.

Keith Waters, Chief Operating Officer of the European Tour, said, “The support of Hero MotoCorp has helped this tournament to go from strength to strength. Our thanks go to Mr. Pawan Munjal and his team for their continued support of Indian Golf and in particular this event, which has proved to be of real benefit to emerging local golfers who have had the opportunity to grow their careers on the European Tour.”

Satish Aparajit, President of the Indian Golf Union, the apex body for golf in India, said, “The Hero Indian Open has become a very important stop on the European and Asian Tours. Besides attracting global stars, it has been a platform for upcoming juniors not only from all over Asia and Europe but also India.”

Aakash Ohri, Sr. Executive Director – Business Development, DLF Home Developers Ltd, said, “The DLF Golf & Country Club is delighted to welcome the Hero Indian Open back for the second successive year. The Gary Player course has proved to be a good test of golf and the maintenance team is working hard to presenting the course in pristine conditions. We look forward to welcoming all players, officials and spectators to the tournament.”

Published on March 27, 2013

March 27: Thailand’s Kiradech Aphibarnrat moved up 85 spots on the Official World Golf Rankings to 85th place following his victory at the Maybank Malaysian Open on Sunday.

The Thai rising star enjoyed one of the biggest moves in his career when he defeated a star studded cast at the US$2.75 million event which was sanctioned by the Asian Tour and European Tour.

Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand is the best ranked Asian Tour member in 59th position and needs a victory in this week’s Chiangmai Golf Classic presented by PTT to qualify for the Masters Tournament next month.

Marcus Fraser of Australia, last year’s Order of Merit runner-up, was placed 63rd in the Official World Golf Ranking where Tiger Woods reclaimed the number one spot after winning on Sunday.

Asian Tour honorary member K.J. Choi ranks 77th while reigning Asian Tour number one Thaworn Wiratchant is 82nd in the world followed by multiple Asian Tour winner Bae Sang-moon of Korea in 84th spot.

Gaganjeet Bhullar of India, currently second on the Order of Merit, is placed 88th while two-time Asian Tour Order of Merit winner Jeev Milkha Singh is in 103rd position. Noh Seung-yul of Korea and Charlie Wi of Korea are placed 112th and 115th respectively.

Among other Asian Tour members ranked inside the top-200 in the world include: Y.E. Yang of Korea (144th), Juvic Pagunsan of the Philippines (146th), Anirban Lahiri of India (163rd), Wu Ashun of China (170th), Liang Wen-chong (172nd), Prom Meesawat of Thailand (182nd) and Jbe Kruger of South Africa (183rd).

Ends.

Published on February 14, 2018

The 28-year-old, who earned his Asian Tour breakthrough in Macao in 2016, will be playing in New Zealand for the first time. Apart from setting his sights on a second Tour win at the NZ$1.2 million which will be sanctioned by the Asian Tour, ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia and in partnership with the Japan Golf Tour Organisation (JGTO), the Thai is also excited to be playing against a spectacular backdrop that the event is going to offer.

“I can’t wait to get to New Zealand. This will be my first time playing there and I’ve heard so many good things about the country. I did a google search on Queenstown and saw so many fascinating and beautiful pictures online. I’m really excited about going there,” said the Thai. Pavit rose through the Asian Development Tour (ADT) ranks where he won five times before going on to make his mark on the Asian Tour. He reached a career high of 10th place on the Asian Tour Order of Merit in 2016 and is hoping to reach similar heights this season. “It has been two years since my first Asian Tour victory in Macao and I’m hoping to win again. I know I have the game to do well and hopefully that I can put four good rounds together in New Zealand,” said Pavit.

The ISPS HANDA New Zealand Open will also incorporate a unique Pro-Am format which will be played with a two-ball best ball format. It is another unique experience where Pavit knows will create more hype for the event.

“I played in a similar format before at Dunhill Links where it’s good fun. So this will add another level of excitement for the event,” said Pavit. More than 15 Asian Tour champions including 2016 Order of Merit winner Scott Hend of Australia are expected to contest at New Zealand’s premier golf tournament.

The 99th ISPS Handa New Zealand Open will be played at Millbrook Resort and The Hills near Queenstown from March 1-4. Ends.

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Published on

The 99th ISPS Handa New Zealand Open will be played at Millbrook Resort and The Hills near Queenstown from March 1-4. Ends.

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Published on March 26, 2013

Y.E. Yang (Kor)
Welcome to the inaugural Chiangmai Golf Classic presented by PTT. Give us your initial thoughts about being back on the Asian Tour?
It’s the middle of the season for me and I had initial doubts about coming over right before the Masters but Alpine was kind enough to invite me over for the inaugural event and IMG has a role in this. It’s my first time in Chiangmai although I’ve been to Thailand a few times before but it’s my first time coming up north. My initial impression is that the government, sponsors and everyone have been very nice. It’s feels like the end of the season right now because I’m in Asia right now. It’s very rare I’m here in Asia at this time of the year. I’m a bit excited right now about this tournament.
How has your form been this year?
It’s definitely better than last year. Last year was terrible. It’s only so much that can get worse after last year. It can only go up and it’s a gradual improvement for me. It’s not great but at the same time, it’s not too terrible but I’m going in the right direction. It’s really good to be here in Chiangmai as just because I’m Asian, the whole culture, people, heritage and food, it just makes you feel comfortable. I’m in a familiar environment. It’s an added sense of security and I hope that with that kind of comfortable feel, hopefully after playing a good week, I would have built some confidence and momentum going into the Masters in two weeks’ time.
What were the problems last season with the game and what have you done to rectify those issues?
Last year was more psychological than physical. Technique wise, swing wise and form wise, it wasn’t that bad. I just put too much pressure on myself. The winless run added a lot pressure on me on every tournament I participated and as the year went by, the pressure mounted more and more. I think that was the biggest issue. This year, I’m more relaxed mentally and physically. It’s translated to a better start than last year. I actually on going in the right direction. My form and psychology is improving tournament by tournament. Hopefully I can get back to the state where I can get my confidence high.
What make Koreans different from other Asian players as you’ve had a lot of success on the PGA Tour and LPGA Tour?
There are multiple reasons why Koreans are flourishing in the US. You can’t pinpoint one definite reasons. I think one of the reasons is that you’ve had trailblazers setting a certain standard that the younger players have a benchmark to pursues, a certain bar to achieve. That makes the target of your practising and hardship that you go through tangible. With that, you want to be as good or better than KJ Choi or Se-ri Pak. Players have something to look forward to. It’s not just I wanted to get better but have a goal of getting on to the US Tour, get into the top-10, top-3 and win. There’s a road map for players. Because of that, it’s easier for players to set goals. There’s a lot more competition amongst the players and everyone is bettering themselves to overcome each other. This translates into more confidence, posture and readiness in the game.
Did you get any help to cope with the pressure?
I didn’t seek any professional help with regards to the mental game. Same thing with the swing as I don’t really need someone to come up and tell me what to do. I think I am my best teacher both physically and mentally. But I had help from friends and family. I’m a devout Buddhist and I believe in the circle of how life fluctuates. People have told me to wait for my fortune to come back. It comes naturally to you just as it did in 2009. I did have to go back into my memory and sort of remember the hardship that I went through between 2006 when I won the HSBC Champions and 2008 when I first got onto the PGA Tour. Between that period, I was in Europe and I was in a major slump and didn’t play well. I looked into that period to try to find some courage and some inspiration on how I overcame that, how I overcame the 2008 PGA Tour season and had to return to Qschool that year and had a great year in 2009. Sometimes you have to go back into your past experience. Sometimes you have some time to figure out what happened in the past. You look at the low point of your career and I now look back at 2012 and it was a low point in my career. I tried too hard to make my own destiny. Sometimes it comes naturally. Right now, that’s what I’m doing. I’m practising and training as hard as I can. The rest of it, the winning, the good fortune, the money, that all comes afterwards. I’m just waiting for my chance and opportunity.
With the Masters around the corner, is Augusta National a course which you feel you can win out there and is there a need for you to win a second Major?
It is certainly winnable. Apart from the other three majors, Augusta National does not have tough rough and not as long as other Majors. I’ve had a good run at the US Open where I have finished third (in 2011). I have not done well in the British Open because of the weather and the length of the course which is not up to my form. I’ve won the PGA Championship. I have come up on the leaderboard at the Masters a few times. I have confidence going into the Majors but with Augusta National, it’s different. You play the same course every year and you have a feel of the whole layout and tournament. If you can get used to the green speed which is horrendous for the players, I feel it’s the better Major for the Asians to excel. It’s not too long but overall, it’s fairly straight forward. If you can get used to the green speed, it’s really anybody’s game. I don’t know how many more Masters I’ll play in, but within my strength and ability, I’m going to try to go for another win and hopefully it will be the Masters will be my second Major. I do think that with repetitive practice and competition, I think it does make the odds in my favour. I think Augusta National is winnable. I won’t say I can win it but it is winnable.

Thongchai Jaidee (Thai)

Talk about the importance of having a new Asian Tour tournament in Chiangmai.
I think it is very good to be here. Chiangmai is one of the most favourite places in my country. There are a lot of tourists here. If you come here between November to January, the best is the weather. They have a lot of festivals, the flower festival and a lot of campers come out here to the temples. This is the first Asian Tour tournament in Chiangmai and I’m very proud of it. I want to thank all the sponsors for bringing a tournament here. A lot of Thai people are very excited to see a new tournament here. Golf will get the people excited here. There will be strong players here like Ernie Els and it will be good for the tournament in Chiangmai. I played here in 1995 SEA Games. The course is totally different, it has been renovated. New grass, new greens, everything is new now. A lot of people are very excited about this. The course is fantastic and the condition is very good.
How is your game feeling?
Except for putting in the last few weeks, which I didn’t putt too well in India. Last week, it was hard because of the weather. You start and stop, hang around the clubhouse and you can’t get any momentum going. If you play well, the stops will make it difficult for you in your mind. With the tournament being reduced to three days, it makes it harder.
How happy were you to see Kiradech winning?
He’s my favourite amongst the new generation of Thai players. I have played with him quite often, played the World Cup with him. He’s got everything except for experience. He needs more experience for the future. Winning last week will help him a lot. I think he will be a star player in the future.
How good can he become?
He’s very young. I said last week in an interview that he will be very good. I’m not surprised he won it. Winning for my country, I’m very proud to see a young player win a co-sanctioned tournament. I think Kiradech will be the future. He needs to plan his career and know what he wants to do. Looks like it will be easy for him to win the Order of Merit now. I think he will have a good chance to win if he keeps playing like this. This week will also be a very good chance for him. It’s good to see the new generation coming through on the Asian Tour. Golf has improved because of the new technology, coaching.
This is the final week for qualifying for the Masters and only a win will get you into the top-50 in the world to qualify for it. Is it at the back of your mind?
It’s my dream and if I win, then I will qualify. Will try my best. I want to play well this week, there’s a good chance. If not, then no problem. I hit some balls at the range today and yesterday, the feeling is there. Last week was tough as the course was not easy. If you hit good shots, sometimes, the fairway is not flat and you have a tough angle.
Good to have Ernie, YE and Michael playing this week?
It’s very good for our country. I want to thank all sponsors for bringing this big tournament to Thailand. There are strong star players which is good for my country to see the top players. This event will also be live on tv which goes out to over 200 countries which is good for Thailand. I’m very proud of this tournament.

Anirban Lahiri (Ind)
Anirban Lahiri
It is a fantastic golf course. I didn’t know what to expect but this is probably one of the best courses that we play all year. It is hot but it is nice hot here! I’m really enjoying myself here. It is always nice to come back to Thailand. I’ve always enjoyed a little bit of success here. I’m really excited being here. It is a great golf course.
The golf course is in great shape and I’ve been talking to some of the Thai boys and they said that they haven’t even played here before. It is surprising because it is such a good track. I think we should make this an annual stop. I think everyone is excited to be playing here. It is in fantastic condition and the design is really good as well.
It is a great field and it is nice to have some of these top guys playing with us. We had a few strong weeks. We are all up for it and looking forward to rubbing shoulders and beating these guys.
My game has been a little bit on and off. Last week I hit it great but I couldn’t score very well. I was disappointed not to play on Sunday but that’s golf. Coming into this week, I played a few holes and I’m hitting it good. These greens are a little bit more to my liking compared to last week. I’m excited and comfortable with my game.

Michael Campbell (Nzl)
Q. Your thoughts playing this week?
Yeah, I think it is pretty exciting for everyone this week including sponsors, players and the fans. I think we have a good field this week.
Q. Can you talk about the challenge this week?
We have a lot of top ranked players this week. Ernie Els is here and he will be the hot favourite this week. He won his fourth Major last year so he is in good form. I think there are a bunch of good and young Asian guys. You can’t forget Thongchai (Jaidee), who is obviously a local favourite as well. It is going to be tough.
Q. How’s the form shaping up?
My form has been up-and-down again. I had the chance to win the Portugal Masters and Hong Kong Open last year. I had solid weeks in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. I missed a couple of cuts after that but it is no big deal. That’s the way that I play and the way golf is. Hopefully this week will turn things around for me.
Q. What’s your goal this week?
My goal is to enjoy myself. I love the food in Thailand, it is one of my favourite cuisines. I want to enjoy the week and don’t want to expect too much. The weather will be pretty warm so it is going to be pretty tough.
Michael Campbell
Q. What do you think about the weather?
The heat will make it a lot harder for the players. You got to be fit and strong and most of these guys are pretty fit and strong. Obviously you need to rest a lot.
Q. What do you think about the Asian Tour?
I’ve always enjoy playing in Asia. I try coming here for about two or three times a year. I like the Asian feel. I think it is a good grinding place for all these guys coming through. I think the Asian Tour has grown from strength to strength over the last five or 10 years. I’ve been playing in Asia since I was an amateur so it has been a long time. I’m very familiar with the culture. It is nice to be back and playing again.
Q. What’s been holding your game back?
The last six months has been unusual. I had chances to win tournaments. I don’t know really. That’s the way I’m. The way I’m wired. I’m used to it (inconsistency). I think the more I try to fix it, the worst I get. I just want to think about the next day and hopefully things will go my way.
Q. Have you had days where you just don’t want to practice?
Sometimes you do get all sort of things in your mind. So there are days where I do not want to practice. I have nothing to prove and nothing to lose. My career in the last 23 years has been pretty good. I can’t complain. I’m fortunate to be playing the game and I can still compete. I’m not looking at it in a negative way. It is all positive for me.

Published on February 10, 2018

Prom carded seven birdies against two bogeys to return with a 12-under-par 204 total at Lake Karrinyup Country Club. He finished two shots ahead of the rest of the field. The burly Thai golfer, along with seven others in the top eight, will go into the second round of the knockout matchplay on Sunday.

Sean Crocker of the United States carded a 67, while Lucas Herbert of Australia and Thorbjorn Olesen carded matching 69s to finish in tied-second.

The leading 24 players after three rounds will qualify for the six-hole knockout matchplay.

Other Asian Tour members who progressed to the knockout matchplay include Thais Pavit Tangkamolprasert (69), Poom Saksansin (67) and Kiradech Aphibarnrat (72) as well as Yi-keun Chang (71) from Korea.

Poom, Kiradech and Chang, qualified for Sunday via a play-off where nine players, who all finished in tied-17th, vied for eight spots. Australia’s Anthony Quayle was eliminated after a titanic battle with Kiradech that stretched to four play-off holes.

Defending champion Brett Rumford and England’s Lee Westwood failed to secure spots in the knockout matchplay after carding matching 78s.

Did you know:

Prom Meesawat is nicknamed “The Big Dolphin” because of his physique and that he hails from Hua Hin, a coastal town in Thailand.
He found 13 out of 14 fairways, and hit 16 out of 18 greens in regulation in round three.
His last matchplay experience in his professional career was in 2007, in a team event that pit Asian golfers against their European counterparts.
A$50,000 in prize money is allocated to the top three players after 54 holes.
The top eight players will go to the second round of the knockout matchplay.
The remaining 16 players will be randomly paired and will play the first round of knockout matchplay.
Knockout matches on Sunday will be played on the 10th hole (par four), 11th hole (par five), 13th hole (par four), 14th hole (par four), 12th hole (par three), 18th hole (par four).
Any matches tied after six holes will proceed to the “shootout hole”, which will utilize the 18th hole and played from a new tee box located 80-90m from the green.

Player’s Quotes:

Prom Meesawat (Tha), Third Round 67 (-5), Total 204 (-12)

I’m very happy with my round. I finished first, but you’ll never know what will happen tomorrow as it is going to be matchplay. So, I’m going to try my best. I’ve been playing well over the last three days. I hope that I can bring my good form to Sunday.

I managed the golf course well and I aimed to get my ball into good positions at every hole. I played in a matchplay event a long time ago and I think the knockout rounds will be fun. Before the tournament, I didn’t expect to be in the top three. I was just happy to be in the top 24. So, in any case, I’ll just go out and enjoy the experience.

If I can win the tournament tomorrow, it’s going to be very nice as it’ll be my first European Tour win.

I’ve got a good chance. Like what I said, in matchplay, anything can happen. Last year, Rummy (Brett Rumford) knocked everyone out and won the tournament. I’m going to try to be like Rummy. Finish the stroke play rounds in first place, and then win the tournament.

Pavit Tangkamolprasert (Tha), Third Round 69 (-3), Total 210 (-6)

I started my round badly, as I double bogeyed the second. Then I sunk a birdie at the seventh, which was my turning point of the round. I also birdied the eighth, 10th, 11th and 12th. I got into a rhythm. I understood the greens a lot more after playing the first two rounds.

I’m always relaxed, be in stroke play or matchplay. Even if I’m paired with top players, I won’t be too bothered. It’s only six holes and anything can happen.

Kiradech Aphibarnrat (Tha), Third Round 72 (even par), Total 211 (-5)

I’ve been struggling with my putts all day. I three putted on 14th, and four putted on the 15th. Before those holes, I was easily in the top eight. I’ve made bad mistakes. Even par is not good enough actually, but it was just enough to get me into the knockout matchplay.

I feel good when I bounce back from a bad hole. But, I was struggling with the wind here and I didn’t bring my ‘A’ game. I’m usually good with my iron play, but not so much at this tournament.

I’ll have to work on my swing. Despite what happened over the first three rounds, I still believe my game is good enough to win the tournament.

Yi-keun Chang (Kor), Third Round 71 (-1), Total 211 (-5)

I knew that I had to start aggressively as the front nine wasn’t windy. But I only made one birdie. I thought I had to make six or seven to make it to the top 24. I hit it good on 15th to about six feet. I made the eagle putt to be seven-under-par. But, I made a few mistakes on 16th and 18th, which led to bogeys.

There are only six holes tomorrow. You just have to start well and not make mistakes. I’ll try to make birdies early one.

Poom Saksanin (Tha), Third Round 67 (-5), Total 211 (-5)

I putted really well today. Some, I didn’t expect to go in, but they did. I sunk some a long one at the 17th. My iron play is very good too, especially my long irons.

As I’ve mentioned earlier, this will be my first time playing in the six-hole matchplay. I don’t know what to expect, but I’ll be aggressive from the start.

Scores after round 3 of the ISPS HANDA WORLD SUPER 6 PERTH being played at the par 72, 7143 Yards Lake Karrinyup GC course (am – denotes amateur):

204 – Prom Meesawat (THA) 67-70-67.

206 – Sean Crocker (USA) 70-69-67, Lucas Herbert (AUS) 68-69-69, Thorbjorn Olesen (DEN) 70-67-69.

208 – Dimitrios Papadatos (AUS) 69-73-66, Brad Kennedy (AUS) 69-72-67, Yusaku Miyazato (JPN) 70-70-68, Sam Horsfield (ENG) 68-72-68.

209 – Marcus Fraser (AUS) 68-74-67, Grant Forrest (SCO) 69-68-72.

210 – Matthew Millar (AUS) 73-70-67, James Nitties (AUS) 66-76-68, Ben Eccles (AUS) 72-69-69, Pavit Tangkamolprasert (THA) 70-71-69, Nick Cullen (AUS) 72-68-70, Min Woo Lee (am, AUS) 69-70-71.

211 – Callan O’Reilly (AUS) 72-71-68, Stephen Leaney (AUS) 69-72-70, Poom Saksansin (THA) 71-73-67, Satoshi Kodaira (JPN) 70-71-70, Yi-keun Chang (KOR) 67-73-71, Andrea Pavan (ITA) 73-66-72, Zander Lombard (RSA) 68-70-73, Kiradech Aphibarnrat (THA) 67-72-72, Anthony Quayle (AUS) 71-68-72.

cores after round 3 of the ISPS HANDA WORLD SUPER 6 PERTH being played at the par 72, 7143 Yards Lake Karrinyup GC course (am – denotes amateur):

204 – Prom Meesawat (THA) 67-70-67.

206 – Sean Crocker (USA) 70-69-67, Lucas Herbert (AUS) 68-69-69, Thorbjorn Olesen (DEN) 70-67-69.

208 – Dimitrios Papadatos (AUS) 69-73-66, Brad Kennedy (AUS) 69-72-67, Yusaku Miyazato (JPN) 70-70-68, Sam Horsfield (ENG) 68-72-68.

209 – Marcus Fraser (AUS) 68-74-67, Grant Forrest (SCO) 69-68-72.

210 – Matthew Millar (AUS) 73-70-67, James Nitties (AUS) 66-76-68, Ben Eccles (AUS) 72-69-69, Pavit Tangkamolprasert (THA) 70-71-69, Nick Cullen (AUS) 72-68-70, Min Woo Lee (am, AUS) 69-70-71.

212 – Ryan Fox (NZL) 70-73-69, Aaron Rai (ENG) 71-73-68, David Bransdon (AUS) 71-70-71, Jason Scrivener (AUS) 67-73-72, Wade Ormsby (AUS) 67-73-72, Johan Edfors (SWE) 71-73-68, Scott Vincent (ZIM) 73-71-68.

Ends.

About the ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth

To be played at Lake Karrinyup Country Club from 8-11 February, 2018 and tri-sanctioned by the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia, European Tour and Asian Tour, the ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth combines 54 holes of traditional stroke play across the first three days with an exciting knockout match play format for the fourth and final round.

A regular cut will fall after 36 holes before the field is then further reduced to the top-24 players following 54 holes of regulation play, with any ties for 24th place being decided by a play-off. Those remaining players will then earn their places in the six-hole shootout.

Any matches tied after the six holes will be decided by playing the new Shootout Hole – a purpose-built 90-metre hole constructed at Lake Karrinyup, with a tee placed adjacent to the 18th fairway and utilising the 18th green.

The ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth is a golf tournament designed to retain the traditions of the game whilst appealing to a broader audience.

About ISPS HANDA

ISPS HANDA is a ‘General Incorporated Association’ based in Tokyo. ISPS HANDA was founded by Japanese philanthropist Dr. Haruhisa Handa in 2006 to support charitable causes throughout the sporting world.

ISPS HANDA’s support for golf is founded in its belief in the “power of sport” and it has fostered partnerships with golf governing bodies worldwide to help develop the game at every level and promote blind and disabled golf.

ISPS HANDA’s heritage in supporting blind and disabled golf and Dr. Handa’s interest and philanthropic contribution in golf has formed the foundation of its wider mission for golf to become a Paralympic sport.

Outside of golf, ISPS HANDA’s support extends to other sports including rowing, football, polo, bowling and the convening of discussion platforms for young leaders in sports.

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 (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
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www.weibo.com/asiantourgolf

Published on

Perth, Australia, February 10: The draw for the final round of the ISPS World Super 6 Perth has been released, setting up an exciting finale to the unique event at Lake Karrinyup Country Club.

The leading 24 players have qualified for the knockout matchplay, with the top eight players receiving a first-round bye.

All knockout matches will be played over six holes of Lake Karrinyup, at the 10th hole (par-four), 11th hole (par-five), 13th hole (par-four), 14th hole (par-four), 12th hole (par-three), 18th hole (par-four) and played in that order.

Any matches tied after the six holes will proceed to the “shootout” hole where a hole-by-hole playoff will be used to determine the winner. The player with the honour will be determined by toss of a coin or similar.

The shootout hole utilises the existing 18th green played from a new tee box located approximately 80-90 metres from the green on the right hand side of the 18th fairway.

Getting the final round underway at 7.30am local time will be local amateur and crowd favourite Min Woo Lee, who will take on the highest-ranked player in the field, world number 37 Satoshi Kodaira of Japan. Top seed Prom Meesawat awaits the winner of the opening match.

Scotland’s Grant Forrest will tackle Australia’s Matthew Millar, who has the benefit of having made last year’s match play and is one of the most consistent performers on the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia. The winner will move on to face Sam Horsfield of England.

Pavit Tangkamolprasert of Thailand will face Callan O’Reilly, with Olesen to take on the winner. The Dane is experienced in this format having won the European Tour’s teams version, the Golf Sixes.

Match four is an all Aussie affair with James Nitties and Nick Cullen set to battle, while another Aussie Dimi Papadatos awaits in the second round.

Marcus Fraser of Australia is paired against Poom Saksansin of Thailand. The winner of that match will face Australia’s Lucas Herbert who for the second year has earned a top-eight seeding. While in 2017 he also had a bye through to the second round, he was bundled out in his first match by rising star Phachara Khongwatmai.

Korean Yi-keun Chang and South African Zander Lombard go head-to-head, with Queenslander Brad Kennedy awaiting the victor.

Following an epic four-hole playoff win over Anthony Quayle, Thai star Kiradech Aphibarnrat will match up with young Victorian Ben Eccles. Japan’s Yusaku Myazato waits in round two.

Finally, veteran Tour Professional and local hope Stephen Leaney will take on Italian Andrea Pavan, with young American Sean Crocker waiting to see who he faces in round two.

Ends.

About the ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth

The ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth is a golf tournament designed to retain the traditions of the game whilst appealing to a broader audience.

About ISPS HANDA

Outside of golf, ISPS HANDA’s support extends to other sports including rowing, football, polo, bowling and the convening of discussion platforms for young leaders in sports.

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 (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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www.facebook.com/asiantourgolf
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Published on February 9, 2018

The 44-year-old golfer overcame swirling winds to card an eagle as well as four birdies at Lake Karrinyup Country Club. However, he dropped shots at the first, ninth, 13th and 18th before signing for an eight-under-par 136 total.

Rumford adopted a cautious approach in the second round that resulted in two birdies against two bogeys. He is contented to sign for a 72, which is sufficient to keep him at the top of the leaderboard.

Prom Meesawat of Thailand was on his way to join Westwood and Rumford in tied-first, but he dropped a shot at the 18th after his approach went short and into the bunker. Nevertheless, the Thai had a commendable second round, scoring six birdies on his way to carding a 70.

Sharing third place with Prom is Thorbjorn Olesen of Denmark, Lucas Herbert of Australia and Grant Forrest of Scotland. The trio shot 67, 69 and 68 respectively.

Kiradech Aphibarnrat of Thailand, one of the top contenders going into the ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth, was four-under-par after 11 holes, but four consecutive bogeys from holes three to six brought him back to even par. He finished round two in tied-eighth.

Compatriot Pavit Tangkamolprasert scored an ace at the par-three 17th. The 28-year-old teed off using a seven-iron from 204 yards. It was his first hole-in-one in his life.

The cut after two rounds was set at even par, with 80 players progressing to round three.

Did you know:

Lee Westwood hit eight out of 14 fairways and made 13 out of 18 greens in regulation in round two.
He won in Australia previously, beating the legendary Greg Norman in a playoff at the 1997 Australian Open.
His most recent professional victory was at the 2015 CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters, an event on the Asian Tour.
Brett Rumford is a two-time winner on the Asian Tour. He won last year’s ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth and the 2013 Ballentine’s Championship.
His highest-ever position on the Official World Golf Ranking was 74th, achieved in October 2013.
Prom Meesawat’s consistency helped him earned US$134,192 on the Asian Tour in 2017. He finished 30th on the 2017 Asian Tour Order of Merit.
In an interview with the Asian Tour in 2014, he said that his favourite female golf professional is Paula Creamer.
Thorbjorn Olesen has won previously at Lake Karrinyup Country Club. He emerged victorious the 2014 Perth International.
He was part of Team Europe that won the 2014 EurAsia Cup.
Lucas Herbert qualified for The Open after finishing tied-eighth at the Singapore Open.
He was one of Australia’ s best amateurs before he turned professional in 2015. He was the leading amateur at the 2014 Australian Open and the leading amateur at the 2014 Australian Masters.
Kiradech Aphibarnrat missed only two fairways in round two.
In 2013 when he won the Asian Tour Order of Merit, he earned US$1,127,855. The biggest prize cheque that year came from his win in Malaysia.

Player’s Quotes:

Lee Westwood (Eng), Second Round 70 (-2), Total 136 (-8)

It was a good day out on the golf course. It wasn’t easy out there. I know the wind can really pick up in Perth, but you don’t expect it to blow quite as strong as it has blown today.

Rumford and I haven’t given too many shots away. We made a few putts and I chipped in a couple of times. It has been fun. I hope that we get to play together again tomorrow.

I don’t look at it (being in the top eight). I was just trying to shoot as low as possible. I know, if I carry on playing like I’m playing, I’ll be thereabouts on the leaderboard. To be perfectly honest, matchplay is like a lottery sometimes. You’re going to need a lot of luck to win it.

I don’t know what to make of six-hole matchplay. Like I said, I think you’re going to need a lot of luck. I think having a six-hole matchplay is exciting for the fans. I think golf needs something like that, but I don’t know if you’re going to find out who the best player of the week is with that format. If somebody birdies the first four holes, you don’t have any time to fight back. So, it’s a very “do or die” situation over the first couple of holes.

Brett Rumford (Aus), Second Round 72 (even par), Total 136 (-8)

The golf course was as tricky as it can get. It was just rough from word “go”. Every single hole looked different compared to yesterday – the way it played, your landing areas, everything. So, it was a day just purely for concentration and just knocking them down. I’m happy to have signed for 72, I’m happy to be tied for the lead.

Pars are good scores, and parring the first six was what I did. Yeah, it was just a tough day, so I had no real expectations of scores. It was just knuckling down, and do the best you can.

Obviously, Westwood and I want to go through as the leader. You would have to lie to say that you’re not aware of your opponent. But, I’m not playing against him, I’m not changing my game plan or swing thoughts. I’m just playing golf. Tomorrow will be the same, I am just focusing on my own game and I will try to take it as deep as I can.

Prom Meesawat (Tha), Second Round 70 (-2), Total 137 (-7)

The tournament played a lot different compared to yesterday, when I teed off in the morning. I just try to get myself in a good position and make as many birdies as I can. I made two good birdies on the front nine, which helped me a lot. I also hit a lot of good iron shots. When it’s windy, you can make a lot of mistakes. So, grabbing the opportunities for birdies will help you a lot.

It’s not really mentally taxing for me, despite the conditions. I just try to keep the ball below the tree line. I did very well today and I’m happy to shoot under par under these conditions.

Being in the top eight is going to help. But there’s still a lot of golf to play. There are plenty of good players left as well. I’m just going to stick to my game and try to do my best.

Thorbjorn Olesen (Den), Second Round 67 (-5), Total 137 (-7)

Yeah, the round was difficult. It was quite breezy this morning and the wind picked up in the last hour or so. With that in mind, I’m very happy with my score. I think it’s going to be tough for the guys this afternoon.

The course is firming up a little bit also, so it will be difficult for players to get it close to the pin. But obviously, if you’re playing really, really well, you can shoot a low score.

I really like this golf course. Last year I just had a bad Saturday. I’ll try to do things differently tomorrow. It would be nice to win the stroke play first and then, do well on Sunday. And, I’m going to play a little bit differently if I make it to Sunday, that’s for sure.

Lucas Herbert (Aus), Second Round 69 (-3), Total 137 (-7)

I think the score doesn’t really reflect how hard it was out there. It was so tough with that wind! Actually, I thought that I didn’t play well, so to finish at three-under-par, I’m stoked!

I really like this course. The greens, the layout, the length of holes – everything just set up really well for me, which is why I love coming here every year.

I would love to put myself in that top eight again so that I can just observe the first round of matchplay and give myself a little break in the morning.

Last year, going into the matchplay round, we didn’t prepare to the level it needed to be. But it’s really well-structured now and the team has done a really good job of figuring out what works for me. The preparation problems that happened last year won’t be happening again.

I wasn’t going let that double bogey (at sixth) get to my head. [He birdied the next hole]. I think I got away with it a little because on that seventh tee, we were watching the guys in front of us tee off. So, I had a bit of time to sit there and let that one (the double bogey) go. It shows how far I’ve come mentally.

Kiradech Aphibarnrat (Tha), Second Round 72 (even-par), Total 139 (-5)

I started the round pretty well, as I was four-under-par after 11 holes. Then, after the turn, I had four bogeys in a row, which was quite disappointing. I was striking the ball very well, so to see it bounce into the bunker was just hard to accept. I didn’t putt well too. I missed putts within 10 feet at about six holes.

Well, the wind did pick up, which made it more difficult out there. But overall, I wasn’t playing my best game.

I know that the target on everyone’s mind is to get to the top eight or top 24. But for me, I will always try to perform to the best of my abilities every time I come out to play. I aim to play well in front of the spectators who come out to support me.

Scores after round 2 of the ISPS HANDA WORLD SUPER 6 PERTH being played at the par 72, 7143 Yards Lake Karrinyup GC course (am – denotes amateur):

136 – Brett Rumford (AUS) 64-72, Lee Westwood (ENG) 66-70.

137 – Thorbjorn Olesen (DEN) 70-67, Lucas Herbert (AUS) 68-69, Prom Meesawat (THA) 67-70, Grant Forrest (SCO) 69-68.

138 – Zander Lombard (RSA) 68-70.

139 – Anthony Quayle (AUS) 71-68, Sean Crocker (USA) 70-69, Adam Blyth (AUS) 73-66, Kiradech Aphibarnrat (THA) 67-72, Andrea Pavan (ITA) 73-66, Min Woo Lee (am, AUS) 69-70.

140 – Wade Ormsby (AUS) 67-73, Yi-keun Chang (KOR) 67-73, Jack Wilson (AUS) 73-67, Sam Horsfield (ENG) 68-72, Yusaku Miyazato (JPN) 70-70, Nick Cullen (AUS) 72-68, Jason Scrivener (AUS) 67-73.

141 – David Bransdon (AUS) 71-70, Satoshi Kodaira (JPN) 70-71, Brad Kennedy (AUS) 69-72, Julien Guerrier (FRA) 74-67, Pavit Tangkamolprasert (THA) 70-71, Daniel Fox (AUS) 69-72, Stephen Leaney (AUS) 69-72, Ben Eccles (AUS) 72-69, Seung-Su Han (USA) 68-73.

142 – Richard Green (AUS) 69-73, Marcus Fraser (AUS) 68-74, Dimitrios Papadatos (AUS) 69-73, Jazz Janewattananond (THA) 68-74, Jake McLeod (AUS) 72-70, James Nitties (AUS) 66-76, Rattanon Wannasrichan (THA) 72-70, Suradit Yongcharoenchai (THA) 71-71, Charlie Ford (ENG) 69-73, Matthew Griffin (AUS) 70-72, Steven Brown (ENG) 72-70, Daisuke Kataoka (JPN) 67-75, Jens Fahrbring (SWE) 68-74.

Ends.

About the ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth

The ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth is a golf tournament designed to retain the traditions of the game whilst appealing to a broader audience.

About ISPS HANDA

Outside of golf, ISPS HANDA’s support extends to other sports including rowing, football, polo, bowling and the convening of discussion platforms for young leaders in sports.

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 (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

Published on March 25, 2013

Singapore, March 25: Thailand’s rising star Kiradech Aphibarnrat believes his ‘birth’ on the Asian Tour has made him a winner that he has always wanted to be following his biggest career win at the Maybank Malaysian Open last weekend.
Despite having to battle the elements and a thyroid disease, the 23-year-old showed he can match up against the best in the world when he outplayed the likes of Major winners such as South Africa’s Charl Schwartzel and Ireland’s Padraig Harrington as well as Ryder Cup star Edoardo Molinari of Italy to lift the Seagram Trophy.
With his winner’s prize cheque of US$458,330, Kiradech propelled to the top of the Asian Tour’s Order of Merit- a position where he is determined to be in when the season comes to a close at the end of the year.
“It’s the Tour (Asian Tour) where I was born. I’m 24 this year and I’ve got another 20 years to play. I’ll try to win as much as I can. I’ve three Tours to play on now (Asian Tour, Japan Tour, European Tour) and my focus will be to win the Asian Tour Order of Merit,” said Kiradech
Dubbed Asia’s John Daly due to his physique and style of play, Kiradech has raised the bar higher and is setting his sights on joining the exclusive Major winner’s club, much like his namesake.
“I’ll try to win a Major event. I cannot say when it is but I’ll try my best. I just play for fun. I don’t have any routine. I’m happy with the name, John Daly of Asia. He won a Major event and I’m proud someone has called me that,” said Kiradech.
Kiradech’s early season success has seen him notched two top-five finishes and a win in only three starts on the region’s premier Tour, which is celebrating its 10 season in 2013.
The Thai will also be making his maiden appearance at The Open Championship after he won the International Final Qualifying – Asia in Thailand earlier this month
Kiradech’s quick rise since his amateur days where he was crowned World Junior Champion on two occasions can be credited to the unity and close bond he shares with his fellow compatriots.
“The Thai pro golfers, we stay like family. Boonchu Ruangkit, Thaworn Wiratchant, Prom Meesawat, and Thongchai Jaidee, they all provide valuable advice to the younger generation,” said Kiradech.
“Boonchu and Thongchai teach me a lot and have always stressed not to put too much pressure on myself. I played the World Cup with Thongchai and I felt bad when I missed a shot but he would always tell me never to give up,” said Kiradech, whose partnership with the three-time Order of Merit winner saw them finish their World Cup campaign in tied-18th place in 2011.
India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar meanwhile slipped to second place on the Order of Merit after missing the cut in Malaysia while China’s Liang Wen-chong is in third place after his season haul of US$175,909.
The Asian Tour will travel to Thailand for inaugural Chiangmai Golf Classic presented by PTT which will be held at the Alpine Golf Resort-Chiangmai from March 28-31. Major champions Y.E Yang, Ernie Els and Michael Campbell will headline the US$750,000 full field Asian Tour event.
Asian Tour Order of Merit – Top-20
Pos      Player Earnings (US$)
1          Kiradech APHIBARNRAT   (THA)         $594,230.00
2          Gaganjeet BHULLAR   (IND)                $262,648.57
3          LIANG Wen-chong   (CHN)                  $175,909.00
4          BAEK Seuk-hyun   (KOR)                      $122,998.50
5          Joonas GRANBERG   (FIN)                   $80,812.83
6          Anirban LAHIRI   (IND)                        $74,124.00
7          Scott HEND   (AUS)                              $72,915.00
8          Chawalit PLAPHOL   (THA)                  $70,971.00
9          Jeev Milkha SINGH   (IND)                  $58,305.00
10        Berry HENSON   (USA)                        $54,526.50
11        Mithun PERERA   (SRI)                        $51,396.00
12        KIM Gi-whan   (KOR)                           $50,892.00
13        Himmat RAI   (IND)                             $49,700.00
14        Rashid KHAN   (IND)                            $49,146.00
15        Prom MEESAWAT   (THA)                   $48,784.00
16        Chinnarat PHADUNGSIL   (THA)          $45,022.50
17        Shiv KAPUR   (IND)                              $44,425.00
18        Adilson DA SILVA   (BRA)                    $44,418.00
19        Chapchai NIRAT   (THA)                      $40,523.00
20        SIDDIKUR   (BAN)                                $35,205.62
Ends.
About the Asian Tour
In 2013, the Asian Tour will celebrate a momentous milestone with its 10th season. 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 Abacus (Official Apparel Partner), BlackBerry (Official Communications Partner), Inetol Headwear (Official Headwear Supplier), Singha Beer (Official Beer), Srixon (Official Ball), Starwood Hotels and Resorts (Official Hotels and Resorts) and Rolex (Official Timekeeper). The Asian Tour has offices in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Also, visit us at www.wp-asiantour.ocs-sport.com, www.facebook.com/asiantourgolf, www.twitter.com/asiantourgolf,www.youtube.com/theasiantour and www.weibo.com/asiantourgolf

Back to News Archive

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Queenstown, New Zealand, February 21: Thailand’s Poom Saksansin is relishing the challenges of competing in New Zealand for the first time in his distinguished career when the ISPS HANDA New Zealand Open tees off next week. The 99th ISPS HANDA New Zealand Open, sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of […]

“I have heard so many wonderful things about the country especially the scenery and I want to experience it myself,” said Poom.

The ISPS HANDA New Zealand Open will see 144 players compete for the first two rounds before the halfway cut is made where the leading 60 players and ties progress to the final two rounds.

The unique nature of the event also includes 144 amateur players, who will each partner a professional in a two-man best-ball event in the first two rounds.

“It’s always interesting whenever there’s a new format. I’m looking forward to playing with my pro-am partner and most importantly, have fun,” said the 24-year-old.

“I’m playing well and hopefully I can get that next win very soon,” smiled Poom.

The Asian Tour became a full co-sanctioning partner of the ISPS HANDA New Zealand Open following an initial collaboration which saw 10 Asian Tour members featuring in the 2017 edition.

About Asian Tour

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Hero MotoCorp is major supporter of golf on all the three Tours – Asian Tour, European Tour and the US PGA Tour.

Past champion Thongchai Jaidee and Ryder Cup player, Chris Wood, who won the 2016 BMW PGA Championships, are also in the field.

A final list of confirmations will be available closer to the event.

March 27: Thailand’s Kiradech Aphibarnrat moved up 85 spots on the Official World Golf Rankings to 85th place following his victory at the Maybank Malaysian Open on Sunday. The Thai rising star enjoyed one of the biggest moves in his career when he defeated a star studded cast at the US$2.75 million event which was […]

March 27: Thailand’s Kiradech Aphibarnrat moved up 85 spots on the Official World Golf Rankings to 85th place following his victory at the Maybank Malaysian Open on Sunday.

The Thai rising star enjoyed one of the biggest moves in his career when he defeated a star studded cast at the US$2.75 million event which was sanctioned by the Asian Tour and European Tour.

Marcus Fraser of Australia, last year’s Order of Merit runner-up, was placed 63rd in the Official World Golf Ranking where Tiger Woods reclaimed the number one spot after winning on Sunday.

Ends.

Queenstown, New Zealand, February 14: Thailand’s Pavit Tangkamolprasert is looking forward to a new experience when he heads to Queenstown, New Zealand for the ISPS HANDA New Zealand Open in a fortnight. The 28-year-old, who earned his Asian Tour breakthrough in Macao in 2016, will be playing in New Zealand for the first time. Apart […]

The 99th ISPS Handa New Zealand Open will be played at Millbrook Resort and The Hills near Queenstown from March 1-4. Ends.

About Asian Tour

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Thailand’s Pavit Tangkamolprasert is looking forward to a new experience when he heads to Queenstown, New Zealand for the ISPS HANDA New Zealand Open in a fortnight.

The 99th ISPS Handa New Zealand Open will be played at Millbrook Resort and The Hills near Queenstown from March 1-4. Ends.

About Asian Tour

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Y.E. Yang (Kor)Welcome to the inaugural Chiangmai Golf Classic presented by PTT. Give us your initial thoughts about being back on the Asian Tour?It’s the middle of the season for me and I had initial doubts about coming over right before the Masters but Alpine was kind enough to invite me over for the inaugural […]

Thongchai Jaidee (Thai)

Perth, Australia, February 10: Prom Meesawat of Thailand managed the course conditions superbly to card a round-three 67 and grab the number one seed at the ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth on Saturday. Prom carded seven birdies against two bogeys to return with a 12-under-par 204 total at Lake Karrinyup Country Club. He finished […]

Sean Crocker of the United States carded a 67, while Lucas Herbert of Australia and Thorbjorn Olesen carded matching 69s to finish in tied-second.

The leading 24 players after three rounds will qualify for the six-hole knockout matchplay.

Defending champion Brett Rumford and England’s Lee Westwood failed to secure spots in the knockout matchplay after carding matching 78s.

Did you know:

Prom Meesawat is nicknamed “The Big Dolphin” because of his physique and that he hails from Hua Hin, a coastal town in Thailand.
He found 13 out of 14 fairways, and hit 16 out of 18 greens in regulation in round three.
His last matchplay experience in his professional career was in 2007, in a team event that pit Asian golfers against their European counterparts.
A$50,000 in prize money is allocated to the top three players after 54 holes.
The top eight players will go to the second round of the knockout matchplay.
The remaining 16 players will be randomly paired and will play the first round of knockout matchplay.
Knockout matches on Sunday will be played on the 10th hole (par four), 11th hole (par five), 13th hole (par four), 14th hole (par four), 12th hole (par three), 18th hole (par four).
Any matches tied after six holes will proceed to the “shootout hole”, which will utilize the 18th hole and played from a new tee box located 80-90m from the green.