Chiangmai, Thailand, March 26: Asia’s first Major winner Y.E. Yang is determined to rise from a ‘terrible’ 2012 season by winning the inaugural US$750,000 Chiangmai Golf Classic presented by PTT which starts on Thursday.
The Korean sensation is among a star-studded cast assembled at the Alpine Golf Resort-Chiangmai which includes four-time Major winner Ernie Els of South Africa, Kiradech Aphibarnrat of Thailand, who won the Maybank Malaysian Open last week, and highly rated Indian Gaganjeet Bhullar.
Former U.S. Open champion Michael Campbell of New Zealand and three-time Asian Tour Order of Merit champion Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand will also feature in Chiangmai’s first ever tournament on the Asian Tour, which is celebrating its milestone 10th season in 2013.
Yang, who is famous for winning the 2009 U.S. PGA Championship when he defeated world number one Tiger Woods, has endured a lean spell with only one top-20 on the PGA Tour and another top-10 on the Asian Tour last season.
“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 at every tournament I participated and as the year went by, the pressure mounted more and more,” said Yang, who recorded his last victory in 2010.
“This year, I’m more relaxed mentally and physically. It’s translated to a better start than last year. My form and psychology is improving. Hopefully I can get back to the state where I can get my confidence high,” he added.
With the Masters Tournament looming in two weeks’ time, Yang, who is an Asian Tour Honorary Member, wants to ensure he heads to Augusta National in buoyant mood with a good showing in Chiangmai. He believes he has the game to win the Masters where he tied for eighth in 2010.
“It is certainly winnable. You play the same course every year and you have a feel of the whole layout and tournament. I feel it’s the better Major for the Asians to excel,” said the 41-year-old.
“I’m going to try to go for another win and hopefully 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.”
The self-taught Yang is confident his fortunes will change starting with this week’s Chiangmai Golf Classic. “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,” he smiled.
Campbell, who is among three Major champions in the field, hopes to produce a consistent run to contend for his first title since 2005. He plans to take a more laid-back approach in hope of playing his best golf.

“My form has been up-and-down again. I had a chance to win the Portugal Masters and Hong Kong Open last year. I had solid weeks in Qatar and Abu Dhabi this year. 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,” said the 44-year-old.
“The last six months has been unusual. I had chances to win tournaments and then I miss a few cuts. That’s the way I am … the way I’m wired. 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.”
Campbell, who has won seven European Tour titles but not since 2005, insists he still has enough fight in him to challenge for more honours. “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,” he said.
Home star Thongchai will have one last chance to try to qualify for the Masters Tournament but needs nothing less than an outright victory in Chiangmai to break into the world’s top-50.
“It’s my dream and if I win, then I will qualify. I 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 with the weather delays as you couldn’t get any momentum,” said the Thai, who is ranked 59th in the world.
The former paratrooper lauded the Chiangmai Golf Classic as important milestone for golf in Thailand and the Asian Tour. “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,” he said.
The Chiangmai Golf Classic presented by PTT is primed to extensively promote Chiangmai as a top golfing and tourist destination through the four days of live broadcasts on the Asian Tour’s global television platform, which reaches over 200 countries and 650 million homes.
The Chiangmai Golf Classic is supported by PTT Group Company Limited, one of the largest corporations in Thailand, while other premier sponsors include PTT Public Company Ltd, Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Advanced Info Service Plc, Siam Commercial Bank PCL, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Provincial Government of Chiangmai, Chiangmai Provincial Administrative Organisation, CAT Telecom Public Company Ltd, TOT Public Company Ltd, Thai Airways International Public Company Ltd, Thai Beverage Public Company Limited, Samart I-mobile PCL , Loxley Wireless Co Ltd, Forth Corporation Public Company Ltd, J.R.W Utility Plc, Standard Tour Co Ltd, Advanced Information Technology Public Company Ltd, Fenix Apparel and Accessories Co Ltd and Sports Authority of Thailand.
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), Canon (Official Imaging Partner), Inetol Headwear (Official Headwear Supplier), Saxo Capital Markets (Official Statistic Partner), 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
About IMG
IMG Worldwide is a global sports, fashion and media business, with nearly 3,000 employees operating in more than 30 countries around the globe. IMG’s areas of expertise are diverse and wide ranging: IMG College; IMG’s Joint Ventures in India, China, Brazil and Turkey; IMG Media; IMG Events and Federations; IMG Fashion; IMG Models; IMG Art+Commerce; IMG Clients; IMG Academy; IMG Consulting and IMG Licensing. More information is available at www.imgworld.com. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Perth, Australia, February 11: Kiradech Aphibarnrat of Thailand beat James Nitties of Australia 2&1 to win the ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth on Sunday.

The 28-year-old golfer recovered brilliantly from being 1-down after two holes to win three consecutive holes and beat his opponent in the grand finals of the A$1.75 million (approximately US$1.25 million) event.

Kiradech progressed to Sunday after winning a tense, four-hole playoff over Australia’s Anthony Quayle at the end of round three.

After besting Ben Eccles of Australia 1-up in the first round, Kiradech beat 2017 Japan Golf Tour number one Yusaku Miyazato in a close match that stretched to the fifth Knockout Hole.

He went on to defeat Sean Crocker of the United States 1-up in the quarter finals and Lucas Herbert of Australia in the semi-finals at the first Knockout Hole.

Nitties beat fellow Australians Nick Cullen, Dimitrios Papadatos and Callan O’Reilly as well as England’s Sam Horsfield at Lake Karrinyup Country Club before meeting Kiradech in the finals.

In the match for third place, Herbert beat Horsfield 3&1.

Asian Tour players Pavit Tangkamolprasert, Poom Saksansin, Prom Meesawat and Yi-keun Chang also played in the knockout matchplay rounds of the ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth.

In the first round, Thailand’s Pavit established the pace with a birdie at the second hole, but he eventually lost to Australia’s Callan O’Reilly 2&1. Compatriot Poom was narrowly eliminated by Marcus Fraser of Australia at the sixth Knockout Hole.

Prom, who received a bye into the second round, got knocked out of the competition by amateur golfer Min Woo Lee 2-up. Lee was in irresistible form, scoring five birdies against Prom.

Chang of Korea made it to the second round after defeating Zander Lombard of South Africa 3&2. However, he was eliminated by Australia’s Brad Kennedy at the first Knockout Hole.

Did you know:

• Kiradech Aphibarnrat did not get a chance to practice at the Lake Karrinyup Country Club as he flew into Perth the evening prior to the tournament.
• He was the last player to enter the competition, the last player to enter the matchplay knockout rounds and the last man standing.
• Kiradech has won a matchplay event in his professional career previously, at the 2015 Paul Lawrie Matchplay.
• He will be competing at the Brunei Championships, an event on the Asian Development Tour, from March 7 to 10.
• James Nitties’ most recent professional win was the South Pacific Open Championship in 2015. He beat the field by six shots.
• Nitties played the Knockout Hole only once enroute to the finals, in round one against Nick Cullen.
• He finished tied-68th in last year’s ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth after carding 70 73.
• Prom Meesawat earned A$25,000 by virtue of finishing in first place after 54 holes. Sean Crocker of the United States, Lucas Herbert of Australia and Thorbjorn Olesen of Denmark split another A$25,000 for their tied-second finish.
• The Knockout Hole was played from a new tee box located approximately 80 to 90 metres from the 18th green on the right-hand side of the 18th fairway.

Player’s Quotes:

Kiradech Aphibarnrat (Tha)

It has been an awesome week. In the last few months, I’ve been getting really close at winning a tournament and I’ve finally I’ve done it.

Every single shot counts especially in matchplay. Every single match was tough. James (Nitties) was playing so well, and he was just unlucky at the end. The drive at the fourth matchplay hole was one of the best tee shots in my life so far.

I’ve played the 18th hole so many times, I can recognise almost every single feature there. And, to play with a young and talented player like Lucas (Herbert) was an honour. He hits the ball miles and his confidence is massive. I did not look beyond James, of course, but I felt that I have one hand on the trophy after beating Lucas. The young golfer is definitely one of the strongest in the field and one to watch.

There were many times when I felt that I would be eliminated from the tournament. Winning any event is never easy. I pushed myself and I’m glad that things turned out the way it did.

I knew that I made a mistake at the first hole of the final, but in matchplay, things can turn around very quickly. James is pretty unlucky for the day. The shots he missed, he found it difficult to recover. I pushed myself to make the putt at the fourth hole, and I’m glad I managed to do it.

The most difficult aspect of this golf course are the bunkers. If you can avoid them, you can put together a pretty good score.

The concept is great. I’m sure you would have attracted more fans after this tournament.

This victory means a lot to me. It is particularly rewarding when you focus on something and try very hard.

James Nitties (Aus)

It’s a sad way to go down, considering a win might have got me some playing rights somewhere in the world because I currently have no status. But, it was a great week.

Tricky lies is a good way of saying I was hitting it badly. I wasn’t hitting my driver well off the tee, but I managed to Houdini my way out of a couple of lies and get a couple of birdies.

Kiradech was too good. He eagled and birdied down the stretch, so pretty much, he got it done for him. His performance of the week was amazing. All credit to him. He’s a good bloke and he played really well.

Perth has been just absolutely fantastic. The weather’s perfect and it has beach views every day most of the time. It’s a fun week and I love this tournament.

Prom Meesawat (Tha)

I started birdie-birdie. In fact, I birdied three times over six holes. But Min (Woo Lee), he was playing awesome golf. He hit four birdies in a row in my match and there was nothing I could do about it. He’s a great player!

The tournament is good fun. Six holes is pretty short and you have to really get your game going. It opens the doors for all the players who made it to the matchplay knockout to win. Just look at me. I finished first after 54 holes, but got knocked out. But don’t get me wrong; I like the format.

I’ve been playing well. I’m striking the ball well and putting well. This week, after playing in this tournament, I understood my process a lot better. I will make more notes and improve on the things that I have observed during the World Super 6 Perth.

Pavit Tangkamolprasert (Tha)

I scored the first hole-in-one in my life and I made it to the knockout matchplay. So, it has been a great tournament for me. I’ve done my best. But, on a matchplay day, anything could have happened. I played well, birdied the second hole, but he went on to sink two birdies in a row. I can’t do anything about that.

I like the matchplay format. As I’ve found out, you have to be in form, especially with your putting. You’ll get a huge advantage with that.

Poom Saksansin (Tha)

I’m really happy with what happened at the tournament. I could have gone home early! In the second round, I nearly missed the cut, but I got through. Similarly, in the third round, I was on the line again and I made it through to Sunday after a playoff.

The format is really fun and very fast-going as it is just six holes. The shootout was a little too long, though. I did the best out there. I’m really happy for my opponent, Marcus Fraser, he did very well there.

Yi-keun Chang (Kor)

I played well in my first match. But in the second match, I’m really disappointed with myself. I’m not mad about my loss, just a bit disappointed. The golf I played was pretty bad. I’ll go home and work on a few things and sharpen my game up. Things like, my wedge shots and my distances. Even at the Knockout Hole. It was only 100 yards, but I hit it too far.

This tournament has been fun. I hope to be able to come back again.

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.

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Chiangmai, Thailand, March 26: Thai star Thongchai Jaidee is seeking divine intervention as he chases victory at the inaugural US$750,000 Chiangmai Golf Classic presented by PTT which will secure him a return to the Masters Tournament next month.Currently ranked 59th in the world, the three-time Asian Tour number one needs nothing less than a win at the Alpine Golf Resort-Chiangmai this week to break into the top-50 which is the final cut-off to earn a place in the year’s first Major.
The 13-time winner visited one of Chiangmai’s most famous temples this morning – the
Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep – ahead of the Chiangmai Golf Classic which starts on Thursday. He is praying for a strong showing against a stellar field which includes Major champions Ernie Els, Michael Campbell, Y.E. Yang and the in-form Kiradech Aphibarnrat, who won in Malaysia on Sunday.

“It’s my dream and if I win, then I will qualify. I will try my best. I want to play well this week, there’s a good chance. If not, then no problem,” he said.
A start-stop week at the Maybank Malaysian Open due to weather disruptions saw Thongchai finish tied 33rd.
“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,” said Thongchai.
“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.”
A return to Chiangmai brings back fond memories for Thongchai as he was part of the Thai amateur team which won the 1995 Southeast Asian Games team gold medal.
He also lauded the launch of the Asian Tour’s newest and first tournament in the northern city of Chiangmai. “This is the first Asian Tour tournament in Chiangmai and I’m very proud of it. A lot of Thai people are very excited to see a new tournament here. I played here in the 1995 SEA Games and although the course has now changed, it is fantastic and the condition is very good.”
The Chiangmai Golf Classic presented by PTT is primed to extensively promote Chiangmai as a top golfing and tourist destination through the four days of live broadcasts on the Asian Tour’s global television platform, which reaches over 200 countries and 650 million homes.
The Chiangmai Golf Classic is supported by PTT Group Company Limited, one of the largest corporations in Thailand, while other premier sponsors include PTT Public Company Ltd, Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Advanced Info Service Plc, Siam Commercial Bank PCL, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Provincial Government of Chiangmai, Chiangmai Provincial Administrative Organisation, CAT Telecom Public Company Ltd, TOT Public Company Ltd, Thai Airways International Public Company Ltd, Thai Beverage Public Company Limited, Samart I-mobile PCL , Loxley Wireless Co Ltd, Forth Corporation Public Company Ltd, J.R.W Utility Plc, Standard Tour Co Ltd, Advanced Information Technology Public Company Ltd, Fenix Apparel and Accessories Co Ltd and Sports Authority of Thailand.
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), Canon (Official Imaging Partner), Inetol Headwear (Official Headwear Supplier), Saxo Capital Markets (Official Statistic Partner), 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

Watch how Kiradech Aphibarnrat of Thailand dramatically won the 2018 ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth.

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.

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 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.

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.

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
www.twitter.com/asiantourgolf
www.youtube.com/theasiantour
www.weibo.com/asiantourgolf

Chiang Mai, March 26: China’s Hu Mu believes playing in the same event as Major winners Ernie Els, Y.E. Yang and Michael Campbell at the Chiangmai Golf Classic presented by PTT will further strengthen his confidence and golf game.

Hu and countryman Ye Jian-feng are among an elite field gathered at the US$750,000 Asian Tour event which is staged at the Alpine Golf Resort-Chiangmai.

“I think it is a great opportunity for me because with Ernie Els and Y.E. Yang in the field it will boost the World Ranking points. It is really a week where you want to finish high and take advantage of this,” said Hu.

Playing on a sponsor’s invitation, Hu said his game has improved since finishing tied 39th at the season-opening Zaykabar Myanmar Open last month.

“My game is getting better. Swing wise, it is getting more mature and getting more consistent compared to Qualifying School earlier in the year,” said the 23-year-old.

He has been working on a new fitness regime which will give his swing an extra edge as he bids to become the third Chinese golfer after Zhang Lian-wei and Liang Wen-chong to win on the Asian Tour.

“I need to improve on my fitness because there are things in my swing which I can’t achieve. There are limitations by my flexibility of strength. If I can get those parts stronger and flexible then it is easier to maintain a good swing.

“I have worked out a programme each day with my trainer. It is something to let me warm-up before my play. I need to do it twenty minutes before play just to trigger all my body parts to do the right things. It is pretty much trying to get my muscle ready for tournaments,” he said.

Hu holds fond memories of Yang’s historic victory at the 2009 US PGA Championship even though he was heartbroken to see Tiger Woods lose.

“When Yang won, I actually felt sad because Tiger got beaten! But it is great that Yang did all this and I will always remember his shot on 18 when he hit his three iron over the trees. It was such an unbelievable shot and he really played well,” said Hu.

Ends.

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

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
www.twitter.com/asiantourgolf
www.youtube.com/theasiantour
www.weibo.com/asiantourgolf

Chiangmai, Thailand, March 28: Asian Tour supremo Kyi Hla Han believes a new wave of exciting talents will start to dominate the region’s premier Tour following stand-out performances by the region’s young guns over the past month.

India’s Anirban Lahiri, 25, started a glorious run for the young guns by claiming his third Asian Tour victory at the SAIL-SBI Open on home soil earlier this month before countryman Gaganjeet Bhullar, who is a year younger, settled for second place in the co-sanctioned Avantha Masters as his bid for a fifth career Asian Tour title fell just short.

Then last weekend, Thailand’s exciting 23-year-old Kiradech Aphibarnrat stole the thunder by winning the star-studded Maybank Malaysian Open for his second Asian Tour title.

“We’re witnessing some really great golf by the Asian Tour’s young generation of golfers,” enthused Han, who is the Tour’s Executive Chairman and a former Asian number one himself.

“The quality of play which is being produced by the likes of Anirban Lahiri, Gaganjeet Bhullar and Kiradech Aphibarnrat has been wonderful to watch, truly world class indeed.

“With age on their side, they could start to dominate the scene very soon, just as how the likes of Thongchai Jaidee, Jyoti Randhawa, Jeev Milkha Singh, Prayad Marksaeng and Thaworn Wiratchant consistently contended at the highest level on the Asian Tour in the past decade.

“It is wonderful to watch so many of these young players, who were born and bred on the Asian Tour, coming of age. They will only get better and I foresee many of them going on to leave an impression on the world stage very soon. This could be the start of another exciting era for the Asian Tour,” added Han.

Kiradech claimed a stellar win on Sunday which shot him to the top of the Order of Merit. Along with Lahiri and Bhullar, all three will feature in this week’s inaugural US$750,000 Chiangmai Golf Classic presented by PTT at the Alpine Golf Resort-Chiangmai.

Major champions Ernie Els of South Africa, New Zealander Michael Campbell and Y.E. Yang of Korea are headlining the full-field Asian Tour event, the first ever in the northern city of Chiangmai.

Thongchai, who holds a record three Order of Merit crowns, believes the new generation of players coming through will provide the boost for the game to maintain its rapid growth on the Asian Tour, which is celebrating its milestone 10th season in 2013.

“I think Kiradech will be the future,” predicted Thongchai.

“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 this year. I think he will have a good chance to win if he keeps playing like this. This tournament 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 over here because the opportunities to play on the Asian Tour have provided the foundation for players to become better.

“I have played with Kiradech quite often, played the World Cup with him. He’s got everything except for experience. He needs to get more experience for the future. Winning last week will help him a lot. I think he will be a star player in the future.”

The Chiangmai Golf Classic presented by PTT is primed to extensively promote Chiangmai as a top golfing and tourist destination through the four days of live broadcasts on the Asian Tour’s global television platform, which reaches over 200 countries and 650 million homes.

The Chiangmai Golf Classic is supported by PTT Group Company Limited, one of the largest corporations in Thailand, while other premier sponsors include PTT Public Company Ltd, Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Advanced Info Service Plc, Siam Commercial Bank PCL, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Provincial Government of Chiangmai, Chiangmai Provincial Administrative Organisation, CAT Telecom Public Company Ltd, TOT Public Company Ltd, Thai Airways International Public Company Ltd, Thai Beverage Public Company Limited, Samart I-mobile PCL , Loxley Wireless Co Ltd, Forth Corporation Public Company Ltd, J.R.W Utility Plc, Standard Tour Co Ltd, Advanced Information Technology Public Company Ltd, Fenix Apparel and Accessories Co Ltd and Sports Authority of Thailand.

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), Canon (Official Imaging Partner), Inetol Headwear (Official Headwear Supplier), Saxo Capital Markets (Official Statistic Partner), 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

About IMG
IMG Worldwide is a global sports, fashion and media business, with nearly 3,000 employees operating in more than 30 countries around the globe. IMG’s areas of expertise are diverse and wide ranging: IMG College; IMG’s Joint Ventures in India, China, Brazil and Turkey; IMG Media; IMG Events and Federations; IMG Fashion; IMG Models; IMG Art+Commerce; IMG Clients; IMG Academy; IMG Consulting and IMG Licensing. More information is available at www.imgworld.com. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Perth, Australia, February 9: Lee Westwood of England shot a second-round two-under-par 70 under gusty conditions to share the lead with Brett Rumford of Australia at the ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth on Friday.

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

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.

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