Yangon, January 26: Thailand’s Rattanon Wannasrichan remained in the driver’s seat together with American Paul Peterson as they stayed ahead of the chasing pack after the second round of the Leopalace21 Myanmar Open on Friday.
Peterson hauled himself back into contention with a five-under-par 66 while Rattanon’s excellent short game ensured he would share the day’s honour when he signed for a 69.
Peterson, who lost his playing status in Europe, had an encouraging run with five top-10 finishes on the Asian Tour in the last quarter of 2017.
Although he missed the cut in the season-opener in Singapore last week, the left-handed American believes he has the game to contend for the Leopalace21 Myanmar Open title after compiling a two-day total of eight-under-par 134.
Rattanon was left to rue several costly mistakes because of his bad tee shots but had his putter to thank for keeping him in the lead at the Pun Hlaing Golf Club.
Micah Lauren Shin of the United States continued his good form by returning with a 66 despite hitting four balls into the water hazards. The 2017 Asian Tour Rookie of the Year shared third place together with Korea’s Junwon Park and Japan’s Masahiro Kawamura at the US$750,000 event that is sanctioned by the Asian Tour and Japan Golf Tour Organisation (JGTO).
Star attraction Ryo Ishikawa of Japan missed the weekend cut which was set at even-par
Did you know?
· Rattanon Wannasrichan enjoyed a wire-to-wire victory when he lifted his maiden Asian Tour title on home soil last year. He continues to hold the lead after two days this week.
· Rattanon only managed to hit 11 greens in regulation while making a total of 27 putts in his second round.
· Paul Peterson came through the Asian Tour Qualifying School in 2014 and claimed his first title on the European Tour at the 2016 D+D REAL Czech Masters.
· Peterson has yet to win on the Asian Tour but came close towards the end of 2017 with two tied-second finishes in India and Hong Kong.
· The American ended the 2017 season in 13th place on the Asian Tour Order of Merit.
· The par-four second hole at the Pun Hlaing Golf Club continues to be Micah Lauren Shin’s bogey hole as he continues to drop shot on that hole over the last two days.
· Shin has hit 13 greens in regulation on each day in his first two rounds.
Players’ Quotes
Rattanon Wannasrichan (Tha) Second round Two-under-par 69, Total 134 (-8)
I didn’t hit the ball as well as yesterday. I missed several fairways and only managed to return with a two-under-par. My putting saved me today as I managed to sink several long putts. The round was okay except for two bad holes on 16 and 17. I try to play my best and play shot by shot this weekend. I have to stay patient as that will be the key for me this week.
Paul Peterson (Usa) Second round Five-under-par 66, Total 134 (-8)
I got off to a fine start. I hit some quality wedge shots in the beginning and gave myself several scoring opportunities. I felt like I was in control of my golf balls and I’m really happy. I’ve been trying to rehydrate and get my energy back after suffering from a heat stroke in Singapore last week. It was a big adjustment for me having to go from Virginia in the US to the tropical heat here. I finished strongly last year and I feel I still have much of that momentum. It was a growth year for me having lost my card in Europe. It made me appreciate every single start I had. I gained a lot of perspective last year. I really to do my best to get back out there.
Micah Lauren Shin (Usa) Second round Five-under-par 66, Total 135 (-7)
I was actually hitting the ball really well but it was just those missed shots that went into the water. Those were all my tee shots. But I managed to recover in those three other holes to save par. I could have made birdie on two of them as they were on the par-five. After I missed the cut in Singapore, I just went to the range to practice. I was not hitting my driver well. I changed my driver this week and it’s helping me to hit the ball straighter. Every aspect of your game has to be sharp on this golf course. Tee shots are really important and the greens are really firm. So you got to place it properly and hit the right shots. If you miss them, you got to get up and down.
Masahiro Kawamura (Jpn) Second round, Three-under-par 68, Total 135 (-7)
I feel I could have putted better as I missed several short putts these last two days. But it’s nice to be among the leaders as we head into the weekend rounds here in Myanmar. I need to work on my short game and if I can do that, maybe something special will happen on Sunday.
Leading Scores after round 2 of the LeoPalace21 Myanmar Open 2018 being played at the par 71, 7103 Yards Pun Hliang GC course (am – denotes amateur):
134 – Paul PETERSON (USA) 68-66, Rattanon WANNASRICHAN (THA) 65-69.
135 – Micah Lauren SHIN (USA) 69-66, Masahiro KAWAMURA (JPN) 67-68, Junwon PARK (KOR) 68-67.
136 – Yusaku MIYAZATO (JPN) 71-65.
137 – Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA) 70-67, Tomoyo IKEMURA (JPN) 71-66, Toru NAKAJIMA (JPN) 69-68, Casey O’TOOLE (USA) 68-69, Lionel WEBER (FRA) 68-69, Shaun NORRIS (RSA) 67-70.
138 – Satoshi KODAIRA (JPN) 69-69, Seungsu HAN (USA) 67-71, Prom MEESAWAT (THA) 69-69, Miguel TABUENA (PHI) 69-69, Arjun ATWAL (IND) 70-68, Shugo IMAHIRA (JPN) 70-68, David OH (USA) 67-71, Rikuya HOSHINO (JPN) 68-70, Toshinori MUTO (JPN) 71-67.
139 – LU Wei-chih (TPE) 70-69, Pavit TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 68-71, Koki FURUTA (JPN) 74-65, Tatsuya KODAI (JPN) 69-70, Sihwan KIM (USA) 69-70, Mikumu HORIKAWA (JPN) 68-71, Hiroshi IWATA (JPN) 71-68, Masashi HIDAKA (JPN) 70-69, Berry HENSON (USA) 68-71, Poom SAKSANSIN (THA) 68-71, Daijiro IZUMIDA (JPN) 72-67.
140 – Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA) 72-68, Ajeetesh SANDHU (IND) 70-70, LIU Yan-wei (CHN) 69-71, Hyungsung KIM (KOR) 69-71.
141 – Scott VINCENT (ZIM) 68-73, Shiv KAPUR (IND) 72-69, Yikeun CHANG (KOR) 70-71, Todd SINNOTT (AUS) 71-70, Daisuke MARUYAMA (JPN) 73-68, Richard T. LEE (CAN) 69-72, Keith HORNE (RSA) 68-73, Arnond VONGVANIJ (THA) 71-70, Tadahiro TAKAYAMA (JPN) 73-68, Ben LEONG (MAS) 71-70, Kieran PRATT (AUS) 68-73, Yuta IKEDA (JPN) 69-72, Kitaek KWON (KOR) 72-69, Narutoshi YAMAOKA (JPN) 70-71.
142 – Chapchai NIRAT (THA) 71-71, Ye Htet AUNG (MYN) 71-71, LIANG Wen-chong (CHN) 71-71, Kunihiro KAMII (JPN) 72-70, Pannakorn UTHAIPAS (THA) 73-69, Eric SUGIMOTO (JPN) 73-69, Naing Naing LIN (MYN) 67-75, Natipong SRITHONG (THA) 69-73, Zaw Zaw LATT (MYN) 71-71, Younghan SONG (KOR) 71-71, Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND) 70-72, Rashid KHAN (IND) 71-71, Ryuji MASAOKA (JPN) 70-72, Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA) 71-71, Jyoti RANDHAWA (IND) 70-72, Kyungnam KANG (KOR) 71-71.
Ends.
About Leopalace21
Founded in 1973, Leopalace21 is a real estate company which constructs and rents apartments, currently managing 560 thousand rooms in Japan. The company also owns and operates a 36-hole golf course and resort facility in Guam, as well as 15 overseas offices which introduce residences and offices to Japanese companies advancing into the ASEAN region.
Leopalace21 Corporation: http://eg.leopalace21.com/
Leopalace Resort Guam: http://www.guam.ne.jp/
About Asian Tour
As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Rolex (Official Timekeeper), Panasonic (Official Consumer Electronics), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), 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
Kuala Lumpur, March 22: Gavin Green became the first Malaysian amateur in 10 years to qualify for the weekend rounds at the US$2.75 million Maybank Malaysian Open after posting an impressive four-under-par 68 in the second round on Friday.
The 19-year-old Malaysian Amateur champion, who is studying at the University of New Mexico, carded five birdies against a lone bogey at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club for a two-day total of three-under-par 141.
Playing alongside 2011 Maybank Malaysian Open champion Matteo Manaserro and current Asian Tour Order of Merit leader Gaganjeet Bhullar, the big-hitting Green reinforced his growing reputation as a player to watch with an accomplished performance.
“I played well in the second round. First round was a bit shaky (where he shot a 73). I got more comfortable with the golf course and didn’t do much mistakes compared to the first round. I just got to play my game again. If I can do that, I know I will be okay,” said Green.
The last Malaysian amateur to feature in all four rounds at the Malaysian Open was S. Siva Chandhran in 2003 where he finished tied 72nd.
Green is certainly well placed to better Siva’s finish. He said he enjoyed the experience of playing alongside Manassero, the youngest champion at the Maybank Malaysian Open and also three-time winner in Europe, and Bhullar, who is a four-time Asian Tour champion.
“It was nice playing with Matteo and Gaganjeet. Their irons are really good, always straight at the pin,” said Green.
“I really want to break the top-20, that’s my goal right now.”
Green has been touted as next great Malaysian hope following some impressive performances. At the Asian Tour’s season-ending Iskandar Johor Open in Malaysia last December, he finished tied 18th and impressed playing partner Ernie Els of South Africa with his game and poise.
Following another day of weather disruption, several other Malaysians will return on Saturday at 7.45am to complete their second rounds.
S. Murthy, who opened his campaign with a 67, was three over through eight holes as he fell back to two-under for the tournament. Danny Chia, who started with a 71 on Thursday, was level par through six holes.
The projected halfway cut is even par 144, with Murthy and Chia fighting to stay in the tournament alongside teenager Green.
About Maybank
The Maybank Group is Malaysia’s regional financial services leader with an international network of over 2,200 offices in 20 countries namely Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines, Brunei Darussalam, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Papua New Guinea, Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China, Myanmar, Laos, Bahrain, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, India, Saudi Arabia, Great Britain and the United States of America.
The Group offers an extensive range of products and services, which includes commercial banking, investment banking, Islamic banking, stock broking, insurance and takaful and asset management. It has over 46,000 employees serving 22 million customers worldwide.
About the Malaysian Golf Association
Founded in 1929, the Malaysian Golf Association (MGA) as the sole governing body of golf in Malaysia has been entrusted to promote the game while preserving its traditions and integrity.
It’s a non-government organization that runs by volunteers who are passionate about the game with the help of a team of management staff.
The Association’s portfolios have increased over the years ranging from conducting 14 state amateur opens, national amateur open, national amateur close, Malaysian Open to processing handicaps through its National Handicap System to promoting grassroots programs and training of the athletes to represent Malaysia in the international events.
We take our responsibilities seriously in promoting the game in Malaysia while simultaneously upholding the Rules of Golf as prescribed by the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (R&A).
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 Statistics 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 The European Tour
The European Tour is committed to celebrating the game of golf from the origins of the professional game, building a proud history of achievement, sportsmanship and integrity as well as showcasing our diverse global talent and rich landscapes. The European Tour’s innovative approach enables us to embrace the world, combining championships of tradition with new tournaments in the cities and countries of the future.
The European Tour International Schedule, which from 2009 has incorporated The Race to Dubai, is a thriving global brand which, in 2012, will feature a minimum of 46 tournaments spread across all five continents of the world; the European Challenge Tour focuses on the up and coming players of the future; while the European Senior Tour provides a new start for champions celebrating their 50th birthday.
The European Tour’s corporate identity features the iconic silhouette image of six-time Open Champion Harry Vardon who gives his name to The Harry Vardon Trophy, presented to the player who is crowned European Tour Number One and winner of The Race to Dubai at the end of the season.
About Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club
Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club (KLGCC) is a member of Sime Darby Property Bhd and a propriety Club wholly-owned and operated by KLGCC Berhad. The club has won numerous accolades from both local and foreign golfing fraternity, the latest being voted the Malaysia’s Golf Club of the Year in Par Golf Awards 2011, No.1 Golf Course in Malaysia and Best Clubhouse in Asia Pacific by Asian Golf Monthly Awards 2011 and HAPA Golf Course of the Year by the prestigious Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards Regional Series 2011 – 2013. Today, it has become a landmark as the most luxurious golf resort development in Malaysia and KLGCC has in recent years hosted numerous international championships such as the Maybank Malaysian Open and the Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia.
About GlobalOne
GlobalOne is an executive lifestyle sports marketing consultancy. We have in the past created partnerships in golf, motor racing, sailing, tennis, rugby, skiing, athletics, basketball, cycling and skiing. Today, as an event promoter, GlobalOne’s primary focus and area of sports rights ownership is professional golf.
Ends
Yangon, January 25: Thailand’s Rattanon Wannasrichan delivered a short game masterclass by firing a flawless six-under-par 65 to set the early pace at the US$750,000 Leopalace21 Myanmar Open on Thursday.
The 22-year-old Thai displayed the form that led him to his maiden victory on home soil last year by cruising through with a sparkling first round which was highlighted by six birdies at the Pun Hlaing Golf Club.
Myanmar’s Naing Naing Lin showed why he is the country’s top player when he returned with a 67 to trail Rattanon by two shots. He was among the five players bunched in tied-second place which also included 2016 Leopalace21 Myanmar Open champion Shaun Norris of South Africa.
Lin, a father-of-two, believes it is his combination of skills and luck that brought him close to the leaderboard summit while Norris relished another happy return to Myanmar at the US$750,000 event which is sanctioned by the Asian Tour and Japan Golf Tour Organisation (JGTO).
Australia’s Kieran Pratt, who put aside his golf clubs and spent two years working in a construction company in Melbourne, delighted himself with a 68 to take a share of seventh place as he continues to rebuild his professional golf career.
The Australian is now hoping for a strong performance which can be the catalyst for him to return to the heights of 2012 when he won his lone Asian Tour title at the Myanmar Open.
Star attraction Ryo Ishikawa of Japan posted an opening 70 to take a share of 34th place, five shots back of Rattanon.
Did you know?
· Thailand’s Rattanon Wannasrichan earned his maiden breakthrough on the Asian Tour with a wire-to-wire victory at his National Open in May last year.
· Rattanon also represented Thailand during his amateur days and won the team and individual gold medals at the 2011 Southeast Asian Games in Indonesia.
· The Thai hit 16 greens in regulation and made a total of 29 putts today.
· Naing Naing Lin played six tournaments on the domestic tour in Myanmar, winning three of them and finishing inside the top-10 twice to emerge as the country’s Order of Merit champion.
· The 33-year-old turned professional in 2007 and plays mostly in Myanmar.
· Shaun Norris is currently leading the Asian Tour Order of Merit thanks to his tied-second result at the season opening event in Singapore last week.
· Norris followed up his maiden Asian Tour victory in Chinese Taipei in 2015 with his second win at the 2016 Leopalace21 Myanmar Open.
· Kieran Pratt is playing in his first event that offers Official World Ranking points in two years.
· He missed the grade at Qualifying School after finishing tied-57th and spent the last two years working at a construction company in Melbourne.
Players’ Quotes:
Rattanon Wannasrichan (Tha) First round Six-under-par 65
The course conditions are almost similar to last year. The greens are very hard and fast. You got to be really accurate off the tee here. I putted well and that was key. I’ve been practicing a lot off-season and changed the way I hit the ball. My ball flight is now different and I’m able to control the ball better now. I missed the cut by one shot last year and I hope to do better this week. I hope to end the year inside the top-10 on the Asian Tour Order of Merit
Shaun Norris (Rsa) First round Four-under-par 67
I played nicely today. I played solid and I’m very happy with my round. I can’t complain about the weather and course conditions. It was absolutely perfect out there. The greenkeepers have done well. Winning the Myanmar Open in 2016 was a massive stepping stone for me so it’s always nice to come back. I’m very happy with my game at the moment. I’m playing each hole as it is. I’m not expecting too much but I’m very happy with where I’m at the moment.
Naing Naing Lin (Myn) First round Four-under-par 67
I played well but I was also lucky. I’ve been hitting the ball well. I hit 17 greens in regulation and only hit one shot into the bunker on six for a bogey. The Myanmar PGA organised several practice rounds for us before this week’s tournament and I’m happy I took full advantage of those practice sessions.
Kieran Pratt (Aus) First round Three-under-par 68
That win (2012 Myanmar Open victory) seems so long ago. I was working full-time in a building company back in Melbourne but I was playing weekend golf with my mates and shooting some really low scores. I was not really playing well back then and thought I had to do something else for a while. But deep inside, I always enjoy being on the golf course and thought there’s where I should be. My last day with the building company was 21st December last year as I tried to get ready for Qualifying School. Unfortunately I did not make the grade. I’m hoping to return to the game slowly and plot my way back again.
Ryo Ishikawa (Jpn) First round One-under-par 70
I wish I was able to play one or two shot better today. I was two-under after 15 holes and I missed a four-foot putt on 15 and missed another birdie putt on the last. But it’s okay, it’s still an under-par round and there’s still everything to play for. The weather’s very good today. It was little hot and the greens were firmer than yesterday.
Leading scores after round 1 of the LeoPalace21 Myanmar Open 2018 being played at the par 71, 7103 Yards Pun Hliang GC course (am – denotes amateur):
65 – Rattanon WANNASRICHAN (THA).
67 – Naing Naing LIN (MYN), Shaun NORRIS (RSA), David OH (USA), Masahiro KAWAMURA (JPN), Seungsu HAN (USA).
68 – Berry HENSON (USA), Casey O’TOOLE (USA), Kieran PRATT (AUS), Lionel WEBER (FRA), Poom SAKSANSIN (THA), Junwon PARK (KOR), Rikuya HOSHINO (JPN), Scott VINCENT (ZIM), Paul PETERSON (USA), Pavit TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA), Mikumu HORIKAWA (JPN), Keith HORNE (RSA).
69 – Toru NAKAJIMA (JPN), Chikkarangappa S. (IND), Natipong SRITHONG (THA), Kodai ICHIHARA (JPN), LIU Yan-wei (CHN), Yuta IKEDA (JPN), Hyungsung KIM (KOR), Satoshi KODAIRA (JPN), Micah Lauren SHIN (USA), Shunya TAKEYASU (JPN), Prom MEESAWAT (THA), Tatsuya KODAI (JPN), Miguel TABUENA (PHI), Richard T. LEE (CAN), Sihwan KIM (USA).
70 – Zaw MOE (MYN), Bowen XIAO (CHN), Arjun ATWAL (IND), Shugo IMAHIRA (JPN), Narutoshi YAMAOKA (JPN), Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND), Ryuji MASAOKA (JPN), Shohei KARIMATA (JPN), Terry PILKADARIS (AUS), Jyoti RANDHAWA (IND), Ryutaro NAGANO (JPN), LU Wei-chih (TPE), Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA), Ryo ISHIKAWA (JPN), Yikeun CHANG (KOR), Taichi NABETANI (JPN), Ajeetesh SANDHU (IND), Masashi HIDAKA (JPN).
71 – Zaw Zaw LATT (MYN), Ben LEONG (MAS), Younghan SONG (KOR), Masanori KOBAYASHI (JPN), Khalin JOSHI (IND), Rashid KHAN (IND), Katsumasa MIYAMOTO (JPN), Jarin TODD (USA), Jake HIGGINBOTTOM (AUS), Toshinori MUTO (JPN), Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA), Kyungnam KANG (KOR), Chapchai NIRAT (THA), Backjun AN (KOR), Ye Htet AUNG (MYN), Jbe KRUGER (RSA), Konosuke NAKAZATO (JPN), Nicholas FUNG (MAS), Yusaku MIYAZATO (JPN), Johannes VEERMAN (USA), Todd SINNOTT (AUS), Adilson DA SILVA (BRA), LIANG Wen-chong (CHN), Hiroshi IWATA (JPN), Tomoyo IKEMURA (JPN), Arnond VONGVANIJ (THA).
Ends.
About Leopalace21
Founded in 1973, Leopalace21 is a real estate company which constructs and rents apartments, currently managing 560 thousand rooms in Japan. The company also owns and operates a 36-hole golf course and resort facility in Guam, as well as 15 overseas offices which introduce residences and offices to Japanese companies advancing into the ASEAN region.
Leopalace21 Corporation: http://eg.leopalace21.com/
Leopalace Resort Guam: http://www.guam.ne.jp/
About Asian Tour
As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Rolex (Official Timekeeper), Panasonic (Official Consumer Electronics), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), 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
Seoul, March 7: American Ryder Cup stars Dustin Johnson and Zach Johnson, plus 2010 Open Champion Louis Oosthuizen, will headline the field for this year’s Ballantine’s Championship, which returns to Blackstone Golf Club in Korea for a third consecutive year.
The trio will join home favourites Y.E. Yang and Kim Kyung-tae for the Championship’s sixth edition, which takes place from April 25-28, 2013.
The line-up of leading international players set for Korea continues to demonstrate that the Ballantine’s Championship has cemented its position as one of Asia’s most successful golf tournaments.
Christian Porta, CEO of Chivas Brothers, said: “We are delighted that the Ballantine’s Championship continues to attract such a wealth of both talent and interest from all over the world, again reinforcing the increasing importance of Korea as a world-class golf destination. We look forward to another exciting edition of this prestigious golf tournament.”
World Number Six Oosthuizen will make his debut in the Ballantine’s Championship, hoping to add the title to his increasingly impressive CV, having captured his sixth European Tour title in last month’s Volvo Golf Champions in his native South Africa.
The 30 year old, who lifted the Claret Jug at St Andrews three years ago, came close to adding a second Major Championship to his list of achievements, when he lost in a play-off to Bubba Watson in the Masters Tournament at the Augusta National last April. He went on to win the Maybank Malaysian Open the following week and will be hoping to claim a second victory on Asian soil when he heads to Blackstone Golf Club, in Incheon, near the Korean capital of Seoul.
“I’m really looking forward to visiting Korea and to playing in the Ballantine’s Championship for the first time,” said Oozthuizen. “I got my first win in Asia last year and it would be nice to challenge for another in April. I’ve heard good things about the tournament and I look forward to experiencing it myself.”
Zach Johnson is also making his debut in the Championship and it will be the first time he has played in a European Tour event outside of the Major Championships and World Golf Championships events.
The three-time US Ryder Cup player won the 2007 Masters Tournament and has nine victories in total on the US PGA Tour, including two titles last year. He was one of the American team’s leading performers in The 2012 Ryder Cup at Medinah Country Club, taking three points from his four matches.
“It’s a great opportunity to be able to play in the Ballantine’s Championship and I’m really looking forward to it. To be able to play in a new country and test myself against some of Europe and Asia’s leading players is very exciting,” he said.
Meanwhile Dustin Johnson, one of the biggest hitters in world golf, returns to Blackstone Golf Club after finishing fourth on his debut in 2011. The 28 year old was forced to miss last year’s Ballantine’s Championship because of a back injury suffered the month before the tournament, but returned to action to win the FedEx St Jude Classic and claimed his seventh US PGA Tour Title in the season opening Hyundai Tournament of Champions.
“I was disappointed to have to miss last year’s Ballantine’s Championship because of my back injury,” he said. “I really enjoyed my first visit a couple of years ago and I’m looking forward to returning.”
After making his Ryder Cup debut in 2010, Johnson was a Captain’s pick for the US Team in 2012, contributing a maximum return of three points from his three matches, and was one of only three Americans to win in the singles, alongside his namesake Zach and Jason Dufner. He feels the 7,275 yard, par 72 course suits his powerful game, after carding four consecutive sub-par rounds to finish three shots behind winner Lee Westwood two years ago.
“I think I did okay last year, and I ended up finishing pretty well,” said Johnson. “I played well on the Sunday and over the week I had two good days and two mediocre ones. So I enjoyed it, and finishing fourth isn’t too bad.
“It’s a good course for me. It sets up well, so you know if you drive it straight there you’re going to play pretty well. Hopefully I can better my fourth place. I liked Korea, and found the people really friendly, so I’m looking forward to going back.”
Leading the home hopes will be Yang and Kim, with both players striving to become the first Korean to win the Ballantine’s Championship.
Yang became the first Asian player to win a Major when he held off Tiger Woods to win the 2009 US PGA Championship. He finished tied 15th last year and will be hoping to improve again this time round, as he searches for a third European Tour title.
“The Ballantine’s Championship is always an important event for the Korean players and it is one I always look forward to,” he said. “Ballantine’s always puts on a great Championship for us and really look after us, so hopefully I can do well in return.”
Kim is a former Korean Amateur Champion and won the 2007 Maekyung Open in his second start on the Asian Tour. He finished in a share of 54th position in last year’s Ballantine’s Championship, which was won by Austrian Bernd Wiesberger.
Wiesberger finished five strokes clear of Scotland’s Richie Ramsay to claim his maiden European Tour title. He joined the roll of honour which previously included inaugural winner Graeme McDowell (2008), Thongchai Jaidee (2009), Marcus Fraser (2010) and Lee Westwood (2011).
The Ballantine’s Championship was established in 2008 and builds on Ballantine’s long-standing association with golf. In addition to the Championship, Ballantine’s sponsors several top-flight players and events, as well as invests in grass-roots activity such as the Golf Fund in China and the Road to the Ballantine’s Championship in Korea.
Ends.
About Ballantine’s Ballantine’s is the No 2 ultra-premium Scotch whisky in Asia, No 1 Scotch whisky in Europe and the range sells over 70 million bottles a year worldwide. Ballantine’s has won more than 129 trophies and medals at international competitions in the past 10 years for quality, as a result of its unique richness of character and perfect balance. The range, from Ballantine’s Finest to the exclusive 40 Year Old, is the most extensive in the world of Scotch and is maintained by the latest in a tradition of Master Blenders that dates back to 1827. • Ballantine’s has been title sponsor of the Ballantine’s Championship since 2008 • Ballantine’s is an official sponsor of the BMW Masters, The Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open & The World Cup of Golf • The first Ballantine’s sponsored golf tournament was played in 1960 at Wentworth Golf Club, England
About Chivas Brothers Chivas Brothers is the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard – the world’s co-leader in wine and spirits. Chivas Brothers is the global leader in luxury Scotch whisky and premium gin. Its portfolio includes Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s, Beefeater Gin, The Glenlivet, Royal Salute, Aberlour, Plymouth gin, Longmorn, Scapa, 100 Pipers, Clan Campbell, Something Special and Passport Scotch.
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), 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
Sentosa, Singapore, January 22: Talented Thai duo Jazz Janewattananond and Danthai Boonma turned their dreams of playing at The Open into a reality after putting on solid displays at the SMBC Singapore Open on Sunday.
Jazz and Danthai, aged 22 and 21 respectively, battled tooth-and-nail to finish tied fourth at the SMBC Singapore Open and was rewarded with coveted spots at The 147th Open which will be held at Carnoustie from July 19 to 22.
It has been Jazz’s life-long dream to tee up in the world’s oldest Major championship after watching his idol Tiger Woods in action at The Open in Carnoustie in 2007. 11 years later, he gave himself an opportunity to possibly play alongside his golfing idol at the same venue.
“My father brought me to watch Tiger Woods at Carnoustie when I was around 10 years old so earning my Major debut at the Carnoustie this year makes me feel really special. I have also played in the Junior Open Championship held at the Lundin Links before. It has been a long journey since,” said Jazz.
“I wasn’t expecting to qualify for The Open, but I am glad that I am in. I am very excited about teeing it up at Carnoustie, but also very nervous about playing in it even though it is still a few months away. It is a dream come true to be playing The Open. I can’t wait to be there.”
The 2017 season was a mixed year for Jazz as he started the year without an Asian Tour card. But he turned his career around with a victory at the Bashundhara Bangladesh Open in February and his career has been on the upswing since.
He made his debut on the PGA Tour last May and also earned his European Tour card for the 2017/2018 season through the Qualifying School.
“Playing in a Major tournament is every professional golfer’s dream. The Asian Tour is where I started my career. It’s a great platform that has helped me build my career. I am really grateful for all the opportunities that it has offered, especially to young players like me,” said the Thai.

Danthai, who celebrates his 22nd birthday on Tuesday, enjoyed another fine run in Singapore as he also won his first Asian Tour title in the country three years ago.
“I am very happy and proud to qualify for The Open, which is my first Major championship. I am looking forward to the challenge and experience of playing Carnoustie. It’s an early birthday present for myself,” smiled Danthai, who finished 34th on the 2017 Order of Merit.
Sean Crocker of the United States claimed the third ticket on offer to The Open after finishing seven shots back of winner Sergio Garcia in tied-sixth position at the Sentosa Golf Club. Lucas Herbert of Australia pipped Miguel Tabuena of the Philippines and Berry Henson of the United States to the fourth and final ticket on offer through his higher world ranking.
The trio ended the week in tied-eight position with Gavin Green of Malaysia, who has already qualified for The Open after winning the Asian Tour Order of Merit last season.
Jazz and Danthai share second place on the Order of Merit after taking home US$45,500. South African Shaun Norris leads the Merit ranking on US$86,500, thanks to his joint runner-up finish at the SMBC Singapore Open. Norris has also earned his ticket to The Open after finishing tied third at the Joburg Open last year.
The Tour will head to Myanmar for the Leopalace21 Myanmar Open this week. The US$750,000 event, co-sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the JGTO, is slated to take place at the Pun Hlaing Golf Club from January 25 to 28.
Asian Tour Order of Merit – Top-20
Pos Player Order of Merit (US$)
1. Shaun NORRIS (RSA) 86,500
2. Danthai BOONMA (THA) 45,500
2. Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA) 45,500
4. Gavin GREEN (MAS) 20,612.5
4. Miguel TABUENA (PHI) 20,612.5
4. Berry HENSON (USA) 20,612.5
7. Danny MASRIN (INA) 15,283.33
7. Poom SAKSANSIN (THA) 15,283.33
9. LIANG Wenchong (CHN) 12,950
9. CHOO Tze Huang (SIN) 12,950
9. Chapchai NIRAT (THA) 12,950
12. Panuphol PITTAYARAT (THA) 11,350
13. Ben LEONG (MAS) 10,450
13. Shiv KAPUR (IND) 10,450
13. Shunya TAKEYASU (JPN) 10,450
16. Jyoti RANDHAWA (IND) 8,950
16. Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND) 8,950
16. Tirawat KAEWSIRIBANDIT (THA) 8,950
19. Casey O’TOOLE (USA) 7,516.67
19. Giwhan KIM (KOR) 7,516.67
About Asian Tour
As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Rolex (Official Timekeeper), Panasonic (Official Consumer Electronics), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), 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
Sentosa, Singapore, January 21: Sergio Garcia of Spain put on a masterful display of golf as he carded a three-under-par 68 to romp to a dominant five-shot victory at the US$1 million SMBC Singapore Open on Sunday.
The 2017 Masters Tournament champion built his one-shot lead at the start of round four into a five-shot advantage after nine holes on Sentosa Golf Club’s Serapong course.
Garcia’s day got off to a great start as he birdied the first hole. He went on to score two more in quick succession before the turn, on holes seven and eight. The Spaniard switched to cruise control for the remainder of the round, carding nine consecutive pars to close with a total of 14-under-par 270.
A final-round 71 earned Satoshi Kodaira of Japan a share of second place. The six-time Japan Golf Tour winner played a roller-coaster round, highlighted by the fact that he only had eight pars out of the 18 holes.
Shaun Norris of South Africa had a round of two halves. He dropped two shots in his front nine, but he rallied and made three birdies on the back nine to card a 70 as well as to grab a share of second place.

Jazz Janewattananond of Thailand gave himself an outside chance of winning the tournament after carding 68 and 66 in rounds two and three respectively. The 22-year-old could not sustain his mid-tournament form and closed with a 71. He finished tied-fourth and earned a spot at this year’s Open Championship.
The SMBC Singapore Open is part of The Open Qualifying Series. Four players who finish inside the top-12 and ties, who are not already exempt, will earn places in the field at Carnoustie from July 19 to 22, 2018.
Compatriot Danthai Boonma also finished tied-fourth and he will join Jazz in Carnoustie after carding a 73. The 21-year-old sizzled in round three with a 65 to lead the tournament at the end of Saturday before play was suspended due to bad weather. However, he could not bring his momentum to round four.
Sean Crocker of the United States and Cameron Davis of Australia carded 69 and 70 respectively to finish in tied-sixth. With Davis already exempt, Crocker will take up the third Open Championship spot.
The final spot to The Open went to Lucas Herbert of Australia, who finished tied-eighth with Malaysia’s Gavin Green, Philippines’ Miguel Tabuena and United States’ Berry Henson.
Herbert got the nod because of his higher position on the Official World Golf Ranking. 2017 Asian Tour Order of Merit champion Green is already exempt.
Did you know:
Player Interviews:
Sergio Garcia (Esp) – Final Round 68 (-3), Total 270 (-14)
It may have looked easy, but it wasn’t easy. You still have to hit a lot of good shots out there.
Obviously, I have to thank my whole team, my family, my wife Angela and my sponsors. They gave me a lot of support and it’s nice to start the year like this. I’m really pleased with everything right now. I still feel like I can get better and I can get even more comfortable. It’s still nice to play like how I did.
It’s always great to start with a win, to do it here at this golf course against a good field in Asia on conditions that weren’t easy. Hopefully I can ride on this momentum.
I’m extremely happy with how the week went. It was a tough day and a tough week, with the stopping and going. Fortunately, the weather held on, we were able to play and the people were able to enjoy it. Still, it was hard to play 27 holes under this heat and I can’t wait to get a cold shower.
I practiced a few weeks before coming here. I feel that I’m getting used to my new equipment. I came with some good confidence and wishing that I will play well. I was able to control my emotions quite well out there. I hit the ball solid the whole week and didn’t miss many shots.
When you are able to have a beautiful wife and a daughter coming your way, you can only be happy. They are very important.
Satoshi Kodaira (Jpn) – Final Round 71 (even-par), Total 275 (-9)
During the front nine, I really played well, but I missed two holes on the back nine. Maybe, it was because it was too hot then.
It was a nice week. I played with tension, played with lots of thinking, and played with top players on a top-quality golf course. I could not reach Sergio. I was thinking, 12 or 13 under for the win, but he went beyond that. But I am happy with the final result. My shots are coming good as well. If I play like this, I can compete.
The drive on the 18th gave me lots of confidence. Anyway, it’s nice to open the new season with a solid performance.
Jazz Janewattananond (Tha) – Final Round 71 (even-par), Total 276 (-8)
It was a great venue to start the year. I really enjoyed my experience here in Singapore.
As for the qualification to The Open, being able to play at a major tournament will be a dream come true! The Open will be my first one and it’s great because there are so many big names playing there. I played in the Junior Open Championship before, when it was held at London Links. It has been a long journey since.
Everyone had a similar journey. We played junior golf, some went to college and some like me, turned professional. But we all share the same goal, that is to play in the majors and on the biggest stage in golf. The Asian Tour is a good start to do all that, as it gives opportunities to young guys like me and I’m grateful for that.
Danthai Boonma (Tha) – Final Round 73 (+2), Total 276 (-8)
I struggled with the putter in the front nine of fourth round and made three-putts on a couple of holes. At hole three, I hit the ball into water and it cost me a double bogey, so it’s not a good start for the final round.
In the back nine I played better as I chipped in for birdie at the 14th to get my momentum back. I also scored another birdie at 16th. But it is disappointing to finish with a bogey after three-putting.
I am glad and honored to earn the place for The 147th Open at Carnoustie by finishing tied-third at the SMBC Singapore Open. It is an early birthday present for me.
Scores after round 4 of the SMBC Singapore Open being played at the par 71, 7398 Yards Sentosa GC course (am – denotes amateur):
270 – Sergio GARCIA (ESP) 66-70-66-68.
275 – Satoshi KODAIRA (JPN) 66-72-66-71, Shaun NORRIS (RSA) 69-67-69-70.
276 – Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA) 71-68-66-71, Danthai BOONMA (THA) 70-68-65-73.
277 – Sean CROCKER (USA) 71-70-67-69, Cameron DAVIS (AUS) 68-70-69-70.
278 – Miguel TABUENA (PHI) 71-69-68-70, Gavin GREEN (MAS) 71-67-69-71, Berry HENSON (USA) 70-72-71-65, Lucas HERBERT (AUS) 68-70-69-71.
279 – Poom SAKSANSIN (THA) 70-69-69-71, Yuki INAMORI (JPN) 70-70-67-72, ANDY ZHANG (am, CHN) 72-66-71-70, Danny MASRIN (INA) 71-66-67-75.
280 – LIANG Wenchong (CHN) 69-70-72-69, CHOO Tze Huang (SIN) 70-69-71-70, Gregory FOO (am, SIN) 69-69-69-73, Ryo ISHIKAWA (JPN) 69-66-74-71, Chapchai NIRAT (THA) 71-64-68-77.
281 – Panuphol PITTAYARAT (THA) 71-70-70-70, Pat PEREZ (USA) 70-72-71-68.
282 – Shunya TAKEYASU (JPN) 69-71-71-71, Ben LEONG (MAS) 70-68-73-71, Hiroshi IWATA (JPN) 69-69-74-70, Shiv KAPUR (IND) 70-67-71-74.
283 – Yoshinori FUJIMOTO (JPN) 68-72-71-72, Jyoti RANDHAWA (IND) 68-70-72-73, Ryuko TOKIMATSU (JPN) 70-71-68-74, Koumei ODA (JPN) 68-70-71-74, Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND) 66-72-75-70, Tirawat KAEWSIRIBANDIT (THA) 66-70-72-75.
Ends.
About Asian Tour
As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Rolex (Official Timekeeper), Panasonic (Official Consumer Electronics), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), 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
New Delhi, March 1: In-form Thai star Chawalit Plaphol will lead a cosmopolitan cast of Asian Tour champions when the region’s premier Tour heads to the US$300,000 SAIL-SBI Open presented by ”Incredible India” Ministry of Tourism next week.
Sweet-swinging Chawalit claimed his career fourth title at the Zaykabar Myanmar Open last Sunday to emerge as one of the early favourites for the SAIL-SBI Open, which celebrates its sixth edition this year.
Over 25 other Tour champions have signed up for the second leg the 2013 Schedule, which marks the Asian Tour’s milestone 10thseason since it was launched as a players’ organisation in 2004.
Other top names who will head to the venerable Delhi Golf Club from March 6-9 include American Berry Henson, Sweden’s Rikard Karlberg, who has won twice previously in India including the 2010 edition, Australian Darren Beck and big-hitting Scott Hend, Singapore’s Mardan Mamat and Thailand’s Chapchai Nirat, who shot a world-record of 32-under-par 256 at the event in 2009.
Sri Lanka’s Mithun Perera, who finished second in Myanmar, will be eager to maintain his flying start to his first full season on the Asian Tour while French rookie Lionel Webber, Singapore’s Quincy Quek and India’s Rahil Gangjee will be hoping to build on last week’s top-10 performances in Yangon.
All eyes will be on Chawalit following his superb victory over Perera where he needed two closing birdies to win the Myanmar title by one shot. The 38-year-old Thai believes the early season victory will pave the way for a great year ahead.
“I’m happy but a first win in two years is not enough! I want to win more Asian Tour titles. This win gives me more confidence to play on the Asian Tour,” said Chawalit.
The tenacious Perera, whose father Nandasena was a prominent name on the Asian golf scene during the 1980s and 1990s, underlined his growing potential by challenging Chawalit for the title by closing with a superb 65.
While disappointed he did not take home the winner’s trophy, Perera reckons his time will soon come.
“All you need is one good week to turn your life around. I feel my time is coming soon. I try my best in every tournament and I think the win is not far away,” said Mithun.
“I’m sure my father and my country are proud of me. Last week, I flew the Sri Lankan flag high. There’s no disappointment for me,” added the 26-year-old.
India’s S.S.P. Chowrasia, Shiv Kapur, Gaganjeet Bhullar and title holder Anirban Lahiri will be amongst the top stars expected to challenge for the SAIL-SBI Open at Delhi Golf Club.
Former Asian number one Jyoti Randhawa, who has triumphed on multiple occasions at the Delhi Golf Club, will also be expected to launch a title charge next week along with Digvijay Singh, holder of the Panasonic Open India title.
The SAIL-SBI Open is one of four Asian Tour events which will feature prominently in India. It will be followed by the Avantha Masters and Panasonic Open India in April. The Hero Indian Open is slated towards the second half of the year.
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), 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
Sentosa, Singapore, January 20: Thai players Danthai Boonma and Chapchai Nirat currently lead the weather-disrupted SMBC Singapore.
Only six players completed round three, which was suspended due to bad weather.
Danthai finished 15 holes before play was suspended at 6.20pm local time. He fired six birdies against a lone bogey to bring his current total to nine-under-par.
Chapchai, who started round three with a seven-under-par 135 total, brought his score down even further after totaling two-under-par through nine holes.
Seven players are currently tied-third at seven-under par. The group includes Thailand’s Jazz Janewattananond and South Africa’s Shaun Norris as well as Ryo Ishikawa.
Jazz was enjoying a bogey-free round before the sirens sounded. He fired four birdies through 17 holes.
Norris made a double bogey on the par-five fourth, but that was offset with three consecutive birdies on holes sixth, seventh and eighth.
Japan’s “Bashful Prince” got off to a great start to his third round with two consecutive birdies on his opening two holes. He bounced back with another birdie after a double bogey on the third. He dropped a shot at the seventh for a total of seven-under-par through nine holes.
62 players will resume round three on Sunday, 7.40am Singapore time.
Did you know:
Player Interviews:
Danthai Boonma (Tha) – nine-under-par through 15 holes
I played very well today, especially my putting. I’m just going to rest tonight to prepare for the long day. I must be focused and stick to my plan. I’ll just think about my swing, smile and have fun.
Chapchai Nirat (Tha) – nine-under-par through nine holes
I’m still adopting the same approach coming into round three. That is, to use the tournament to experiment and adapt to my swing. I won’t be overthinking about the tournament, just going to enjoy the experience here.
Jazz Janewattananond (Tha) – seven-under-par through 17 holes
I quite satisfied with my round so far and I would say that almost everything went well. My driver’s pretty good. My approach shot is good, as I hit it close a lot. Playing with Poom (Saksansin) was quite inspiring as he was making very good putts today. I’m not distracted by the rain. I like it actually, as I get to rest more.
Shaun Norris (Rsa) – seven-under-par through 10 holes
I hit the ball nicely. But for the fourth hole where I made a double after I made a bad decision on the second shot. But other than that, I’m quite happy with my game. It’s a little distracting with the weather disruptions but at least, for everybody, it’s the same. We just have to accept it and move on.
Scores after round 3 of the SMBC Singapore Open being played at the par 71, 7398 Yards Sentosa GC course (am – denotes amateur):
211 – Shunya TAKEYASU (JPN) 69-71-71, Yoshinori FUJIMOTO (JPN) 68-72-71.
213 – Jesse YAP (am, SIN) 68-72-73.
214 – Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA) 70-70-74, Arjun ATWAL (IND) 73-67-74.
217 – Seungtaek LEE (KOR) 74-65-78.
Ends.
About Asian Tour
As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Rolex (Official Timekeeper), Panasonic (Official Consumer Electronics), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), 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
Chonburi, Thailand, February 28: Siddikur is on track of making history when he shared the opening round lead with Japanese amateur Hideki Matsuyama on six-under-par 66 at the Open Championship International Final Qualifying – Asia on Thursday.
The Bangladeshi got off to a hot start where he was five-under after six holes to maintain his bid to become the first player to represent his country in the Open Championship.
China’s Hu Mu, Australian Scott Barr and Singaporeans Quincy Quek and Lam Zhiqun were a further shot back in the two-day qualifier where the top-four players qualify for the year’s third Major at Muirfield in July.
Siddikur, who is the first Bangladeshi to play and win on the Asian Tour, was in a similar position in the 2011 IFQ-Asia but he was disqualified on the last day when he failed to write a score for the last hole. He insists he will not repeat the same mistake again.
“There are no excuses for me (two years ago). I just didn’t play well after shooting a 66 on the first day. I was so excited but unfortunately I couldn’t keep up. My score would have been three-over if I wasn’t disqualified,” said Siddikur.
With a hot putter in tow, Siddikur traded seven birdies and one bogey to lead the way with the talented Matsuyama, who is a two-time Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship winner and the first Japanese amateur to play in the 2011 Masters Tournament.
“I’m very confident and my game is good. If I can play my game, I’m quite confident I’ll be able to qualify for the Open Championship,” said Siddikur.
Matsuyama hopes to make amends for last year’s heartbreak when he dropped six shots in the last three holes to miss the play-off for the fourth and final ticket to the Open Championship by two shots.
“I’ve forgotten about that and have already moved on. I’m looking forward to the last day and if I can keep playing like how I did, then I’ll be able to earn a place in the Open Championship,” said Matsuyama.
Singapore’s Quek, who is aiming to become the third Singaporean after Mardan Mamat and Lam Chih Bing to play in the Open Championship, was in the lead for 17 holes but hit his tee shot into the water on nine for a double bogey.
“I’m happy to be on five-under with a double bogey! In two-day events, you have to make as many birdies as you can. I guess my focus tomorrow is to enjoy the round and put in a low number,” said the 26-year-old.
Australian Barr mixed his round with eight birdies and one eagle against a double bogey and three bogeys as he plots a return to the Open Championship where he made his debut at the Royal Troon Golf Club in 2004.
“I started to hit the ball pretty well at the start and putted pretty good. I just had a couple of soft mistakes. This is a golf course where you can get in big trouble without doing many mistakes. Overall I’m happy but I hope to hold it together,” said Barr.
Scores after round 1 of the IFQ Asia 2013 being played at the par 72, 7419 Yards Amata Spring CC course (a- denotes amateur):
66 – SIDDIKUR (BAN), Hideki MATSUYAMA (am, JPN).
67 – HU Mu (CHN), Quincy QUEK (SIN), LAM Zhiqun (SIN), Scott BARR (AUS).
68 – Prayad MARKSAENG (THA), Anthony KANG (USA), Berry HENSON (USA), KIM Hyung-sung (KOR), PAN Cheng-tsung (am, TPE), WU Ashun (CHN), Rory HIE (INA), Kiradech APHIBARNRAT (THA).
69 – Kalle SAMOOJA (FIN), Arnond VONGVANIJ (THA), Scott HEND (AUS), Hiroshi IWATA (JPN), Yuta IKEDA (JPN).
70 – Stephen LEWTON (ENG), Nils FLOREN (SWE), Kwanchai TANNIN (THA), Prom MEESAWAT (THA), James BYRNE (SCO), Jaakko MAKITALO (FIN).
71 – Darren BECK (AUS), PARK Ju-hyuk (KOR), JOO Heung-chol (KOR), Gunn CHAROENKUL (THA), LAM Chih Bing (SIN), Niall TURNER (IRL), Daisuke MARUYAMA (JPN), Panuphol PITTAYARAT (THA), Tomohiro KONDO (JPN), Javi COLOMO (ESP).
72 – Kodai ICHIHARA (JPN), Miguel TABUENA (PHI), BAEK Seuk-hyun (KOR), Jonathan MOORE (USA), Chawalit PLAPHOL (THA), Ben FOX (USA), Grant JACKSON (ENG), Yosuke ASAJI (JPN).
Further information:
The R&A – Communications
+44 (0) 1334 460000
[email protected]
Doyle Decosta, Media Officer, the Asian Tour
+012 699 1976
[email protected]
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), 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
Yangon, January 26: Thailand’s Rattanon Wannasrichan remained in the driver’s seat together with American Paul Peterson as they stayed ahead of the chasing pack after the second round of the Leopalace21 Myanmar Open on Friday. Peterson hauled himself back into contention with a five-under-par 66 while Rattanon’s excellent short game ensured he would share the […]
Yangon, January 26: Thailand’s Rattanon Wannasrichan remained in the driver’s seat together with American Paul Peterson as they stayed ahead of the chasing pack after the second round of the Leopalace21 Myanmar Open on Friday.
Peterson hauled himself back into contention with a five-under-par 66 while Rattanon’s excellent short game ensured he would share the day’s honour when he signed for a 69.
Peterson, who lost his playing status in Europe, had an encouraging run with five top-10 finishes on the Asian Tour in the last quarter of 2017.
Although he missed the cut in the season-opener in Singapore last week, the left-handed American believes he has the game to contend for the Leopalace21 Myanmar Open title after compiling a two-day total of eight-under-par 134.
Rattanon was left to rue several costly mistakes because of his bad tee shots but had his putter to thank for keeping him in the lead at the Pun Hlaing Golf Club.
Micah Lauren Shin of the United States continued his good form by returning with a 66 despite hitting four balls into the water hazards. The 2017 Asian Tour Rookie of the Year shared third place together with Korea’s Junwon Park and Japan’s Masahiro Kawamura at the US$750,000 event that is sanctioned by the Asian Tour and Japan Golf Tour Organisation (JGTO).
Star attraction Ryo Ishikawa of Japan missed the weekend cut which was set at even-par
Did you know?
· Rattanon Wannasrichan enjoyed a wire-to-wire victory when he lifted his maiden Asian Tour title on home soil last year. He continues to hold the lead after two days this week.
· Rattanon only managed to hit 11 greens in regulation while making a total of 27 putts in his second round.
· Paul Peterson came through the Asian Tour Qualifying School in 2014 and claimed his first title on the European Tour at the 2016 D+D REAL Czech Masters.
· Peterson has yet to win on the Asian Tour but came close towards the end of 2017 with two tied-second finishes in India and Hong Kong.
· The American ended the 2017 season in 13th place on the Asian Tour Order of Merit.
· The par-four second hole at the Pun Hlaing Golf Club continues to be Micah Lauren Shin’s bogey hole as he continues to drop shot on that hole over the last two days.
· Shin has hit 13 greens in regulation on each day in his first two rounds.
Players’ Quotes
Rattanon Wannasrichan (Tha) Second round Two-under-par 69, Total 134 (-8)
I didn’t hit the ball as well as yesterday. I missed several fairways and only managed to return with a two-under-par. My putting saved me today as I managed to sink several long putts. The round was okay except for two bad holes on 16 and 17. I try to play my best and play shot by shot this weekend. I have to stay patient as that will be the key for me this week.
Paul Peterson (Usa) Second round Five-under-par 66, Total 134 (-8)
I got off to a fine start. I hit some quality wedge shots in the beginning and gave myself several scoring opportunities. I felt like I was in control of my golf balls and I’m really happy. I’ve been trying to rehydrate and get my energy back after suffering from a heat stroke in Singapore last week. It was a big adjustment for me having to go from Virginia in the US to the tropical heat here. I finished strongly last year and I feel I still have much of that momentum. It was a growth year for me having lost my card in Europe. It made me appreciate every single start I had. I gained a lot of perspective last year. I really to do my best to get back out there.
Micah Lauren Shin (Usa) Second round Five-under-par 66, Total 135 (-7)
I was actually hitting the ball really well but it was just those missed shots that went into the water. Those were all my tee shots. But I managed to recover in those three other holes to save par. I could have made birdie on two of them as they were on the par-five. After I missed the cut in Singapore, I just went to the range to practice. I was not hitting my driver well. I changed my driver this week and it’s helping me to hit the ball straighter. Every aspect of your game has to be sharp on this golf course. Tee shots are really important and the greens are really firm. So you got to place it properly and hit the right shots. If you miss them, you got to get up and down.
Masahiro Kawamura (Jpn) Second round, Three-under-par 68, Total 135 (-7)
I feel I could have putted better as I missed several short putts these last two days. But it’s nice to be among the leaders as we head into the weekend rounds here in Myanmar. I need to work on my short game and if I can do that, maybe something special will happen on Sunday.
Leading Scores after round 2 of the LeoPalace21 Myanmar Open 2018 being played at the par 71, 7103 Yards Pun Hliang GC course (am – denotes amateur):
134 – Paul PETERSON (USA) 68-66, Rattanon WANNASRICHAN (THA) 65-69.
135 – Micah Lauren SHIN (USA) 69-66, Masahiro KAWAMURA (JPN) 67-68, Junwon PARK (KOR) 68-67.
136 – Yusaku MIYAZATO (JPN) 71-65.
137 – Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA) 70-67, Tomoyo IKEMURA (JPN) 71-66, Toru NAKAJIMA (JPN) 69-68, Casey O’TOOLE (USA) 68-69, Lionel WEBER (FRA) 68-69, Shaun NORRIS (RSA) 67-70.
138 – Satoshi KODAIRA (JPN) 69-69, Seungsu HAN (USA) 67-71, Prom MEESAWAT (THA) 69-69, Miguel TABUENA (PHI) 69-69, Arjun ATWAL (IND) 70-68, Shugo IMAHIRA (JPN) 70-68, David OH (USA) 67-71, Rikuya HOSHINO (JPN) 68-70, Toshinori MUTO (JPN) 71-67.
139 – LU Wei-chih (TPE) 70-69, Pavit TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 68-71, Koki FURUTA (JPN) 74-65, Tatsuya KODAI (JPN) 69-70, Sihwan KIM (USA) 69-70, Mikumu HORIKAWA (JPN) 68-71, Hiroshi IWATA (JPN) 71-68, Masashi HIDAKA (JPN) 70-69, Berry HENSON (USA) 68-71, Poom SAKSANSIN (THA) 68-71, Daijiro IZUMIDA (JPN) 72-67.
140 – Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA) 72-68, Ajeetesh SANDHU (IND) 70-70, LIU Yan-wei (CHN) 69-71, Hyungsung KIM (KOR) 69-71.
141 – Scott VINCENT (ZIM) 68-73, Shiv KAPUR (IND) 72-69, Yikeun CHANG (KOR) 70-71, Todd SINNOTT (AUS) 71-70, Daisuke MARUYAMA (JPN) 73-68, Richard T. LEE (CAN) 69-72, Keith HORNE (RSA) 68-73, Arnond VONGVANIJ (THA) 71-70, Tadahiro TAKAYAMA (JPN) 73-68, Ben LEONG (MAS) 71-70, Kieran PRATT (AUS) 68-73, Yuta IKEDA (JPN) 69-72, Kitaek KWON (KOR) 72-69, Narutoshi YAMAOKA (JPN) 70-71.
142 – Chapchai NIRAT (THA) 71-71, Ye Htet AUNG (MYN) 71-71, LIANG Wen-chong (CHN) 71-71, Kunihiro KAMII (JPN) 72-70, Pannakorn UTHAIPAS (THA) 73-69, Eric SUGIMOTO (JPN) 73-69, Naing Naing LIN (MYN) 67-75, Natipong SRITHONG (THA) 69-73, Zaw Zaw LATT (MYN) 71-71, Younghan SONG (KOR) 71-71, Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND) 70-72, Rashid KHAN (IND) 71-71, Ryuji MASAOKA (JPN) 70-72, Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA) 71-71, Jyoti RANDHAWA (IND) 70-72, Kyungnam KANG (KOR) 71-71.
Ends.
About Leopalace21
Founded in 1973, Leopalace21 is a real estate company which constructs and rents apartments, currently managing 560 thousand rooms in Japan. The company also owns and operates a 36-hole golf course and resort facility in Guam, as well as 15 overseas offices which introduce residences and offices to Japanese companies advancing into the ASEAN region.
Leopalace21 Corporation: http://eg.leopalace21.com/
Leopalace Resort Guam: http://www.guam.ne.jp/
About Asian Tour
As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Rolex (Official Timekeeper), Panasonic (Official Consumer Electronics), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), 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
Kuala Lumpur, March 22: Gavin Green became the first Malaysian amateur in 10 years to qualify for the weekend rounds at the US$2.75 million Maybank Malaysian Open after posting an impressive four-under-par 68 in the second round on Friday.The 19-year-old Malaysian Amateur champion, who is studying at the University of New Mexico, carded five birdies […]
Kuala Lumpur, March 22: Gavin Green became the first Malaysian amateur in 10 years to qualify for the weekend rounds at the US$2.75 million Maybank Malaysian Open after posting an impressive four-under-par 68 in the second round on Friday.
The 19-year-old Malaysian Amateur champion, who is studying at the University of New Mexico, carded five birdies against a lone bogey at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club for a two-day total of three-under-par 141.
Playing alongside 2011 Maybank Malaysian Open champion Matteo Manaserro and current Asian Tour Order of Merit leader Gaganjeet Bhullar, the big-hitting Green reinforced his growing reputation as a player to watch with an accomplished performance.
“I played well in the second round. First round was a bit shaky (where he shot a 73). I got more comfortable with the golf course and didn’t do much mistakes compared to the first round. I just got to play my game again. If I can do that, I know I will be okay,” said Green.
The last Malaysian amateur to feature in all four rounds at the Malaysian Open was S. Siva Chandhran in 2003 where he finished tied 72nd.
Green is certainly well placed to better Siva’s finish. He said he enjoyed the experience of playing alongside Manassero, the youngest champion at the Maybank Malaysian Open and also three-time winner in Europe, and Bhullar, who is a four-time Asian Tour champion.
“It was nice playing with Matteo and Gaganjeet. Their irons are really good, always straight at the pin,” said Green.
“I really want to break the top-20, that’s my goal right now.”
Green has been touted as next great Malaysian hope following some impressive performances. At the Asian Tour’s season-ending Iskandar Johor Open in Malaysia last December, he finished tied 18th and impressed playing partner Ernie Els of South Africa with his game and poise.
Following another day of weather disruption, several other Malaysians will return on Saturday at 7.45am to complete their second rounds.
S. Murthy, who opened his campaign with a 67, was three over through eight holes as he fell back to two-under for the tournament. Danny Chia, who started with a 71 on Thursday, was level par through six holes.
The projected halfway cut is even par 144, with Murthy and Chia fighting to stay in the tournament alongside teenager Green.
About Maybank
The Maybank Group is Malaysia’s regional financial services leader with an international network of over 2,200 offices in 20 countries namely Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines, Brunei Darussalam, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Papua New Guinea, Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China, Myanmar, Laos, Bahrain, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, India, Saudi Arabia, Great Britain and the United States of America.
The Group offers an extensive range of products and services, which includes commercial banking, investment banking, Islamic banking, stock broking, insurance and takaful and asset management. It has over 46,000 employees serving 22 million customers worldwide.
About the Malaysian Golf Association
Founded in 1929, the Malaysian Golf Association (MGA) as the sole governing body of golf in Malaysia has been entrusted to promote the game while preserving its traditions and integrity.
It’s a non-government organization that runs by volunteers who are passionate about the game with the help of a team of management staff.
The Association’s portfolios have increased over the years ranging from conducting 14 state amateur opens, national amateur open, national amateur close, Malaysian Open to processing handicaps through its National Handicap System to promoting grassroots programs and training of the athletes to represent Malaysia in the international events.
We take our responsibilities seriously in promoting the game in Malaysia while simultaneously upholding the Rules of Golf as prescribed by the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (R&A).
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 Statistics 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 The European Tour
The European Tour is committed to celebrating the game of golf from the origins of the professional game, building a proud history of achievement, sportsmanship and integrity as well as showcasing our diverse global talent and rich landscapes. The European Tour’s innovative approach enables us to embrace the world, combining championships of tradition with new tournaments in the cities and countries of the future.
The European Tour International Schedule, which from 2009 has incorporated The Race to Dubai, is a thriving global brand which, in 2012, will feature a minimum of 46 tournaments spread across all five continents of the world; the European Challenge Tour focuses on the up and coming players of the future; while the European Senior Tour provides a new start for champions celebrating their 50th birthday.
The European Tour’s corporate identity features the iconic silhouette image of six-time Open Champion Harry Vardon who gives his name to The Harry Vardon Trophy, presented to the player who is crowned European Tour Number One and winner of The Race to Dubai at the end of the season.
About Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club
Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club (KLGCC) is a member of Sime Darby Property Bhd and a propriety Club wholly-owned and operated by KLGCC Berhad. The club has won numerous accolades from both local and foreign golfing fraternity, the latest being voted the Malaysia’s Golf Club of the Year in Par Golf Awards 2011, No.1 Golf Course in Malaysia and Best Clubhouse in Asia Pacific by Asian Golf Monthly Awards 2011 and HAPA Golf Course of the Year by the prestigious Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards Regional Series 2011 – 2013. Today, it has become a landmark as the most luxurious golf resort development in Malaysia and KLGCC has in recent years hosted numerous international championships such as the Maybank Malaysian Open and the Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia.
About GlobalOne
GlobalOne is an executive lifestyle sports marketing consultancy. We have in the past created partnerships in golf, motor racing, sailing, tennis, rugby, skiing, athletics, basketball, cycling and skiing. Today, as an event promoter, GlobalOne’s primary focus and area of sports rights ownership is professional golf.
Ends
Yangon, January 25: Thailand’s Rattanon Wannasrichan delivered a short game masterclass by firing a flawless six-under-par 65 to set the early pace at the US$750,000 Leopalace21 Myanmar Open on Thursday. The 22-year-old Thai displayed the form that led him to his maiden victory on home soil last year by cruising through with a sparkling first […]
Yangon, January 25: Thailand’s Rattanon Wannasrichan delivered a short game masterclass by firing a flawless six-under-par 65 to set the early pace at the US$750,000 Leopalace21 Myanmar Open on Thursday.
The 22-year-old Thai displayed the form that led him to his maiden victory on home soil last year by cruising through with a sparkling first round which was highlighted by six birdies at the Pun Hlaing Golf Club.
Myanmar’s Naing Naing Lin showed why he is the country’s top player when he returned with a 67 to trail Rattanon by two shots. He was among the five players bunched in tied-second place which also included 2016 Leopalace21 Myanmar Open champion Shaun Norris of South Africa.
Lin, a father-of-two, believes it is his combination of skills and luck that brought him close to the leaderboard summit while Norris relished another happy return to Myanmar at the US$750,000 event which is sanctioned by the Asian Tour and Japan Golf Tour Organisation (JGTO).
Australia’s Kieran Pratt, who put aside his golf clubs and spent two years working in a construction company in Melbourne, delighted himself with a 68 to take a share of seventh place as he continues to rebuild his professional golf career.
The Australian is now hoping for a strong performance which can be the catalyst for him to return to the heights of 2012 when he won his lone Asian Tour title at the Myanmar Open.
Star attraction Ryo Ishikawa of Japan posted an opening 70 to take a share of 34th place, five shots back of Rattanon.
Did you know?
· Thailand’s Rattanon Wannasrichan earned his maiden breakthrough on the Asian Tour with a wire-to-wire victory at his National Open in May last year.
· Rattanon also represented Thailand during his amateur days and won the team and individual gold medals at the 2011 Southeast Asian Games in Indonesia.
· The Thai hit 16 greens in regulation and made a total of 29 putts today.
· Naing Naing Lin played six tournaments on the domestic tour in Myanmar, winning three of them and finishing inside the top-10 twice to emerge as the country’s Order of Merit champion.
· The 33-year-old turned professional in 2007 and plays mostly in Myanmar.
· Shaun Norris is currently leading the Asian Tour Order of Merit thanks to his tied-second result at the season opening event in Singapore last week.
· Norris followed up his maiden Asian Tour victory in Chinese Taipei in 2015 with his second win at the 2016 Leopalace21 Myanmar Open.
· Kieran Pratt is playing in his first event that offers Official World Ranking points in two years.
· He missed the grade at Qualifying School after finishing tied-57th and spent the last two years working at a construction company in Melbourne.
Players’ Quotes:
Rattanon Wannasrichan (Tha) First round Six-under-par 65
The course conditions are almost similar to last year. The greens are very hard and fast. You got to be really accurate off the tee here. I putted well and that was key. I’ve been practicing a lot off-season and changed the way I hit the ball. My ball flight is now different and I’m able to control the ball better now. I missed the cut by one shot last year and I hope to do better this week. I hope to end the year inside the top-10 on the Asian Tour Order of Merit
Shaun Norris (Rsa) First round Four-under-par 67
I played nicely today. I played solid and I’m very happy with my round. I can’t complain about the weather and course conditions. It was absolutely perfect out there. The greenkeepers have done well. Winning the Myanmar Open in 2016 was a massive stepping stone for me so it’s always nice to come back. I’m very happy with my game at the moment. I’m playing each hole as it is. I’m not expecting too much but I’m very happy with where I’m at the moment.
Naing Naing Lin (Myn) First round Four-under-par 67
I played well but I was also lucky. I’ve been hitting the ball well. I hit 17 greens in regulation and only hit one shot into the bunker on six for a bogey. The Myanmar PGA organised several practice rounds for us before this week’s tournament and I’m happy I took full advantage of those practice sessions.
Kieran Pratt (Aus) First round Three-under-par 68
That win (2012 Myanmar Open victory) seems so long ago. I was working full-time in a building company back in Melbourne but I was playing weekend golf with my mates and shooting some really low scores. I was not really playing well back then and thought I had to do something else for a while. But deep inside, I always enjoy being on the golf course and thought there’s where I should be. My last day with the building company was 21st December last year as I tried to get ready for Qualifying School. Unfortunately I did not make the grade. I’m hoping to return to the game slowly and plot my way back again.
Ryo Ishikawa (Jpn) First round One-under-par 70
I wish I was able to play one or two shot better today. I was two-under after 15 holes and I missed a four-foot putt on 15 and missed another birdie putt on the last. But it’s okay, it’s still an under-par round and there’s still everything to play for. The weather’s very good today. It was little hot and the greens were firmer than yesterday.
Leading scores after round 1 of the LeoPalace21 Myanmar Open 2018 being played at the par 71, 7103 Yards Pun Hliang GC course (am – denotes amateur):
65 – Rattanon WANNASRICHAN (THA).
67 – Naing Naing LIN (MYN), Shaun NORRIS (RSA), David OH (USA), Masahiro KAWAMURA (JPN), Seungsu HAN (USA).
68 – Berry HENSON (USA), Casey O’TOOLE (USA), Kieran PRATT (AUS), Lionel WEBER (FRA), Poom SAKSANSIN (THA), Junwon PARK (KOR), Rikuya HOSHINO (JPN), Scott VINCENT (ZIM), Paul PETERSON (USA), Pavit TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA), Mikumu HORIKAWA (JPN), Keith HORNE (RSA).
69 – Toru NAKAJIMA (JPN), Chikkarangappa S. (IND), Natipong SRITHONG (THA), Kodai ICHIHARA (JPN), LIU Yan-wei (CHN), Yuta IKEDA (JPN), Hyungsung KIM (KOR), Satoshi KODAIRA (JPN), Micah Lauren SHIN (USA), Shunya TAKEYASU (JPN), Prom MEESAWAT (THA), Tatsuya KODAI (JPN), Miguel TABUENA (PHI), Richard T. LEE (CAN), Sihwan KIM (USA).
70 – Zaw MOE (MYN), Bowen XIAO (CHN), Arjun ATWAL (IND), Shugo IMAHIRA (JPN), Narutoshi YAMAOKA (JPN), Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND), Ryuji MASAOKA (JPN), Shohei KARIMATA (JPN), Terry PILKADARIS (AUS), Jyoti RANDHAWA (IND), Ryutaro NAGANO (JPN), LU Wei-chih (TPE), Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA), Ryo ISHIKAWA (JPN), Yikeun CHANG (KOR), Taichi NABETANI (JPN), Ajeetesh SANDHU (IND), Masashi HIDAKA (JPN).
71 – Zaw Zaw LATT (MYN), Ben LEONG (MAS), Younghan SONG (KOR), Masanori KOBAYASHI (JPN), Khalin JOSHI (IND), Rashid KHAN (IND), Katsumasa MIYAMOTO (JPN), Jarin TODD (USA), Jake HIGGINBOTTOM (AUS), Toshinori MUTO (JPN), Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA), Kyungnam KANG (KOR), Chapchai NIRAT (THA), Backjun AN (KOR), Ye Htet AUNG (MYN), Jbe KRUGER (RSA), Konosuke NAKAZATO (JPN), Nicholas FUNG (MAS), Yusaku MIYAZATO (JPN), Johannes VEERMAN (USA), Todd SINNOTT (AUS), Adilson DA SILVA (BRA), LIANG Wen-chong (CHN), Hiroshi IWATA (JPN), Tomoyo IKEMURA (JPN), Arnond VONGVANIJ (THA).
Ends.
About Leopalace21
Founded in 1973, Leopalace21 is a real estate company which constructs and rents apartments, currently managing 560 thousand rooms in Japan. The company also owns and operates a 36-hole golf course and resort facility in Guam, as well as 15 overseas offices which introduce residences and offices to Japanese companies advancing into the ASEAN region.
Leopalace21 Corporation: http://eg.leopalace21.com/
Leopalace Resort Guam: http://www.guam.ne.jp/
About Asian Tour
As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Rolex (Official Timekeeper), Panasonic (Official Consumer Electronics), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), 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
Seoul, March 7: American Ryder Cup stars Dustin Johnson and Zach Johnson, plus 2010 Open Champion Louis Oosthuizen, will headline the field for this year’s Ballantine’s Championship, which returns to Blackstone Golf Club in Korea for a third consecutive year.The trio will join home favourites Y.E. Yang and Kim Kyung-tae for the Championship’s sixth edition, […]
Seoul, March 7: American Ryder Cup stars Dustin Johnson and Zach Johnson, plus 2010 Open Champion Louis Oosthuizen, will headline the field for this year’s Ballantine’s Championship, which returns to Blackstone Golf Club in Korea for a third consecutive year.
The trio will join home favourites Y.E. Yang and Kim Kyung-tae for the Championship’s sixth edition, which takes place from April 25-28, 2013.
The line-up of leading international players set for Korea continues to demonstrate that the Ballantine’s Championship has cemented its position as one of Asia’s most successful golf tournaments.
Christian Porta, CEO of Chivas Brothers, said: “We are delighted that the Ballantine’s Championship continues to attract such a wealth of both talent and interest from all over the world, again reinforcing the increasing importance of Korea as a world-class golf destination. We look forward to another exciting edition of this prestigious golf tournament.”
World Number Six Oosthuizen will make his debut in the Ballantine’s Championship, hoping to add the title to his increasingly impressive CV, having captured his sixth European Tour title in last month’s Volvo Golf Champions in his native South Africa.
The 30 year old, who lifted the Claret Jug at St Andrews three years ago, came close to adding a second Major Championship to his list of achievements, when he lost in a play-off to Bubba Watson in the Masters Tournament at the Augusta National last April. He went on to win the Maybank Malaysian Open the following week and will be hoping to claim a second victory on Asian soil when he heads to Blackstone Golf Club, in Incheon, near the Korean capital of Seoul.
“I’m really looking forward to visiting Korea and to playing in the Ballantine’s Championship for the first time,” said Oozthuizen. “I got my first win in Asia last year and it would be nice to challenge for another in April. I’ve heard good things about the tournament and I look forward to experiencing it myself.”
Zach Johnson is also making his debut in the Championship and it will be the first time he has played in a European Tour event outside of the Major Championships and World Golf Championships events.
The three-time US Ryder Cup player won the 2007 Masters Tournament and has nine victories in total on the US PGA Tour, including two titles last year. He was one of the American team’s leading performers in The 2012 Ryder Cup at Medinah Country Club, taking three points from his four matches.
“It’s a great opportunity to be able to play in the Ballantine’s Championship and I’m really looking forward to it. To be able to play in a new country and test myself against some of Europe and Asia’s leading players is very exciting,” he said.
Meanwhile Dustin Johnson, one of the biggest hitters in world golf, returns to Blackstone Golf Club after finishing fourth on his debut in 2011. The 28 year old was forced to miss last year’s Ballantine’s Championship because of a back injury suffered the month before the tournament, but returned to action to win the FedEx St Jude Classic and claimed his seventh US PGA Tour Title in the season opening Hyundai Tournament of Champions.
“I was disappointed to have to miss last year’s Ballantine’s Championship because of my back injury,” he said. “I really enjoyed my first visit a couple of years ago and I’m looking forward to returning.”
After making his Ryder Cup debut in 2010, Johnson was a Captain’s pick for the US Team in 2012, contributing a maximum return of three points from his three matches, and was one of only three Americans to win in the singles, alongside his namesake Zach and Jason Dufner. He feels the 7,275 yard, par 72 course suits his powerful game, after carding four consecutive sub-par rounds to finish three shots behind winner Lee Westwood two years ago.
“I think I did okay last year, and I ended up finishing pretty well,” said Johnson. “I played well on the Sunday and over the week I had two good days and two mediocre ones. So I enjoyed it, and finishing fourth isn’t too bad.
“It’s a good course for me. It sets up well, so you know if you drive it straight there you’re going to play pretty well. Hopefully I can better my fourth place. I liked Korea, and found the people really friendly, so I’m looking forward to going back.”
Leading the home hopes will be Yang and Kim, with both players striving to become the first Korean to win the Ballantine’s Championship.
Yang became the first Asian player to win a Major when he held off Tiger Woods to win the 2009 US PGA Championship. He finished tied 15th last year and will be hoping to improve again this time round, as he searches for a third European Tour title.
“The Ballantine’s Championship is always an important event for the Korean players and it is one I always look forward to,” he said. “Ballantine’s always puts on a great Championship for us and really look after us, so hopefully I can do well in return.”
Kim is a former Korean Amateur Champion and won the 2007 Maekyung Open in his second start on the Asian Tour. He finished in a share of 54th position in last year’s Ballantine’s Championship, which was won by Austrian Bernd Wiesberger.
Wiesberger finished five strokes clear of Scotland’s Richie Ramsay to claim his maiden European Tour title. He joined the roll of honour which previously included inaugural winner Graeme McDowell (2008), Thongchai Jaidee (2009), Marcus Fraser (2010) and Lee Westwood (2011).
The Ballantine’s Championship was established in 2008 and builds on Ballantine’s long-standing association with golf. In addition to the Championship, Ballantine’s sponsors several top-flight players and events, as well as invests in grass-roots activity such as the Golf Fund in China and the Road to the Ballantine’s Championship in Korea.
Ends.
About Ballantine’s Ballantine’s is the No 2 ultra-premium Scotch whisky in Asia, No 1 Scotch whisky in Europe and the range sells over 70 million bottles a year worldwide. Ballantine’s has won more than 129 trophies and medals at international competitions in the past 10 years for quality, as a result of its unique richness of character and perfect balance. The range, from Ballantine’s Finest to the exclusive 40 Year Old, is the most extensive in the world of Scotch and is maintained by the latest in a tradition of Master Blenders that dates back to 1827. • Ballantine’s has been title sponsor of the Ballantine’s Championship since 2008 • Ballantine’s is an official sponsor of the BMW Masters, The Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open & The World Cup of Golf • The first Ballantine’s sponsored golf tournament was played in 1960 at Wentworth Golf Club, England
About Chivas Brothers Chivas Brothers is the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard – the world’s co-leader in wine and spirits. Chivas Brothers is the global leader in luxury Scotch whisky and premium gin. Its portfolio includes Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s, Beefeater Gin, The Glenlivet, Royal Salute, Aberlour, Plymouth gin, Longmorn, Scapa, 100 Pipers, Clan Campbell, Something Special and Passport Scotch.
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), 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
Sentosa, Singapore, January 22: Talented Thai duo Jazz Janewattananond and Danthai Boonma turned their dreams of playing at The Open into a reality after putting on solid displays at the SMBC Singapore Open on Sunday. Jazz and Danthai, aged 22 and 21 respectively, battled tooth-and-nail to finish tied fourth at the SMBC Singapore Open and […]
Sentosa, Singapore, January 22: Talented Thai duo Jazz Janewattananond and Danthai Boonma turned their dreams of playing at The Open into a reality after putting on solid displays at the SMBC Singapore Open on Sunday.
Jazz and Danthai, aged 22 and 21 respectively, battled tooth-and-nail to finish tied fourth at the SMBC Singapore Open and was rewarded with coveted spots at The 147th Open which will be held at Carnoustie from July 19 to 22.
It has been Jazz’s life-long dream to tee up in the world’s oldest Major championship after watching his idol Tiger Woods in action at The Open in Carnoustie in 2007. 11 years later, he gave himself an opportunity to possibly play alongside his golfing idol at the same venue.
“My father brought me to watch Tiger Woods at Carnoustie when I was around 10 years old so earning my Major debut at the Carnoustie this year makes me feel really special. I have also played in the Junior Open Championship held at the Lundin Links before. It has been a long journey since,” said Jazz.
“I wasn’t expecting to qualify for The Open, but I am glad that I am in. I am very excited about teeing it up at Carnoustie, but also very nervous about playing in it even though it is still a few months away. It is a dream come true to be playing The Open. I can’t wait to be there.”
The 2017 season was a mixed year for Jazz as he started the year without an Asian Tour card. But he turned his career around with a victory at the Bashundhara Bangladesh Open in February and his career has been on the upswing since.
He made his debut on the PGA Tour last May and also earned his European Tour card for the 2017/2018 season through the Qualifying School.
“Playing in a Major tournament is every professional golfer’s dream. The Asian Tour is where I started my career. It’s a great platform that has helped me build my career. I am really grateful for all the opportunities that it has offered, especially to young players like me,” said the Thai.

Danthai, who celebrates his 22nd birthday on Tuesday, enjoyed another fine run in Singapore as he also won his first Asian Tour title in the country three years ago.
“I am very happy and proud to qualify for The Open, which is my first Major championship. I am looking forward to the challenge and experience of playing Carnoustie. It’s an early birthday present for myself,” smiled Danthai, who finished 34th on the 2017 Order of Merit.
Sean Crocker of the United States claimed the third ticket on offer to The Open after finishing seven shots back of winner Sergio Garcia in tied-sixth position at the Sentosa Golf Club. Lucas Herbert of Australia pipped Miguel Tabuena of the Philippines and Berry Henson of the United States to the fourth and final ticket on offer through his higher world ranking.
The trio ended the week in tied-eight position with Gavin Green of Malaysia, who has already qualified for The Open after winning the Asian Tour Order of Merit last season.
Jazz and Danthai share second place on the Order of Merit after taking home US$45,500. South African Shaun Norris leads the Merit ranking on US$86,500, thanks to his joint runner-up finish at the SMBC Singapore Open. Norris has also earned his ticket to The Open after finishing tied third at the Joburg Open last year.
The Tour will head to Myanmar for the Leopalace21 Myanmar Open this week. The US$750,000 event, co-sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the JGTO, is slated to take place at the Pun Hlaing Golf Club from January 25 to 28.
Asian Tour Order of Merit – Top-20
Pos Player Order of Merit (US$)
1. Shaun NORRIS (RSA) 86,500
2. Danthai BOONMA (THA) 45,500
2. Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA) 45,500
4. Gavin GREEN (MAS) 20,612.5
4. Miguel TABUENA (PHI) 20,612.5
4. Berry HENSON (USA) 20,612.5
7. Danny MASRIN (INA) 15,283.33
7. Poom SAKSANSIN (THA) 15,283.33
9. LIANG Wenchong (CHN) 12,950
9. CHOO Tze Huang (SIN) 12,950
9. Chapchai NIRAT (THA) 12,950
12. Panuphol PITTAYARAT (THA) 11,350
13. Ben LEONG (MAS) 10,450
13. Shiv KAPUR (IND) 10,450
13. Shunya TAKEYASU (JPN) 10,450
16. Jyoti RANDHAWA (IND) 8,950
16. Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND) 8,950
16. Tirawat KAEWSIRIBANDIT (THA) 8,950
19. Casey O’TOOLE (USA) 7,516.67
19. Giwhan KIM (KOR) 7,516.67
About Asian Tour
As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Rolex (Official Timekeeper), Panasonic (Official Consumer Electronics), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), 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
March 1: Jeev Milkha Singh of India posted five birdies in his closing seven holes for a five-under-par 67 in the opening round of the Tshwane Open on Thursday. The two-time Asian Tour Order of Merit winner was even par after 11 holes with one birdie and one bogey but burst into life on his homeward […]
Sentosa, Singapore, January 21: Sergio Garcia of Spain put on a masterful display of golf as he carded a three-under-par 68 to romp to a dominant five-shot victory at the US$1 million SMBC Singapore Open on Sunday. The 2017 Masters Tournament champion built his one-shot lead at the start of round four into a five-shot […]
Sentosa, Singapore, January 21: Sergio Garcia of Spain put on a masterful display of golf as he carded a three-under-par 68 to romp to a dominant five-shot victory at the US$1 million SMBC Singapore Open on Sunday.
The 2017 Masters Tournament champion built his one-shot lead at the start of round four into a five-shot advantage after nine holes on Sentosa Golf Club’s Serapong course.
Garcia’s day got off to a great start as he birdied the first hole. He went on to score two more in quick succession before the turn, on holes seven and eight. The Spaniard switched to cruise control for the remainder of the round, carding nine consecutive pars to close with a total of 14-under-par 270.
A final-round 71 earned Satoshi Kodaira of Japan a share of second place. The six-time Japan Golf Tour winner played a roller-coaster round, highlighted by the fact that he only had eight pars out of the 18 holes.
Shaun Norris of South Africa had a round of two halves. He dropped two shots in his front nine, but he rallied and made three birdies on the back nine to card a 70 as well as to grab a share of second place.

Jazz Janewattananond of Thailand gave himself an outside chance of winning the tournament after carding 68 and 66 in rounds two and three respectively. The 22-year-old could not sustain his mid-tournament form and closed with a 71. He finished tied-fourth and earned a spot at this year’s Open Championship.
The SMBC Singapore Open is part of The Open Qualifying Series. Four players who finish inside the top-12 and ties, who are not already exempt, will earn places in the field at Carnoustie from July 19 to 22, 2018.
Compatriot Danthai Boonma also finished tied-fourth and he will join Jazz in Carnoustie after carding a 73. The 21-year-old sizzled in round three with a 65 to lead the tournament at the end of Saturday before play was suspended due to bad weather. However, he could not bring his momentum to round four.
Sean Crocker of the United States and Cameron Davis of Australia carded 69 and 70 respectively to finish in tied-sixth. With Davis already exempt, Crocker will take up the third Open Championship spot.
The final spot to The Open went to Lucas Herbert of Australia, who finished tied-eighth with Malaysia’s Gavin Green, Philippines’ Miguel Tabuena and United States’ Berry Henson.
Herbert got the nod because of his higher position on the Official World Golf Ranking. 2017 Asian Tour Order of Merit champion Green is already exempt.
Did you know:
Player Interviews:
Sergio Garcia (Esp) – Final Round 68 (-3), Total 270 (-14)
It may have looked easy, but it wasn’t easy. You still have to hit a lot of good shots out there.
Obviously, I have to thank my whole team, my family, my wife Angela and my sponsors. They gave me a lot of support and it’s nice to start the year like this. I’m really pleased with everything right now. I still feel like I can get better and I can get even more comfortable. It’s still nice to play like how I did.
It’s always great to start with a win, to do it here at this golf course against a good field in Asia on conditions that weren’t easy. Hopefully I can ride on this momentum.
I’m extremely happy with how the week went. It was a tough day and a tough week, with the stopping and going. Fortunately, the weather held on, we were able to play and the people were able to enjoy it. Still, it was hard to play 27 holes under this heat and I can’t wait to get a cold shower.
I practiced a few weeks before coming here. I feel that I’m getting used to my new equipment. I came with some good confidence and wishing that I will play well. I was able to control my emotions quite well out there. I hit the ball solid the whole week and didn’t miss many shots.
When you are able to have a beautiful wife and a daughter coming your way, you can only be happy. They are very important.
Satoshi Kodaira (Jpn) – Final Round 71 (even-par), Total 275 (-9)
During the front nine, I really played well, but I missed two holes on the back nine. Maybe, it was because it was too hot then.
It was a nice week. I played with tension, played with lots of thinking, and played with top players on a top-quality golf course. I could not reach Sergio. I was thinking, 12 or 13 under for the win, but he went beyond that. But I am happy with the final result. My shots are coming good as well. If I play like this, I can compete.
The drive on the 18th gave me lots of confidence. Anyway, it’s nice to open the new season with a solid performance.
Jazz Janewattananond (Tha) – Final Round 71 (even-par), Total 276 (-8)
It was a great venue to start the year. I really enjoyed my experience here in Singapore.
As for the qualification to The Open, being able to play at a major tournament will be a dream come true! The Open will be my first one and it’s great because there are so many big names playing there. I played in the Junior Open Championship before, when it was held at London Links. It has been a long journey since.
Everyone had a similar journey. We played junior golf, some went to college and some like me, turned professional. But we all share the same goal, that is to play in the majors and on the biggest stage in golf. The Asian Tour is a good start to do all that, as it gives opportunities to young guys like me and I’m grateful for that.
Danthai Boonma (Tha) – Final Round 73 (+2), Total 276 (-8)
I struggled with the putter in the front nine of fourth round and made three-putts on a couple of holes. At hole three, I hit the ball into water and it cost me a double bogey, so it’s not a good start for the final round.
In the back nine I played better as I chipped in for birdie at the 14th to get my momentum back. I also scored another birdie at 16th. But it is disappointing to finish with a bogey after three-putting.
I am glad and honored to earn the place for The 147th Open at Carnoustie by finishing tied-third at the SMBC Singapore Open. It is an early birthday present for me.
Scores after round 4 of the SMBC Singapore Open being played at the par 71, 7398 Yards Sentosa GC course (am – denotes amateur):
270 – Sergio GARCIA (ESP) 66-70-66-68.
275 – Satoshi KODAIRA (JPN) 66-72-66-71, Shaun NORRIS (RSA) 69-67-69-70.
276 – Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA) 71-68-66-71, Danthai BOONMA (THA) 70-68-65-73.
277 – Sean CROCKER (USA) 71-70-67-69, Cameron DAVIS (AUS) 68-70-69-70.
278 – Miguel TABUENA (PHI) 71-69-68-70, Gavin GREEN (MAS) 71-67-69-71, Berry HENSON (USA) 70-72-71-65, Lucas HERBERT (AUS) 68-70-69-71.
279 – Poom SAKSANSIN (THA) 70-69-69-71, Yuki INAMORI (JPN) 70-70-67-72, ANDY ZHANG (am, CHN) 72-66-71-70, Danny MASRIN (INA) 71-66-67-75.
280 – LIANG Wenchong (CHN) 69-70-72-69, CHOO Tze Huang (SIN) 70-69-71-70, Gregory FOO (am, SIN) 69-69-69-73, Ryo ISHIKAWA (JPN) 69-66-74-71, Chapchai NIRAT (THA) 71-64-68-77.
281 – Panuphol PITTAYARAT (THA) 71-70-70-70, Pat PEREZ (USA) 70-72-71-68.
282 – Shunya TAKEYASU (JPN) 69-71-71-71, Ben LEONG (MAS) 70-68-73-71, Hiroshi IWATA (JPN) 69-69-74-70, Shiv KAPUR (IND) 70-67-71-74.
283 – Yoshinori FUJIMOTO (JPN) 68-72-71-72, Jyoti RANDHAWA (IND) 68-70-72-73, Ryuko TOKIMATSU (JPN) 70-71-68-74, Koumei ODA (JPN) 68-70-71-74, Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND) 66-72-75-70, Tirawat KAEWSIRIBANDIT (THA) 66-70-72-75.
Ends.
About Asian Tour
As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Rolex (Official Timekeeper), Panasonic (Official Consumer Electronics), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), 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
New Delhi, March 1: In-form Thai star Chawalit Plaphol will lead a cosmopolitan cast of Asian Tour champions when the region’s premier Tour heads to the US$300,000 SAIL-SBI Open presented by ”Incredible India” Ministry of Tourism next week.Sweet-swinging Chawalit claimed his career fourth title at the Zaykabar Myanmar Open last Sunday to emerge as one of […]
New Delhi, March 1: In-form Thai star Chawalit Plaphol will lead a cosmopolitan cast of Asian Tour champions when the region’s premier Tour heads to the US$300,000 SAIL-SBI Open presented by ”Incredible India” Ministry of Tourism next week.
Sweet-swinging Chawalit claimed his career fourth title at the Zaykabar Myanmar Open last Sunday to emerge as one of the early favourites for the SAIL-SBI Open, which celebrates its sixth edition this year.
Over 25 other Tour champions have signed up for the second leg the 2013 Schedule, which marks the Asian Tour’s milestone 10thseason since it was launched as a players’ organisation in 2004.
Other top names who will head to the venerable Delhi Golf Club from March 6-9 include American Berry Henson, Sweden’s Rikard Karlberg, who has won twice previously in India including the 2010 edition, Australian Darren Beck and big-hitting Scott Hend, Singapore’s Mardan Mamat and Thailand’s Chapchai Nirat, who shot a world-record of 32-under-par 256 at the event in 2009.
Sri Lanka’s Mithun Perera, who finished second in Myanmar, will be eager to maintain his flying start to his first full season on the Asian Tour while French rookie Lionel Webber, Singapore’s Quincy Quek and India’s Rahil Gangjee will be hoping to build on last week’s top-10 performances in Yangon.
All eyes will be on Chawalit following his superb victory over Perera where he needed two closing birdies to win the Myanmar title by one shot. The 38-year-old Thai believes the early season victory will pave the way for a great year ahead.
“I’m happy but a first win in two years is not enough! I want to win more Asian Tour titles. This win gives me more confidence to play on the Asian Tour,” said Chawalit.
The tenacious Perera, whose father Nandasena was a prominent name on the Asian golf scene during the 1980s and 1990s, underlined his growing potential by challenging Chawalit for the title by closing with a superb 65.
While disappointed he did not take home the winner’s trophy, Perera reckons his time will soon come.
“All you need is one good week to turn your life around. I feel my time is coming soon. I try my best in every tournament and I think the win is not far away,” said Mithun.
“I’m sure my father and my country are proud of me. Last week, I flew the Sri Lankan flag high. There’s no disappointment for me,” added the 26-year-old.
India’s S.S.P. Chowrasia, Shiv Kapur, Gaganjeet Bhullar and title holder Anirban Lahiri will be amongst the top stars expected to challenge for the SAIL-SBI Open at Delhi Golf Club.
Former Asian number one Jyoti Randhawa, who has triumphed on multiple occasions at the Delhi Golf Club, will also be expected to launch a title charge next week along with Digvijay Singh, holder of the Panasonic Open India title.
The SAIL-SBI Open is one of four Asian Tour events which will feature prominently in India. It will be followed by the Avantha Masters and Panasonic Open India in April. The Hero Indian Open is slated towards the second half of the year.
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), 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
Sentosa, Singapore, January 20: Thai players Danthai Boonma and Chapchai Nirat currently lead the weather-disrupted SMBC Singapore. Only six players completed round three, which was suspended due to bad weather. Danthai finished 15 holes before play was suspended at 6.20pm local time. He fired six birdies against a lone bogey to bring his current total to […]
Sentosa, Singapore, January 20: Thai players Danthai Boonma and Chapchai Nirat currently lead the weather-disrupted SMBC Singapore.
Only six players completed round three, which was suspended due to bad weather.
Danthai finished 15 holes before play was suspended at 6.20pm local time. He fired six birdies against a lone bogey to bring his current total to nine-under-par.
Chapchai, who started round three with a seven-under-par 135 total, brought his score down even further after totaling two-under-par through nine holes.
Seven players are currently tied-third at seven-under par. The group includes Thailand’s Jazz Janewattananond and South Africa’s Shaun Norris as well as Ryo Ishikawa.
Jazz was enjoying a bogey-free round before the sirens sounded. He fired four birdies through 17 holes.
Norris made a double bogey on the par-five fourth, but that was offset with three consecutive birdies on holes sixth, seventh and eighth.
Japan’s “Bashful Prince” got off to a great start to his third round with two consecutive birdies on his opening two holes. He bounced back with another birdie after a double bogey on the third. He dropped a shot at the seventh for a total of seven-under-par through nine holes.
62 players will resume round three on Sunday, 7.40am Singapore time.
Did you know:
Player Interviews:
Danthai Boonma (Tha) – nine-under-par through 15 holes
I played very well today, especially my putting. I’m just going to rest tonight to prepare for the long day. I must be focused and stick to my plan. I’ll just think about my swing, smile and have fun.
Chapchai Nirat (Tha) – nine-under-par through nine holes
I’m still adopting the same approach coming into round three. That is, to use the tournament to experiment and adapt to my swing. I won’t be overthinking about the tournament, just going to enjoy the experience here.
Jazz Janewattananond (Tha) – seven-under-par through 17 holes
I quite satisfied with my round so far and I would say that almost everything went well. My driver’s pretty good. My approach shot is good, as I hit it close a lot. Playing with Poom (Saksansin) was quite inspiring as he was making very good putts today. I’m not distracted by the rain. I like it actually, as I get to rest more.
Shaun Norris (Rsa) – seven-under-par through 10 holes
I hit the ball nicely. But for the fourth hole where I made a double after I made a bad decision on the second shot. But other than that, I’m quite happy with my game. It’s a little distracting with the weather disruptions but at least, for everybody, it’s the same. We just have to accept it and move on.
Scores after round 3 of the SMBC Singapore Open being played at the par 71, 7398 Yards Sentosa GC course (am – denotes amateur):
211 – Shunya TAKEYASU (JPN) 69-71-71, Yoshinori FUJIMOTO (JPN) 68-72-71.
213 – Jesse YAP (am, SIN) 68-72-73.
214 – Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA) 70-70-74, Arjun ATWAL (IND) 73-67-74.
217 – Seungtaek LEE (KOR) 74-65-78.
Ends.
About Asian Tour
As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Rolex (Official Timekeeper), Panasonic (Official Consumer Electronics), ECCO (Official Footwear Sponsor), 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
Chonburi, Thailand, February 28: Siddikur is on track of making history when he shared the opening round lead with Japanese amateur Hideki Matsuyama on six-under-par 66 at the Open Championship International Final Qualifying – Asia on Thursday.The Bangladeshi got off to a hot start where he was five-under after six holes to maintain his bid […]
Chonburi, Thailand, February 28: Siddikur is on track of making history when he shared the opening round lead with Japanese amateur Hideki Matsuyama on six-under-par 66 at the Open Championship International Final Qualifying – Asia on Thursday.
The Bangladeshi got off to a hot start where he was five-under after six holes to maintain his bid to become the first player to represent his country in the Open Championship.
China’s Hu Mu, Australian Scott Barr and Singaporeans Quincy Quek and Lam Zhiqun were a further shot back in the two-day qualifier where the top-four players qualify for the year’s third Major at Muirfield in July.
Siddikur, who is the first Bangladeshi to play and win on the Asian Tour, was in a similar position in the 2011 IFQ-Asia but he was disqualified on the last day when he failed to write a score for the last hole. He insists he will not repeat the same mistake again.
“There are no excuses for me (two years ago). I just didn’t play well after shooting a 66 on the first day. I was so excited but unfortunately I couldn’t keep up. My score would have been three-over if I wasn’t disqualified,” said Siddikur.
With a hot putter in tow, Siddikur traded seven birdies and one bogey to lead the way with the talented Matsuyama, who is a two-time Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship winner and the first Japanese amateur to play in the 2011 Masters Tournament.
“I’m very confident and my game is good. If I can play my game, I’m quite confident I’ll be able to qualify for the Open Championship,” said Siddikur.
Matsuyama hopes to make amends for last year’s heartbreak when he dropped six shots in the last three holes to miss the play-off for the fourth and final ticket to the Open Championship by two shots.
“I’ve forgotten about that and have already moved on. I’m looking forward to the last day and if I can keep playing like how I did, then I’ll be able to earn a place in the Open Championship,” said Matsuyama.
Singapore’s Quek, who is aiming to become the third Singaporean after Mardan Mamat and Lam Chih Bing to play in the Open Championship, was in the lead for 17 holes but hit his tee shot into the water on nine for a double bogey.
“I’m happy to be on five-under with a double bogey! In two-day events, you have to make as many birdies as you can. I guess my focus tomorrow is to enjoy the round and put in a low number,” said the 26-year-old.
Australian Barr mixed his round with eight birdies and one eagle against a double bogey and three bogeys as he plots a return to the Open Championship where he made his debut at the Royal Troon Golf Club in 2004.
“I started to hit the ball pretty well at the start and putted pretty good. I just had a couple of soft mistakes. This is a golf course where you can get in big trouble without doing many mistakes. Overall I’m happy but I hope to hold it together,” said Barr.
Scores after round 1 of the IFQ Asia 2013 being played at the par 72, 7419 Yards Amata Spring CC course (a- denotes amateur):
66 – SIDDIKUR (BAN), Hideki MATSUYAMA (am, JPN).
67 – HU Mu (CHN), Quincy QUEK (SIN), LAM Zhiqun (SIN), Scott BARR (AUS).
68 – Prayad MARKSAENG (THA), Anthony KANG (USA), Berry HENSON (USA), KIM Hyung-sung (KOR), PAN Cheng-tsung (am, TPE), WU Ashun (CHN), Rory HIE (INA), Kiradech APHIBARNRAT (THA).
69 – Kalle SAMOOJA (FIN), Arnond VONGVANIJ (THA), Scott HEND (AUS), Hiroshi IWATA (JPN), Yuta IKEDA (JPN).
70 – Stephen LEWTON (ENG), Nils FLOREN (SWE), Kwanchai TANNIN (THA), Prom MEESAWAT (THA), James BYRNE (SCO), Jaakko MAKITALO (FIN).
71 – Darren BECK (AUS), PARK Ju-hyuk (KOR), JOO Heung-chol (KOR), Gunn CHAROENKUL (THA), LAM Chih Bing (SIN), Niall TURNER (IRL), Daisuke MARUYAMA (JPN), Panuphol PITTAYARAT (THA), Tomohiro KONDO (JPN), Javi COLOMO (ESP).
72 – Kodai ICHIHARA (JPN), Miguel TABUENA (PHI), BAEK Seuk-hyun (KOR), Jonathan MOORE (USA), Chawalit PLAPHOL (THA), Ben FOX (USA), Grant JACKSON (ENG), Yosuke ASAJI (JPN).
Further information:
The R&A – Communications
+44 (0) 1334 460000
[email protected]
Doyle Decosta, Media Officer, the Asian Tour
+012 699 1976
[email protected]
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), 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





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