2 Local Players In Top Twenty At Combiphar Golf Inventational

Bogor, Indonesia, November 26 - American John Catlin closed with a second consecutive four-under-par 67 to seal his maiden Asian Development Tour (ADT) victory at the Combiphar Golf Invitational on Saturday.

John Catlin (2nd left) and Naraajie Ramadhan Putra (3rd right), flanked by Jimmy Masrin (Chairman of Asian Tour, left), Michael Wanand (CEO of Combiphar, 3rd left), Agung Budiman (President Director of Gunung Geulis Golf Resort, 2nd right) and Agus Triyono (Secretary General of the PGA Tour of Indonesia, right)

The 26-year-old Catlin, who started the day with a two-shot lead, sank four birdies against no bogey to claim a three-shot triumph with a 16-under-par 268 total at the Gunung Geulis Country Club situated in Bogor city.

Micah Lauren Shin, also of the United States, fired a 65 to grab a share of second place with Filipino stalwart Antonio Lascuna, who closed with a third straight 68, at the inaugural US$60,000 ADT event.

American Sam Cyr took fourth place on 273 following a 70 while Singapore’s Mitchell Slorach returned with a 71 to settle two shots back in fifth at the Combiphar Golf Invitational, which is the Tour’s second stop in Indonesia this season.

“This win means so much to me. I have been through a lot in my life both personally and as a professional over the last three years so it means a lot to finally win,” said the Bangkok-based Catlin, who turned professional in 2013 and is playing in his second year in Asia.

Catlin continued his overnight lead by nailing two straight birdies on the front to turn in 33. He sank a 20-foot breaking putt for birdie on 15 but was tied for lead with his fast-charging playing partner Lascuna on 15-under with three holes to play.

Catlin, however, kept his cool and regained the outright lead straightaway following a two-shot swing for birdie on 16 as Lascuna stumbled with back-to-back bogeys.

“I just kept it the same as the last three days. I just stayed patient out there. I am glad it paid off,” added Catlin, who took home the winner’s prize purse of US$10,500 and received six Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points courtesy of his win.

Indonesian amateur Naraajie Ramadhan Putra claimed the low amateur title by maintaining his nerves and putting in another solid round to finish in a tie for 16th, together with Danny Masrin who scored a lowest score of the day 65 in his final round.

Leading final round results:

268 - John CATLIN (USA) 70 64 67 67

271 - Micah Lauren SHIN (USA) 69 67 70 65, Antonio LASCUNA (PHI) 67 68 68 68

273 - Sam CYR (USA) 70 68 65 70

275 - Mitchell SLORACH (SGP) 70 63 71 71

276 - Atthaphon SRIBOONKAEW (THA) 69 75 66 66, Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA) 71 70 66 69, Panuwat MUENLEK (THA) 68 69 68 71

277 - Pannakorn UTHAIPAS (THA) 72 71 68 66, Chanat SAKULPOLPHAISAN (THA) 73 68 70 66, Victor OSTERBY (DEN) 68 72 70 67, Gavin GREEN (MAS) 73 69 66 69
Indonesian players (A denotes amateur):

279 - Naraajie E. RAMADHAN PUTRA (A) 70 71 70 68, Danny MASRIN 70 75 69 65

283 - Benita KASIADI 72 71 72 68

284 - Ian ANDREW 72 67 73 72, Junaidi IBRAHIM 73 71 71 69

285 - Rinaldi ADIYANDONO 72 69 72 72

288 - George GANDRANATA 75 67 73 73, Indra HERMAWAN 69 76 70 73, Ramadhan ALWIE 71 73 72 72

290 - Rifqi ALAM (A) 68 73 73 76, Adrian HALIMI 72 71 71 76, Almay Rayhan YAQUTAH (A) 73 71 72 74

Local Amateur Ramadhan Putra Looking For A Top 20 Finish At The Combiphar Golf Invitational

Bogor, Indonesia, November 25 - American John Catlin holed a pivotal birdie putt on the last for a four-under-par 67 to lead by two shots in the penultimate round of the Combiphar Golf Invitational on Friday.

Catlin, who started the round with a one-shot deficit, marked his card with five birdies against a lone bogey to sit atop the leaderboard on 12-under-par 201 total at the Gunung Geulis Country Club situated in Bogor city.

His compatriot Sam Cyr posted a solid 65 to share second place with Filipino stalwart Antonio Lascuna, who returned with a second consecutive 68, at the inaugural US$60,000 Asian Development Tour event, which is the Tour’s second stop in Indonesia this season.

Overnight leader Mitchell Slorach of Singapore slipped to fourth place on 204 following a 71 while Thailand’s Panuwat Muenlek, who is chasing for a third win this season, settled a further shot back in fifth after carding a 68.

“It was a grind but I stayed patient and kept it going out there. The conditions were pretty similar to yesterday. I made a nice breaking putt on 18 from 15 feet to finish with a birdie. That was my highlight today,” said Catlin.

“I will keep everything the same tomorrow. I just need to stay patient,” added the Bangkok-based 26-year-old, who is searching for a maiden win on the secondary circuit, which was launched in 2010 as a gateway to the region’s premier Tour.

Cyr credited his solid drives for giving him a fighting chance to challenge for a maiden win. “I played a really solid round. I hit a lot of good shots and I feel like my game is getting sharper each round. I am very happy about that.”

“I was able to hit it close a few times today. I like the way I am striking the ball. I left myself in good places to be aggressive on my putts as well. I made seven-footers on sixth and 16 and sank a 13-footer on 10,” said the 30-year-old Cyr.

Best of the local players is amateur Naraajie Ramadhan Putra, who scored a third successive sub-par round and is currently in a T19 with 5-under-par. He's one shot ahead of Ian Andrew who's in a tie for 26th after carding a 73.

Leading third round results:

201 - John CATLIN (USA) 70 64 67

203 - Sam CYR (USA) 70 68 65, Antonio LASCUNA (PHI) 67 68 68

204 - Mitchell SLORACH (SGP) 70 63 71

205 - Panuwat MUENLEK (THA) 68 69 68

206 - Micah Lauren SHIN (USA) 69 67 70

207 - John Michael O’TOOLE (USA) 72 70 65, Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA) 71 70 66, Tawan PHONGPHUN (THA) 71 69 67

208 - Gavin GREEN (MAS) 73 69 66

Indonesian players (A denotes amateur):

211 - Naraajie E. RAMADHAN PUTRA (A) 70 71 70

212 - Ian ANDREW 72 67 73

213 - Rinaldi ADIYANDONO 72 69 72

214 - Rifqi ALAM (A) 68 73 73, Adrian HALIMI 72 71 71, Danny MASRIN 70 75 69

215 - George GANDRANATA 75 67 73, Benita KASIADI 72 71 72, Junaidi IBRAHIM 73 71 71, Indra HERMAWAN 69 76 70

216 - Almay Rayhan YAQUTAH (A) 73 71 72, Ramadhan ALWIE 71 73 72

12 Local Players Through To Final Rounds At Combiphar Golf Invitational

Bogor, Indonesia, November 24 - Singapore’s Mitchell Slorach soared into the lead after signing for a superb eight-under-par 63 at the halfway stage of the Combiphar Golf Invitational on Thursday.

Starting the day three shots back, the 29-year-old Singaporean fired 10 birdies against two bogeys to lead by one shot on nine-under-par 133 total at the Gunung Geulis Country Club situated in Bogor city.

American John Catlin returned with a 64 to take second place while Filipino stalwart Antonio Lascuna sits a further shot back in third after posting a 68 at the inaugural US$60,000 Asian Development Tour event, which is the Tour’s second stop in Indonesia this season.

Micah Lauren Shin, also of the United States, signed for a 67 to take fourth place on 136 while Thailand’s Panuwat Muenlek and Raphael De Sousa of Switzerland shared fifth on 137 following identical 69s.

Slorach fired two opening birdies from 10 before dropping a shot on 12. He made it up right away with a birdie on 13 and nailed three straight birdies from 16 to turn in 31. He then added two pairs of birdies against a bogey on his way home for a 32.

“I struck the ball great and I putted very well. I missed only one fairway today and I hit 17 greens in regulation. I hit it close and I was able to give myself chances to make birdies today.

“I played with no expectations. I went out feeling calm and I stayed calm throughout the round. I managed myself well,” said Slorach, who enjoyed his best result on the ADT when he finished runner-up in the last event in Malaysia two months ago.

“The conditions are very wet. It will be a huge bonus if you can get on the fairways, given the preferred lies in play. I played pretty much the same as I did yesterday except that the putts went in today,” added Slorach.

Catlin credited his short game for a commendable round. “I putted very well. I gave myself a lot of birdie putts and my short game was on point as I only missed a few greens. I made a couple of 20-footers and sank most of the putts from five to 15 feet. I was rock solid,” said the Bangkok-based 26-year-old.

“I chipped it in from about 30 feet for eagle on 16. It was an uphill chip. I played aggressively and it went in. I went on the birdie the next hole and it was nice finishing the way I did. I will continue to stay patient. There is still a long way to go,” added Catlin, who traded an eagle and seven birdies against two bogeys.

The halfway cut was set at three-over-par 145 with a total of 59 players, including 12 Indonesian, advancing into the weekend rounds.

Leading second round results:

133 - Mitchell SLORACH (SGP) 70-63

134 - John CATLIN (USA) 70-64

135 - Antonio LASCUNA (PHI) 67-68

136 - Micah Lauren SHIN (USA) 69-67

137 - Panuwat MUENLEK (THA) 68-69, Raphael DE SOUSA (SUI) 68-69

138 - Genki OKADA (JPN) 68-70, Natthapong NIYOMCHON (THA) 71-67, Sorachut HANSAPIBAN (THA) 71-67, Sam CYR (USA) 70-68

Indonesian players that made the cut:

139 - Ian ANDREW 72-67

141 - Naraajie E. RAMADHAN PUTRA (A) 70-71, Rifqi ALAM (A) 68-73, Rinaldi ADIYANDONO 72-69

142 - George GANDRANATA 75-67

143 - Adrian HALIMI 72-71, Benita KASIADI 72-71

144 - Junaidi IBRAHIM 73-71, Almay Rayhan YAQUTAH (A) 73-71, Ramadhan ALWIE 71-73

145 - Danny MASRIN 70-75, Indra HERMAWAN 69-76

Jordan Irawan Collects His First Professional Title At Sawangan GC

Sawangan, February 18th - Series I of the Indonesian Golf Tour (IGT) always has produced a new face in the list of champions. This time, Jordan Surya Irawan carved his name as a champion in Series I of the Indonesian Golf Tour 2016 co-presented by OB Sports Golf and Ancora.

Jordan scored his first professional title after ending the game in the last round with a score of 71 (one-under par), thus accumulating a total score of 212 (four-under par). The 20-year-old golfer played only one shot less than Rifqi Alam, who nudged into second position.

"This is a positive result of what I have already applied for three days. Control my emotions, befriend the pressure. I have achieved the best results without being burdened with a variety of things that would damage my game," said Jordan. The mental fight was then won by Jordan who collected Rp34 million as prize money for his success in winning the Indonesian Golf Tour Series I 2016, which was held at Sawangan Golf Club.

In addition to mental pressure from within, Jordan, who made three birdies and two bogeys in the final round, also had to deal with the persistence of Rinaldi Adiyandono, Benita Y. Kasiadi, and Ian Andrew who were in pursuit. Rinaldi was at the 13th hole level with Jordan, who was two groups behind him, at the top of the leaderboard with a total score of 4 under. Unfortunately, a double bogey on hole 14 directly dropped Rinaldi to a tie for third until the last hole.

Benita, who played just in front of the group with Rinaldi, was sticking closely to the top of the leaderboard with a score of 3-under total until the 15th hole. However, he was not able to gain ground on the last three holes and even had to concede a bogey on hole 18. Eventually he had to be satisfied with a T-3 position with Rinaldi and Kurnia Herisiandy.

"Today my shots were not good. Many opportunities were wasted," said the winner of three IDT titles in 2015.

Ian played like crazy for 17 holes without a single bogey with a total score of 3-under, while taking the fight for top spot to a very tight battle. But just like Benita, Ian made a costly mistake on the final hole and ended up with a double bogey.

Rifqi Alam actually had a surprise showing. After successfully maintaining a consistent game for two days with a total score of 1-under, the amateur athlete from Jakarta slowly climbed towards the top of the leaderboard.

After completing the first nine holes with a total score of two under by making three birdies and two bogeys, Rifqi went to 3 under at hole 10, only to be back to 2 under in hole 11. The 18-year-old finally locked his score to 3-under on hole 17, which put him in second place overall while winning "the Low Amateur".

"My game was starting to feel comfortable after hole 5. This result is my best achievement in IGT. My participation in this event is to improve my skills and score more rounds under par," said the Junior National Championship winner in 2015, who participated a couple of times in IGT 2015.

Meanwhile, Juriah had confirmed herself as the Low Ladies Amateur. The athlete from Jakarta finished the third round with a score of 72 (even par) and a total score of 220 (four above par).

"Because I was already certain to be champion, at the end I focused more on improving my score. My target was to play under par, but clearly I missed this target. Besides this, it was a test for my stamina to play three days in a row."

2016 Season Of The Indonesian Golf Tour To Commence Tomorrow At Sawangan Golf Club

Sawangan, 15 February - The Indonesian Golf Tour. the national professional golf circuit, will start tomorrow its third season with Series I, running from February 16 to 18. For this year OB Golf becomes the presenting sponsor of IGT. This is a sign of care for and commitment to national golf by the company which already operates since 2003.

As in previous years, Indonesia's best professional golfers will compete for a total prize amount of 200 million in each series. This time, Sawangan Golf Club becomes the venue for the 2016 season-opening event.

Welcoming the competition in the new season, some golfers already prepared themselves. For example Benita Yuniarto Kasiadi. The defending champion of Series I, which last year was held at the Matoa Nasional Golf Club, claims to have no special preparation. He just practiced regularly and continues to keep physically trained so that he is fit when plunging in the tournament. "Especially because the current weather conditions can easily change 180 degrees, from heat to rain and vice versa. Therefore, I have to maintain a good physical condition in order to preform better during the tournament," said Benita.

Especially for Sawangan, Benita continued to hone his short game. "The speed ​​on the greens at Sawangan are likely to be slow. This is what keeps me practicing," said the winner of three titles in the 2015 IGT, who this season will be more focused on his second shot and short game.

Not only Benita, Rinaldi Adiyandono also continue to improve the game around the green. "I am increasing the exercise on my short game as the green speed in Sawangan is more slowly, so that I learn the techniques to overcome them," said the Grand Final champion of IGT 2014. The preparation of Rinaldi is more specific when approaching the tournament so that it can reach its peak during the tournament.

Some national players, such as George Gandranata, Ian Andrew, Rory Hie, Danny Masrin, William Sjaichuddin, and Jordan Surya Irawan, were even heating up the temperature of their game with z plunge into international tournaments on the calendar of the Asian Development Tour is early January.

Ian, who already declared his participation in IGT Series I, will be arriving at Sawangan with satisfactory results during his adventure in ADT. The IGT 2015 Grand Final champion is in 16th place on the ADT Order of Merit in 2016 after battling in the PGM UMW Championship from 3-6 February. Ian's success is followed by Rory in 67th and Danny at 87 in the ADT Order of Merit.

Therefore IGT presented by OB Golf Series I is expected to present a fierce battle. Who will break the first egg at the start of this 2016 season?

In addition to accommodate the professional golfer, IGT also presents amateur golfers who want to try out skills in the professional event. A total of 24 men and six women amateur golfers have declared their participation in this event. However, this number will continue to grow because the deadline for registration is until today.

To be sure, they will gain valuable experience and at the same time improve their golfing abilities in this competitive arena

Ian Andrew Claims Victory After Playoff At The Grand Final Of The Indonesian Golf Tour

Karawaci, 10 December - The final round of the Grand Final of the 2015 Indonesian Golf Tour (IGT) presented by LINC Group really presented a fight that could be considered the "peak" of the IGT journey during the year. The Grand Final champion could only be determined after extended drama (play-off). The actors being Benita Y. Kasiadi, Ian Andrew, and 2014 champion Rinaldi Adiyandono. All three had an equal score of 208 (eight-under par) after completing the final round, therefore a play-off was unavoidable.

Ian Andrew eventually established himself as the champion of the Grand Final of the Indonesian Golf Tour presented by LINC Group in 2015, held at Imperial Klub Golf, Karawaci Tangerang. A birdie from a distance of about two meters established the 27-year-old golfer as Indonesia's best golfer this season, while Benita and Rinaldi were only able to make par.

"I intentionally attacked the pin at the third shot, because I could Benita's ball was just half a meter from the pin. But, as it turned out my ball fell in front of the pin. Therefore, I was forced to attempt to make a birdie, and it worked!" said Ian, who was determined to win this Grand Final.

Ian completed the last round with a score of 70 (two-under par), maintaining his position atop the leaderboard that he shared with Rinaldi in the second round. However, Ian admitted he was worried to see Benita's game during the final round.

"At 17 I already lost hope, when I made bogey and Rinaldi scored birdie, leaving me behind by one stroke of Benita and Rinaldi who both were at eight-under par. They had a chance (to win) at hole 18, I was just determined to make birdie on the final hole. Fortunately, they failed to birdie the hole," said Ian, who took home a cash prize of Rp 48.000.000. "But Benita was remarkable today. He should have scored at least 10-under par. Unfortunately for him some of his short putts did not go in."

It looked like Benita played flawless. Without scoring a single bogey, the winner of three titles at the IGT 2015 series could match the total score of Ian and Rinaldi after carding a round of 66 (six-under par).

"My goal today was to finish at eight-under par. Therefore my target was reached. I didn't think of becoming champion as the second day I played very poorly. That's why I did not set that target. When I could compete for the play-offs, I thought this to be my best achievement after successfully reaching my target of eight-under par," said Benita.

Rinaldi, who failed to defend his title in the Grand Final, was not too disappointed with the final result at the play-offs, although he had a great opportunity to win. He considered the Grand Final as a try out for himself before plunging to the level of the Asian Tour next season.

"This becomes my stepping stone, because my main target is the Asian Tour Q-School in Thailand. This tournament can forge me mentally as well as my game, so that I can reach my peak at the time of Q-School," said Rinaldi.

He therefore was happy that Ian could win the Grand Final. For him, this indicates that the ability of several national professional golfers started to become more evenly, so that winners are not limited to one or two people. He saw his and other golfers overall score has improved in the past year.

"In my opinion, the implementation of IGT last season started a process of which we can see the results in improvements this season. As golfer we become more mature, and our competitive spirit becomes more visible," he added.

In addition to the announcement of the winner, during the Grand Final of the 2015 Indonesian Golf Tour (IGT) presented by LINC Group awards were also to the sponsors and golf courses that have supported the smooth implementation of the IGT season 2015. Some media also received attention and awards for their coverage of IGT 2015,

In the amateur category, Cahyo Adhitomo finally won the low amateur. The excellent play Cahyo displayed the day before did not make him waste this opportunity. On the final day Bobby, as he is usually called, completed his round with a score of 71 (one-under par), for an accumulated score of 215 (one-under par). Cahyo outperformed runner-up Dicky Prionggo by seven shots.

While for the ladies amateurs, Putri Aisha Amani won the battle with Michela Tjan through count back, and won the Low Amateur for ladies. Putri, who posted a score of 79 (seven over par) and Michela who today played with a score of 80 equally accumulated a total score of 239 (23-over par). The winner was decided by count back, based on final day scores made by both players over a number of predetermined holes.

Third IGT Win Solidifies Benita Kasiadi's Order Of Merit Lead

Cikarang, August 6 - There were no surprises in the results of the Indonesia Golf Tour Series V at Jababeka Golf & Country Club. As predicted, Benita Yuniarto Kasiadi successfully established himself as champion at the most recent leg of the national professional golf circuit with a total of 200 million in prize money. The total score of seven-under par (206) for Benita was difficult to follow any golfer, including I Ketut Sugiarta who finished second with a score of 217 (four-over par).

Although closing the game with a score of even par in the final round, this did not change the position at the top of the Order of Merit of the Indonesia PGA 2015 Tour. "My game plan did not meet my target, making 3 under or 4 under today. i made no change in how I played. Everything was the same as yesterday", said Benita, who took home the Rp 32 million first prize.

With this result Benita nestled himself more firmly at the top of the 2015 Order of Merit. His success this time was also a record in the history of the IGT, with the largest winning margin of 11 strokes.

This IGT V Series title is Benita third title this season. He is eying another title again this season to meet his target. "Based on the management target, especially for this year, I should be able to win as much as 4 times on the IGT. Then the next target is to play an ADT tournament. Hopefully I can qualify for next year's Asian Tour", added Benita.

Series V IGT presented indeed a venue that was difficult enough for the participants. The heat became a separate obstacle for most players. They also had to face fairways that were "unfriendly". The ball seemed to stop and it seemed difficult to roll in the fairway. Plus, the slippery green conditions made it difficult for participants to make low scores.

Benita also recognized the challenges posed at this 18-hole course. "The condition of the pitch is quite hot and windy and very draining," said Benita. I Ketut Sugiarta agreed regarding the state of the pitch. He also found it difficult to develop his game. "The weather was windy which impacted my second shot, that often was caught by the wind and swirled to the left," said Ketut.

Ketut praised Benita's game that was not affected by his playing partners. Despite failing to win, Ketut was satisfied because he was beaten by a young golfer. He is also pleased that the IGT can produce young golfers with potential. "Looking at the current competition in the IGT, there are many young professionals that have extraordinary abilities. I am very proud to see new seeds that will carry the name of Indonesia to the international level", he added. For him, the IGT became a very good tournament for Indonesian professionals to compete at the local level in preparation for the international level.

After chasing one another, Kadek Adi Putra Saksama and Adrian Halimi ended up sharing the title of Low Amateur. Both had a total score of 227 (14-over par). This is the first time in the history that IGT's best amateur champion was won by two golfers.

Leading scores after the final round of IGT Series V (Par 71):

206 - Benita Y. KASIADI 67-68-71

217 - I Ketut SUGIARTA 74-71-72

220 - Johannes DERMAWAN 71-77-72, Indra HERMAWAN 70-76-74

221 - Danny MASRIN 78-74-69, Jordan Surya IRAWAN 77-74-70, Ramadhan ALWIE 75-73-73

222 - Hendry NASIM 75-74-73, Kurnia HERISIANDY 74-74-74

223 - Junaidi IBRAHIM 75-74-74, Fajar Win NURYANTO 73-75-75

Ian Andrew Wins Second Series Of The Indonesian Golf Tour At Modern

Tangerang, 26 September 2015 - It's without doubt that the competition in Indonesian golf is getting tougher. After sharing first place alongside Kurnia Herisiandy, Johannes Dermawan, and Rory Hie after the second day, Ian Andrew scored his first victory in the Indonesian Golf Tour series at Padang Golf Modern.

With 3 holes remaining, Ian Andrew, Kelly Herisiandy and George Gandranata were equal with a score of seven-under-par. George almost holed a birdie on hole 18, but failed and finished his game with a total score of 209 to tie with Kurnia Herisiandy.

"I played well today. My iron play today was better than the first 2 days, and my short game was quite supportive, as I also did three chip-ins and had 6 birdies", said George Gandranata.

"The competition is very tight. You have to really score a lot of birdies to win", added the Order of Merit champion of the Indonesian Golf Tour 2014.

Ian Andrew sealed his victory on the last two holes. On hole 17 Ian scored a birdie and followed up with a birdie on hole 18 as well. He finished the tournament with a spectacular total score of nine-under-par 207 (72-68-67).

Who would have thought that training on his putting after the first round would bring Ian the championship.

"I'd been trying to find improvement on putting on youtube till night. The next day I arrived early and tried out the different putting technique that I found and it turned out fantastic! I used it on the second day and the results are good."

"Today was tense. On the 18th hole I aimed the ball to the middle of the fairway. Only when Heri (Kurnia Herisiandy) shot his ball slightly outside the fairway I began to feel calm. And all went smoothly after that", said Ian Andrew.

Naraaji finished as Lowest Amateur in this edition of the Indonesian Golf Tour. With a total score of two-over-par 218 (74-71-71), Naraajie overtook Faraby Ali, who had been the leading amateur on the first and second day. Finishing in second position in the amateur class was Rizky, with a total score of three-over-par, 72-74-73 (219).

The tight competition proves that the presence of Indonesian Golf Tour tournament series pushes the ability of the Indonesian professional and amateur golfers to a new level. The consistent support from sponsors and the PGA Tour of Indonesia (PGTI) in the organization of the Indonesian Golf Tour becomes evidence of a strong commitment to the advancement of golf in Indonesia.

Thanks goes to Padang Golf Modern, Nuanza, OB Golf & Lifestyle magazine, as well as the PGA Tour of Indonesia. Once more, the tournament was executed fantastically and ended in a great success.

Leading scores after the final round of the Indonesian Golf Tour at PG Modern:

(Indonesian unless stated)

207 - Ian ANDREW 72-68-67

209 - George GANDRANATA 71-72-66, Kurnia HERISIANDY 70-70-69

212 - Junaidi IBRAHIM 72-71-69, Rory HIE 68-72-72

213 - Johannes DERMAWAN 68-72-73

214 - Benita Y. KASIADI 74-70-70

215 - I Ketut SUGIARTA 69-73-73

216 - James BOWEN (USA) 72-73-71

217 - HARJITO 71-74-72, ILYASSAK 71-72-74

Benita Kasiadi Seals First Victory In Indonesian Golf Tour At Matoa

Jakarta, January 16, 2015 - A new season, a new champion, when the season-opening event of the Indonesian Golf Tour welcomed a new champion in Benita Yuniarto Kasiadi. He finished the tournament, held at Matoa National Golf Course, with a score of 71-69-69 at seven-under-par (209). Second round leader Indra Hermawan, veteran Maan Nasim and amateur golfer Kevin C. Akbar kept putting pressure on the leader, when on hole 18 all three of them had the opportunity to score a birdie and force a play-off, but unfortunately all three of them failed to score a birdie on this final hole, handing victory to Benita Yuniarto Kasiadi.

"I am very happy to be a champion today. This is my first win since 2010. Glad to be included in the Champion category", said Kasiadi

"I am a little bit disappointed with my putts today. I failed in many occasions. But in the end I am very grateful for the results achieved", added the 27-year-old player.

Amateur player Kevin C. Akbar ended up being in a second place tie with Indra Hermawan and Maan Nasim. Kevin became the amateur player with the lowest score with 70-68-72, six-under-par (205). Maan Nasim scored 69-69-72 while Indra Hermawan scored 68-69-73.

"I did not hit good from the tee today. But I had a good short game. I felt a bit lucky today, it is quite difficult to put the ball into the hole. At hole 18 I felt the pressure, I tried my best therefore enjoyed my game" said Kevin C. Akbar.

In addition to Kevin, there are six amateur golfers who survived the cut. Indonesian Golf Tour Presented by Linc Group proves that the Indonesian amateurs increasingly get stronger to compete with professional Indonesian players, and the hope for the future is that more and more amateurs, both men and women, will participate in the next tournament.

Leading scores after final round of the Indonesian Golf Tour At Matoa (Par 72):

209 - Benita Y. KASIADI 71-69-69

210 - Kevin C AKBAR (am) 70-68-72, Maan NASIM 69-69-72, Indra HERMAWAN 68-69-73

211 - George GANDRANATA 74-67-70

213 - GUNAWAN 70-70-72

213 - Junaidi IBRAHIM 70-76-67, Rory HIE 69-76-68, Jordan Surya IRAWAN 75-68-70, Fahmi REZA 71-68-74

George Gandranata Enters Top Ten At Bank BRI Indonesia Open

Jakarta, December 5 - In-form Thanyakon Khrongpha of Thailand fired a superb eight-under-par 63 to seize the clubhouse lead as Padraig Harrington’s charge was stopped by bad weather at the BANK BRI Indonesia Open on Friday.

The slightly-built Thai produced a near perfect card in the calm morning conditions which included nine birdies before stumbling to a lone bogey on his last hole to settle for a 12-under-par 130 total at the Damai Indah Golf, Pantai Indah Kapuk Course.

Multiple Major winner Harrington negotiated his way in 12-under through 12 holes before the US$750,000 halfway stage was called off for the day due to inclement weather. The Irishman and 66 other players will resume play at 6.30am on Saturday.

Among the players who finished their rounds include Asian Tour rookie Nathan Holman of Australia, who was two shots back after matching Thanyakon’s efforts of 63, while Scott Hend and Jarin Todd of the United States shot identical 64s for a 133 total.

George Gandranata (68) continued his good form and provisionally entered the top ten, and is being challenged for top Indonesian player by Jordan Irawan, who fired a 67 and is now one shot behind George. However the rest of the home field will likely not make the cut that currently is projected at +1 (143).

The slightly built Thanyakon continued his rich vein of form after securing two top-five results in Japan and Chiangmai in the last three weeks. He is beginning to reap the rewards of working with his coach Andrew Knott since 2013.

“Everything in my game was good especially my ball striking. I hit a lot of shots for close range birdies. The longest birdie of the day was on the seventh hole from 30 feet,” said the 24-year-old Thanyakon.

“I enjoyed a good run after turning professional in 2010 but after that I didn’t do too well because I had no confidence in my swing. Mentally I was not strong enough. Then last year, I worked with Andrew and I’ve really improved since then,” he explained.

Harrington, a three-time Major winner, was five-under at the turn courtesy of an opening eagle which he holed from 15 feet. He marked his card with another bogey and birdie before play was abandoned.

“I had a nice start. I hit a nice drive and a five iron to about 15 feet for eagle. I birdied the next two as well. It was nice to be four-under after three holes. I didn’t play quite solid after that but we’ll have to see if I can finish strongly tomorrow,” said Harrington.

“The course is playing nicely. There was a bit of wind in the afternoon which made it trickier. As I play more rounds I get to know the course a little better. I have an early wake-up call tomorrow so hopefully I can continue to do well,” he explained.

Tour rookie Holman took advantage of the ideal scoring conditions without shooting a single bogey. Currently ranked 95th on the Order of Merit, the Australian is spurred on by the thought of saving his card for next year.

“I’m looking to play on the Asian Tour until the end of the year and try to keep my card. Keeping my card is definitely on my mind and it is spurring me on a little bit. Anytime you shoot in the low 60s when you got something on the line is always good,” said Holman.

Big-hitting Hend, who won his first Asian Tour title on this course in 2008, eagled the 13th hole from eight feet to charge into contention.

“I had some loose shots coming in and I’m a bit lucky to make some par putts and saves. I hit it good on the first nine and not so good on the back so it even out. Now I’m in a nice position,” said Hend, a six-time Asian Tour winner.

Scores after round 2 of the Bank BRI Indonesia Open (Par 71):

(Indonesian unless stated, A denotes amateur)

130 – Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA) 67-63

132 – Nathan HOLMAN (AUS) 69-63

133 – Jarin TODD (USA) 69-64, Scott HEND (AUS) 69-64

137 – Poosit SUPUPRAMAI (THA) 70-67, Chris RODGERS (ENG) 69-68, George GANDRANATA 69-68, Blair WILSON (AUS) 68-69

138 – Jordan IRAWAN 71-67, Quincy QUEK (SIN) 71-67

Selected:

144 - Jamel ONDO 75-69

146 - William SJAICHUDIN 77-69, Andik MAULUDIN 72-74

147 - Kurnia Herisiandy SANTOSO 77-70

149 - Ian ANDREW 76-73

150 - Rinaldi ADIYANDONO 76-74

152 - Indra HERMAWAN 74-78, I Ketut SUGIARTA 78-74

154 - Joshua Andrew WIRAWAN 79-75, Dominikus GLENN (A) 78-76

155 - Bramantio ADI 79-76

156 - Cahyo ADHITOMO (A) 76-80, Kevin C. AKBAR (A) 80-76

157 - Anugerah BAGINDA (A) 79-78

158 - Fajar WINURYANTO 80-78

161 - Asep SAEFULLOH 81-80

162 - Ramadhan ALWIE (INA)

Still to complete the second round:

-12 - Padraig HARRINGTON (IRL) 64 -5 (12)

-7 - Sam BRAZEL (AUS) 68 -4 (12), Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS) 63 +1 (11)

-6 - Danny CHIA (MAS) 68 -3 (13)

-5 - Bryce EASTON (RSA) 67 -1 (10)

+2 - Johannes DERMAWAN 72 +1 (15)

+3 - Junaidi IBRAHIM 74 Par (9)

+5 - Benny KASIADI 75 +1(16)

+7 - Fahmi REZA 76 +2(8)

+8 - Calvin ALAN (A) 79 Par (9)

+10 - Rizchy SUBEKTI (A) 77 +4 (16), Zaki AULIYAN (A) 73 +8 (16)

+11 - Asep CAPRIE 74 +8 (12), Ilyasyak 82 Par (9)

+16 - Jon CAHYADI (A) 83 +4 (8)

+20 - Rafa SALMUN (A) 85 +6 (8)

George Gandranata Leads Local Field In First Round Of Bank BRI Indonesia Open

Jakarta, December 4 - Kalem Richardson of Australia fired a superb eight-under-par 63 to lead by one shot over Padraig Harrington of Ireland after the first round of the BANK BRI Indonesia Open on Thursday.

Richardson, who has two top-five results in his last three events, rolled in eight birdies, including a 20-footer on the last hole to steal the limelight from Harrington, who is making his debut at the US$750,000 Asian Tour event.

The three-time Major champion, produced his best score in 2014 with a 64 after birdieing his first two holes from close range at the Damai Indah Golf – Pantai Indah Kapuk course.

Australia’s Adam Groom battled through a leg infection to return with a 67 to tie for third place alongside India’s Arjun Atwal, Thanyakon Khrongpha of Thailand and Bryce Easton of South Africa.

The local field was led by it's current number 1 player, George Gandranata, and amateur Fadhli Soetarso. Both players played 2-under par and are in a 15-way tie for 14th place. Another amateur, Tirto Tamardi, is one shot further back, with Jordan Irawan (71) as well as Johannes Dermawan and Andik Mauludin (both 72) all still in the top 54.

Starting from the 10th tee, Richardson stayed sharp on his first nine holes, as he did not play the stretch during the practice round, and was rewarded with four straight birdies before turning in 31.

“I guess when you haven’t played the back nine, you concentrate more because you don’t know where you are going. You really need to rely on the yardage book and good advice from your caddy,” said the 26-year-old Richardson.

He is playing without any pressure this week after securing his full Asian Tour card for the 2015 season after finishing tied fourth in Thailand last week.

“I secured my Asian Tour card last week so I’m going to try and enjoy the week and see what happens. I got no pressure on me now so I’ll just try and finish as high as I can on the Order of Merit. Obviously I want to try to get a win before the season ends,” said the Australian, who is ranked 47th on the Merit list.

Harrington took advantage of his early morning start and birdied his opening two holes before going on to add six more birdies which included a 15-footer birdie on the par three seventh hole.

“I could have picked a few spots to make more birdies. I made a nice 15-footer on the seventh hole and it is always nice to hole a nice putt when you are already six-under for the day,” said the Irishman.

“Overall I’m happy with the round. Obviously it is still a long way to go. It was very nice early on and the greens are a little bit softer. When the wind came up after nine holes, it wasn’t really a problem for me because I had a few birdies in the bank at that stage,” smiled Harrington.

Atwal, the 2003 Asian Tour number one and first Indian to win on the PGA Tour, got off to a slow start when he turned in 35 but bounced back with three birdies on his way home.

“I didn’t take advantage of the early start. I didn’t make a birdie after six holes but I stayed patient and tried to hole some putts which happened on my back nine. My game is getting better every week and I’m happy with today’s efforts,” said Atwal.

Thailand’s Thanyakon holed his greenside bunker shot on the first hole for eagle and chipped-in from 125 yards on the par four fifth hole for his second eagle of the day.

The slightly built Thai hopes to continue his hot form after finishing tied third in Japan last week and securing a share of second place in Chiangmai on the Asian Tour two weeks ago.

“It was a good day even though I bogeyed the last. I’m playing with a lot of confidence. I missed the cut here last year but now I’m playing much better,” said the 24-year-old Thanyakon.

Scores after round 1 of the Bank BRI Indonesia Open (Par 71:

(Indonesian unless stated, A denotes amateur):

63 – Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS)

64 – Padraig HARRINGTON (IRL)

67 – Adam GROOM (AUS), Bryce EASTON (RSA), Arjun ATWAL (IND), Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA)

68 – Danny CHIA (MAS), Rahil GANGJEE (IND), Sam BRAZEL (AUS), S.S.P CHOWRASIA (IND), Daniel CHOPRA (SWE), Carlos PIGEM (ESP), Blair WILSON (AUS)

Selected:

69 – Fadhli Rahman SOETARSO (A), George GANDRANATA

70 – Tirto TAMARDI (A)

71 - Jordan IRAWAN

72 - Johannes DERMAWAN, Andik MAULUDIN

73 - Zaki AULIYAN (A)

74 - Asep CAPRIE, Junaidi IBRAHIM, Indra HERMAWAN

75 - Benny KASIADI, Jamel ONDO

76 - Fahmi REZA, Ian ANDREW, Cahyo ADHITOMO (A), Rinaldi ADIYANDONO

77 - Rizchy SUBEKTI (A), William SJAICHUDIN, Kurnia Herisiandy SANTOSO

78 - I Ketut SUGIARTA, Dominikus GLENN (A)

79 - Calvin ALAN (A), Anugerah BAGINDA (A), Joshua Andrew WIRAWAN, Bramantio ADI

80 - Fajar WINURYANTO, Kevin C. AKBAR (A)

81 - Sarmilih, Asep SAEFULLOH

82 - Ilyasyak

83 - Jon CAHYADI (A), Ramadhan ALWIE

85 - Rafa SALMUN (A)

Soewarno In Pursuit After Day One Of Linc Group Jakarta Classic

Jakarta, July 15 - Brett Munson of the United States got off to a hot start when he returned with a flawless five-under-par 67 to take the opening round lead at the Linc Group Jakarta Classic on Tuesday.

England’s Grant Jackson, local hope K. Soewarno and Annop Tangkamolprasert of Thailand trailed the leader by two shots in tied-second place after carding matching 69s at the Imperial Klub Golf.

Local prospects Benny Kasiadi and Ian Andrew were a further shot back in tied-fifth place alongside American Jeff Lai, Niall Turner of Ireland and South African Mathiam Keyser at the US$60,000 Asian Development Tour (ADT) event, which is the ninth stop on the ADT this year.

Title holder James Bowen of the United States will have to make up ground after carding a 75 to take a share of 48th place.

Having missed out on the opportunity to earn an Asian Tour card at the Qualifying School earlier this year, Munson decided to turn his attention to the ADT where he won his first victory in March and secured one other top-five result.

Currently ranked third on the ADT Order of Merit, Munson shot five birdies to kick start his campaign in Indonesia where he hopes to win a second victory on the burgeoning Tour which is the gateway to the premier Asian Tour.

“I played some solid golf. This course suits my game a lot. It’s good to be back on the ADT after a short break. I’ve been working on my game and it’s great to be playing well again after missing the cut in the previous tournament. Hopefully I can continue to do well over the next three days,” said the 27-year-old Munson.

Jackson, ranked 10th on the Order of Merit, kept chase for his first victory this season as he set his sights on making a move on the Merit list where the top five players at the end of the season will earn Asian Tour cards for 2015.

“I always try my best to win in every tournament I play. This week is no exception. I had a generally good round today. This week is the start of a series of events on the ADT. I hope to build up on my good form and secure a good result this week so that I can be in a good shape for the next few tournaments,” added Jackson.

Soewarno, who plays regularly on the domestic Tour, took advantage of the opportunity to play on the ADT this week and is hoping to continue his good run of form. The leading Indonesian stumbled with a double-bogey on the fourth but recovered swiftly with five birdies to put himself in contention after the first round of the Linc Group Jakarta Classic.

“My game was not too bad today. The wind got stronger in the afternoon but that didn’t really affect my game. I’m feeling pretty confident right now and I hope to keep up my good form,” said Soewarno.

This season, the ADT will reward the top five players on the final Order of Merit with playing rights for the 2015 Asian Tour season. Previously, the top-three players were offered Asian Tour cards since the ADT’s launch in 2010.

Modest George Gandranata Takes The Throne At The Indonesian Golf Tour At LotusLakes Golf Club

Karawang, May 9th, 2014 - George Gandranata put on a great game of golf and became the Champion of Indonesian Golf Tour at LotusLakes Golf Club. Not expecting to win, he played confidently and to his best ability, which is what George believes is the key to his success today.

George Gandranata with trophy and winner's cheque after winning the Indonesia Golf Tour at LotusLakes Golf Club. Picture: Fadil/OB Golf

“Golf is a ‘day by day’ game. One day you’re good, another day you play bad. I don’t have expectations for each of the tournaments I have played. All I need to do is make sure that I play well and produce a good score with every opportunity,” Said George.

“I want to thank PGTI and Jimmy Masrin who have created the opportunity for the local professional golfers to play more. I am sure that the more we play, we will be able to score better in the future. Of course thanks to all the sponsors such as Linc Group, and the host venue, LotusLakes Golf Club who prepared the course in superb condition, especially the greens that successfully caused headaches for us professional golfers. All was great and gave us more experience,” added George.

Kevin C. Akbar holds his trophy for Lowest Male Amateur at LotusLakes Golf Club. Picture: Fadil/OB Golf

George wins the tournament with a total score of even-par, 216 (70-73-73). Tailing him was amateur golfer, Kevin C. Akbar, who finished in second place and came in as the Lowest Male Amateur, with a total score of one-over-par, 217.

The tournament was another success for the Indonesian Golf Tour, thanks to Linc Group as the presenting partner, LotusLakes Golf Club as the host venue, PGTI as the sanctioning body and also OB Golf & Lifestyle Magazine as the promoter.

The next series of the Indonesian Golf Tour will be held at Padang Golf Modern, from June 10th – 12th June 2014. Be sure to mark your calendars and watch your favorite local professional golf player in action.

Leading scores after the final round of the Indonesian Golf Tour at LotusLakes Golf Club (A - denotes amateur):

216 - George Gandranata 70-73-73

217 - Kevin C Akbar (A) 74-71-72

218 - Bramantio Adi 77-72-69, Ian Andrew 75-72-71

221 - Rinaldi Adiyandono 78-71-72, Ilyassak 72-74-75

222 - Ari Safari (A) 78-73-71, Andik Mauludin 73-76-73

223 - Benita Y. Kasiadi 76-73-74

224 - Johannes Dermawan 77-75-72, Indra Hermawan 77-74-73, Abhi Sahari 72-77-75

Gandranata Stays On Top At Indonesian Golf Tour At LotusLakes Golf Club

Karawang, May 8th, 2014 - George Gandranata continues to lead the pack on the 2nd round of Indonesian Golf Tour played at LotusLakes Golf Club. Scoring a total of one-under-par (143), George managed to stay on the top of the leaderboard.

“My irons and chipping was not working well today. Thanks to my wedges I can save on my score. But overall my game is okay for today. My strategy for tomorrow will be the same. More fairways, more greens, and to score birdies on the par 5's. It is not an easy course. It’s hard to read the greens but we will see tomorrow”, said Gandranata.

“This is my first time playing at LotusLakes Golf Club. It’s a championship course. Its tricky, but there are several holes where you can attack. I enjoy playing here and really appreciate LotusLakes Golf Club for hosting the Indonesian Golf Tour,” added George.

Second place also continued to be occupied by an amateur player, Kevin C. Akbar, who successfully signed-in a total of one-over-par (145), whilst being chased by Ilyassak who sits in third place with a total of two-over-par (146).

With the cut at 17-over-par, it leaves 50 participants entering into the final round tomorrow. 10 out of 14 male amateurs who participated in the Indonesian Golf Tour have managed to survive the cut.

Leading scores after the second round of the Indonesia Golf Tour at LotusLakes Golf Club (A - denotes amateur):

143 - George Gandranata 70-73

145 - Kevin C Akbar (A) 74-71

146 - Ilyassak 72-74

147 - Ian Andrew 75-72, Maan Nasim 75-72

149 - Bramantio Adi 77-72, Rinaldi Adiyandono 78-71, Andik Mauludin 73-76, , Benny Kasiadi 76-73, Abhi Sahari 72 77

Talented Gandranata Outshines Top Stars At CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters

Jakarta, April 25 - Rising star George Gandranata of Indonesia outshone many of the tournament’s biggest names including Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand and France’s Victor Dubuisson by carding a two-under-par 70 in the second round of the US$750,000 CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters on Friday.

The 28-year-old compiled a two-day total of three-under-par 141 to emerge as the highest-ranked Indonesian in tied-23rd place, two shots ahead of Thongchai and Dubuisson, who took a share of 38th place after returning with rounds of 72 and 69 respectively at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club.

Gandranata is feeling upbeat about his chances at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters as he managed to make cut for the first time in two appearances.

“It’s the first time I made cut here at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters. I did not do well last year. I’m glad I rewrote history today. I came into the tournament hoping to make the cut. Now that I’ve achieved that, I really hope to see myself in contention tomorrow!” said Gandranata, who marked his card with five birdies against three bogeys.

Despite playing on home soil, Gandranata does not feel the pressure of having to play well in front of home crowd this week.

“I think playing on home soil actually helps my game. We don’t have lots of big tournaments here and I treasure every opportunity I get to play here. Playing at home makes me feel like there are a lot of people supporting me,” added Gandranata, who has been a regular player on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) since turning professional in 2012.

The second round of the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters was suspended at 5pm local time due to lightning threats on Friday.

Local amateur Fadhli Rahman Soetarso will be one of the 19 players to resume their second rounds at 6.45am on Saturday. Soetarso is currently the second-placed Indonesian on tied-47th. He is even-par through 11 holes.

Indonesia's top-ranked player Rory Hie had to retire at hole 16 because of a wrist injury.

Round three will not start before 8am tomorrow.

Scores of the Indonesian players after day 2 of the CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters being played at the par 72, 7340 Yards Royale Jakarta GC course (a - denotes amateur, leader at -10):

141 - George GANDRANATA 71-70

(Par) - Fadhli Rahman SOETARSO (A) 72 Par (11)

148 - Ramadhan ALWIE 76-72

149 - Fahmi REZA 77-72

150 - William SJAICHUDIN 76-74, Kurnia Herisiandy SANTOSO 75-75

(+6) - Jamel ONDO 78 Par (11)

151 - Denny A. WIJAYA 77-74, Jordan IRAWAN 74-77, Sarmilih 73-78

152 - Rinaldi ADIYANDONO 78-74

(+8) - Andik MAULUDIN 77 +3 (12)

153 - Tirto TAMARDI (A) 77-76

(+9) - Benny KASIADI 78 +3 (14)

(+10) - Johannes DERMAWAN 75 +7 (14), Bramantio ADI 81 +1 (13), Ilyasyak 79 +3 (10)

155 - Ian ANDREW 77-78

156 - Asep SAEFULLOH 81-75, Ade SEBUL 80-76

157 - Kevin C. AKBAR (A) 77-80, Junaidi IBRAHIM 81-76

167 - Naraajie RAMADHANPUTRA (A) 79-88

168 - Abhi SAHARI 84-84

         Rory HIE 76 RTD (16)

George Gandranata Spearheads Local Charge At CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters

Jakarta, April 24 - Indonesia’s George Gandranata kept alive the local hopes when he posted a one-under-par 71 to stay four shots back of first round leaders Nicholas Fung of Malaysia and Korean American Anthony Kang in tied-34th place at the US$750,000 CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters on Thursday.

The 28-year-old, who plays regularly on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) which is the Tour’s secondary circuit, fired three birdies against two bogeys to stay on track for a possible breakthrough win on home soil.

Gandranata was delighted with his solid round after riding on a hot putter which was the key for him at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club.

“I already have a plan on attacking this golf course according to my skills set and I must say it went well for me today. I think the key to playing well on this course is to putt well. You got to put the ball in the right place and you need to putt well to score well. The greens here are really sloppy,” said Gandranata.

Gandranata hopes to take advantage of his experience of playing on the ADT and make his impression at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters this week.

“Playing on the ADT has really helped my game. It has given me a lot of experience playing with the professionals out here. The competition is really good here and it gives you the opportunity to hone your game,” said Gandranata, who has been playing on the ADT since turning professional in 2012.

Local amateur Fadhli Rahaman Soetarso signed for a 72 while compatriot Sarmilih is tied on 61st after carding a 73.

Scores of the Indonesian players after round 1 of the CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters being played at the par 72, 7340 Yards Royale Jakarta GC course (a - denotes amateur, leaders at 67):

71 - George GANDRANATA

72 - Fadhli SOETARSO (a)

73 - SARMILIH

74 - Jordan IRAWAN

75 - Johannes DERMAWAN, Kurnia Herisian SANTOSO

76 - Rory HIE, Ramadhan ALWIE, William SJAICHUDIN

77 - Ian ANDREW, Andik MAULUDIN, Fahmi REZA, Denny A. WIJAYA, Kevin C. AKBAR (a), Tirto TAMARDI (a)

78 - Benny KASIADI, Jamel ONDO, Rinaldi ADIYANDONO

79 - Naraajie RAMADHANPUTRA (a), ILYASSYAK

80 - Ade SEBUL

81 - Junaidi Ibrahim, Bramantio ADI, Asep SAIFULLOH

85 - Abhi SAHARI

Andik Mauludin Claims Victory In Third Leg Of The Indonesian Golf Tour At Emeralda Golf Club

Jakarta, 3rd April 2014 - Andik Mauludin has claimed victory with a 241 score at the Citrasembilan Satu Golf Tournament at Emeralda Golf Club.

In the final round he shot a 70 to overtake George Gandranata (73), Asep Saefullah (75) and Jordan Irawan (73), who finished in second place and share of third respectively.

The IDR 200,000,000 event is the third in a series of thirteen events that are part of the Indonesian Golf Tour presented by Linc Group, sanctioned by PGTI (Professional Golf Tour Indonesia).

Andik Mauludin holding the trophy after winning the Citrasembilan Satu Golf Tournament

Play was suspended during the second round with play resuming the following day. Fortunately the weather held up and everyone managed to complete the 54 hole tournament with good results.

The next tournament on the Indonesian Golf Tour presented by Linc Group is scheduled from May 6th - 8th at LotusLakes Golf in Karawang.

Final scores after 3 rounds played at Emeralda Golf Club:

214 - Andik Mauludin 73-71-70

215 - George Gandranata 71-71-73

216 - Asep Saefulloh 71-70-75, Jordan Irawan 70-73-73

217 - Maan Nasim 70-75-72

218 - Benny Kasiadi 75-75-68

219 - Ilyassyak 72-74-73, Hardjito 76-71-72, Denny A. Wijaya 71-75-73

220 - William Sjaichuddin 75-74-71

George Gandranta And Andik Mauludin Only Local Players Making The Cut At Enjoy Jakarta Indonesia PGA Championship

AKARTA, March 28 - Korean Park Sang-hyun, Filipino Juvic Pagunsan and Japan’s Ryuko Tokimatsu shot matching eight-under-par 64s on Friday to share the lead after two rounds of the Enjoy Jakarta Indonesia PGA Championship, presented by Indonesia Port Corporation.

After opening with 67s, the trio are now 13-under around Damai Indah Golf’s 6,545-metre (7,160-yard) Bumi Serpong Damai course in pursuit of their first OneAsia or Japan Tour title as the U.S. $1 million tournament is co-sanctioned by both.

Japan’s Michio Matsumura (67) is a shot behind, while Ouyang Zheng eagled the last to grab sole fifth place at 11 under with a 67. Aussie Rhein Gibson (75) -- holder of the world record low score by a professional -- was at 10 under with Chinese teenager Li Haotong.

Park, who celebrated his son’s first birthday on Friday, was delighted with his effort despite feeling his driving was not up to scratch.

“My boy is one year old today so this is for him,” said 30-year-old, whose only blemish was a bogey on the fifth. “My target today was to make a birdie on every par five and I managed to do that. My putting was also very good, so I am happy.”

Pagunsan, a winner at this course in 2007, also credited a hot putter for his blistering round.

“The greens are very different from when I won here -- they go up and down a lot more -- but I managed to put it close and that was important today,” he said.

The runner-up at this event last year, Pagunsan said he has spent more time on his physical fitness this year in a bid to go one better.

“I am in much better shape this year,” the 35-year-old said. “I hope I can get the results to show for the work.”

Playing in the afternoon, Tokimatsu set up his great round with some devastating tee shots -- he has only missed one fairway in two days -- and thinks he can go even lower.

“I’m very pleased, but for the weekend I want to do better,” he said.

The round of the day belonged to Aussie rookie Jack Wilson who fired nine birdies in his career-best 63, to offset an opening-round 73.

“I hit it good yesterday but couldn't buy a putt,” he said. ”Today was one of those rounds that is out of the box. I hit it really good again, and my local caddie came up with some great reads -- which certainly helped in making the majority of my birdies.”

With the cut at minus three, headline act Y.E. Yang, Asia’s only Major winner, just squeezed in after a second-round 67 left him at four under.

Defending champion Choi Ho-sung, however, took an early flight home after his Friday 67 saw him finish two under for the tournament, while nothing went local hero Rory Hie’s way and he closed at plus four after rounds of 75 and 73.

The best of the local players was George Gandranata (67) who is at four under under, while overnight leader Gareth Paddison (74) of New Zealand was at minus six. Andik Mauludin is the only other local player who made the cut, squeezing into the weekend after a round of 74.

Scores after the second round of the Enjoy Jakarta Indonesia PGA Championship, presented by Indonesia Port Corporation

131 - PARK Sang-hyun (KOR) 67-64, Juvic PAGUNSAN (PHI) 67-64, Ryuko TOKIMATSU (JPN) 67-64

132 - Michio MATSUMURA (JPN) 65-67

133 - OUYANG Zheng (CHN) 66-67

134 - Rhein GIBSON (AUS) 69-65, LI Hao-tong (CHN) 67-67

135 - SONG Young-han (KOR) 69-66, Yoshikazu HAKU (KOR) 69-66, David SMAIL (NZL) 67-68, Kunihiro KAMII (JPN) 65-70, KIM Bi-o (KOR) 68-67, KIM Tae-hoon (KOR) 66-69, David McKENZIE (AUS) 65-70, KANG Sung-hoon (KOR) 67-68

Selected:

140 - George GANDRANATA (INA) 71-69

141 - Andik MAULUDIN (INA) 67-74

CUT

142 - Junaidi IBRAHIM (INA) 72-70

143 - Denny A. WIDJADYA (INA) 71 72, Asep SAEFULLOH (INA) 67-76

144 - Kurnia HERISIANDY SANTOSO (INA) 74-70

145 - Ian ANDREW (INA) 76-69

146 - Jordan IRAWAN (INA) 69-77

147 - William SJAICHUDIN (INA) 77-70, Ade SEBUL (INA) 74-73

148 - Rory HIE (INA) 75-73

149 - Bramantio ADI (INA) 71-78

150 - Rinaldi ADIYANDONO (INA) 77-73

151 - Jamal ONDO (INA) 74-77

152 - HARDJITO (INA) 75-77

153 - RUDIANTO (INA) 77-76, SARMILIH (INA) 79-74, ILYASSYAK (INA) 78-75, SANUSI (INA) 78-75

154 - Ramadhan ALWIE (INA) 78-76, Benny KASIADI (INA) 79-75, Asep CAPRIE (INA) 75-79

155 - Fahmi REZA (INA) 76-79

Kiwi Leads After FIrst Round Of The Enjoy Jakarta Indonesia PGA Championship

JAKARTA, March 27 - New Zealander Gareth Paddison bagged two eagles on his way to a brilliant eight-under-par 64 on Thursday to grab the clubhouse lead midway through the opening round of the Enjoy Jakarta Indonesia PGA Championship, presented by Indonesia Port Corporation.

The left-hander could have gone even lower if not for a bogey on his last hole -- the ninth -- but holds a one-stroke lead over Japan’s Kunihiro Kamii and Australian David McKenzie, with three others a shot further back.

The U.S. $1 million tournament at at Damai Indah Golf’s stunning Jack Nicklaus-designed Bumi Serpong Damai course is the season opener for both OneAsia and the Japan Golf Tour, with the winner grabbing a $180,000 slice of the purse.

Paddison has already shown some form this year having won on the PGA Tour of Australasia, but he was nevertheless surprised with his first-round effort.

“It was a bit out of left field, actually. I didn’t expect that of myself,” the 33-year-old said. ”I putted exceptionally well -- played really steady really -- and and all of a sudden you’re standing on the last hole at nine under. It was a pity about that last one.”

Paddison eagled the par five fifth and 18th in similar fashion, hitting driver and four iron to the green before draining putts of 20 and 35 feet respectively.

The Kiwi has been a professional for 12 years but has never won a tournament of this stature and is keen to take his game to the next level.

“I think I have made really big improvements recently thanks to a lot of work with my coach Dennis McDade,” he said. “I really want to step it up this year. I want big things to happen.”

McKenzie was also pleased with his effort on his first serious outing of the year after a bout of tendinitis.

“I played in the pro-am and didn’t think these sorts of scores were out there, but while the greens are very tricky, if you get it in the right place you can leave yourself with some make-able putts,” he said.

Kamii is also looking for his first win on a top-tier tour and could have had a share of the lead if not for a costly bogey on the relatively easy par-five 18th after putting his tee shot in the water.

“I am a bit angry about that,” said the 32-year-old from Osaka, “but I am still happy with my round.”

Several OneAsia champions kept themselves well in the hunt with excellent first rounds including Michael Hendry (67), four-time winner Liang Wenchong (67), and 2012 Order of Merit winner Kim Bi-o (68) -- who triple-bogeyed the eighth.

China’s Ouyang Zheng (66) and Li Haotong (67) also put in a great effort, while Prom Meesawat was top of the Thai contingent with a 69.

Two local players, Asep Saefulloh and Andik Mauludin, put in good rounds, with both carding a round of 67 which puts them in a share of 8th place. Jordan Irawan is 2 shots further back in a tie for 34th, with Danny A. Wdjajaya, Bramantio Adi and George Gandranata the only other local players under par after round 1.

The collaboration between OneAsia and the Japan Tour means the Enjoy Jakarta Indonesia PGA Championship, presented by the Indonesia Port Corporation, had drawn one of the strongest fields ever assembled in the world’s fourth most populous nation -- headlined by Major winner Y.E. Yang, who was in the afternoon session.

Scores after the first round of the Enjoy Jakarta Indonesia PGA Championship, presented by Indonesia Port Corporation:

64 - Gareth PADDISON (NZL)

65 - Kunihiro KAMII (JPN), David McKENZIE (AUS), Michio MATSUMURA (JPN)

66 - Daisuke KATAOKA (JPN), KIM Tae-hoon (KOR), OUYANG Zheng (CHN)

67 - Ryuko TOKIMATSU (JPN), LI Hao-tong (CHN), KIM Gi-whan (KOR), Michael HENDRY (NZL), David SMAIL (NZL), Asep SAEFULLOH (INA), KANG Sung-hoon (KOR), PARK Sang-hyun (KOR), Andik MAULUDIN (INA) JANG Ik-jae (KOR), Juvic PAGUNSAN (PHI), MAENG Dong-seop (KOR), JANG Dong-kyu (KOR)

Selected:

69 - Jordan IRAWAN (INA)

71 - Denny A. WIDJADYA (INA), Bramantio ADI (INA), George GANDRANATA (INA)

72 - Junaidi IBRAHIM (INA)

74 - Ade SEBUL (INA), Jamel ONDO (INA), Kurnia HERISIANDY SANTOSO (INA)

75 - HARDJITO (INA), Asep CAPRIE (INA), Rory HIE (INA)

76 - Ian ANDREW (INA), Fahmi REZA (INA)

77 - Rinaldi ADIYANDONO (INA), RUDIANTO (INA), William SJAICHUDIN (INA)

78 - SANUSI (INA), Ramadhan ALWIE (INA), ILYASSYAK (INA)

79 - Benny KASIADI (INA), SARMILIH (INA)

DSQ - ABRAHAMSYAH (INA)

George Gandranata Misses Win By One Shot, Jordan Irawan Tenth At Jakarta Invitational

Jakarta, January 11 - Thailand’s Pavit Tangkamolprasert savored a memorable week at the inaugural Linc Group Jakarta Invitational when he shot a one-under-par 70 to claim a maiden Asian Development Tour (ADT) victory on Saturday.

American James Bowen, Malaysia’s Iain Steel and Canadian Lindsay Renolds were also rewarded with 2014 Asian Tour cards after finishing inside the top-four of the final 2013 ADT Order of Merit, topped by Malaysia’s Nicholas Fung, who had already secured his card through the Asian Tour’s Order of Merit.

Indonesia'stop player Rory Hie (72) finished in 8th position, while Indonesian amateur Jordan Irawan managed to get back in a share of tenth place with a final round 71.

Pavit, one of the most promising stars to emerge from Thailand, compiled a four-day total of nine-under-par 275 for a one-shot victory over Japan’s Mitsuhiko Hashizume and joint overnight leader, George Gandranata of Indonesia. They closed with rounds of 68 and 71 respectively at the Jababeka Golf and Country Club.

England’s Grant Jackson, who needed a victory to break into top four on the ADT merit list, settled for fourth on 277 while Chan Shih-chang of Chinese Taipei battled to a 69 to finish fifth at the US$60,000 Asian Development Tour (ADT) event, which is the season finale for the 2013 ADT schedule.

Pavit, who turned professional in 2007, reveled in delight after clinching his first professional win outside of Thailand. The victory also moved him up to seventh on the final ADT rankings after winning US$10,500 and earning six Official World Golf Ranking points.

“I never thought I could win. It is my first professional win outside of Thailand. George played really well this week. I think I was just luckier than him. My three birdies in the front nine gave me an advantage,” said the 24-year-old.

“My game is good right now. I hope I can play well at the King’s Cup Golf Hua Hin (on the Asian Tour) next week as well. If I can get a good finish, I would not have to go to Qualifying School. I’m looking forward to it and we will see how it goes,” added Pavit.

Despite missing out on a win, Gandranata remained optimistic that his first career victory will come soon. This week’s event has prepared him for the Asian Tour Qualifying School in Thailand next month.

“It was a good week for me. This is my first time being in the lead on the ADT. I stuck to my plan all week. I only made three bogeys in total so I’m happy with how I played. I could’ve done a lot of things better but this would be a good experience for me,” said the 27-year-old, who traded two birdies against two bogeys today.

After a season long battle on the burgeoning ADT, Bowen, Steel and Renolds are relishing the opportunity of playing on the region’s premier Tour.

Bowen compiled a season’s haul of US$39,824 to finish second on the Order of Merit and hopes the experience of playing on the ADT will prepare him for tough test against the Asian Tour stars in the new season.

“The ADT has been a great stepping stone for me. I gained world ranking points and it helped put me on the world map as well. It has been great playing on the ADT in 2013. I’m really excited now that I’ve got my card. I can’t wait to play on the Asian Tour,” said Bowen, who claimed two victories on the ADT in 2013.

Malaysia’s Steel, who finished tied 33rd at the Linc Group Jakarta Invitational, was delighted to get his Asian Tour career back on track after losing his Tour card two seasons ago.

“This is a second chance for me. I feel really good getting back to where I belong after missing out on the card for two years. I’m looking forward to get back on the Asian Tour. The ADT has been a great platform for me to sharpen my game,” said Steel.

Steel, who claimed two consecutive wins on the ADT in 2013, claimed third place on the Order of Merit with total earnings of US$37,135 while Renolds settled for fourth with US$35,975.

It has been a nervous week for Renolds, who carded a final round 74 to tie for 25th position. He could have missed the Asian Tour card for the second consecutive year if Jackson had won this week.

“It was a really close one for me. I am just glad I managed to keep my card. The ADT has served as a platform for me to practice my game. I had a great experience playing on the ADT for the last two years,” said the Canadian, who enjoyed a relatively good season with seven top-10 finishes to get to where he is on the merit list despite not claiming any wins.

The ADT was launched in 2010 with five tournaments before growing to eight in 2011 and 13 in 2012. This week’s final event was the 16th leg of the season.

Leading final round scores:

275 - Pavit TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 69 66 70 70

276 - Mitsuhiko HASHIZUME (JPN) 68 70 70 68, George GANDRANATA (INA) 66 68 71 71

277 - Grant JACKSON (ENG) 69 72 67 69

278 - CHAN Shih-chang (TPE) 71 68 70 69

279 - Jack MUNRO (AUS) 68 70 71 70

282 - Anthony KANG (USA) 73 71 69 69

284 - Rory HIE (INA) 70 71 71 72

285 - James BOWEN (USA) 75 68 70 72

288 - Wolmer MURILLO (VEN) 75 72 72 69, Jordan IRAWAN (A) (INA) 72 71 74 71, Jake STIRLING (AUS) 72 71 73 72

Selected:

289 - Junaidi IBRAHIM (INA) 72 74 72 71

290 - Ian ANDREW (INA) 72 73 74 71, Benny KASIADI (INA) 75 71 71 73, William SJAICHUDIN (INA) 75 69 71 75

292 - Denny A. WIJAYA (INA) 73 71 75 73, Ilyasyak (INA) 70 75 74 73

293 - Maan NASIM (INA) 71 71 74 77

294 - Jamel ONDO (INA) 76 71 71 76

295 - Andik MAULUDIN (INA) 70 80 71 74

296 - Kevin C. AKBAR (A) (INA) 77 77 72 70

298 = Ramadhan ALWIE (INA) 75 74 74 75

299 - Nicholas SMITS (A) (NED) 78 70 72 79, Danny MASRIN (A) (USA) 74 74 77 74, Asep SAEFULLOH (INA) 77 76 72 74

300 - Kurnia Herisiandy SANTOSO (INA) 76 76 72 76

302 - Hardjito (INA) 74 73 77 78, Ade SEBUL (INA) 73 74 77 78, Asep CAPRIE (INA) 78 74 73 77

303 - S SANUSI (INA) 77 72 76 78, Rinaldi ADIYANDONO (INA) 78 74 77 74

304 - SIM Min Sub (A) (INA) 72 80 78 74

310 = Joeh SEIK (A) (INA) 75 79 80 76

311 - Bramantio ADI (INA) 73 75 81 82, Sarmilih (INA) 77 76 79 79