BALI, Indonesia - Bali's evolution into a legitimate international golf destination gained some remarkable new standing last weekend with the opening of Bukit Pandawa Golf & Country Club, the fifth golf venue on the Island of the Gods and the first 18-hole, par-3 championship course in Indonesia.
Designed by Bob Moore of California-based JMP Golf Design Group and managed by AccorHotels, Bukit Pandawa G&CC is also the first phase of an unprecedented hospitality project taking shape on Bali's southern coastline, where the club's ownership group, luxury resort developer PT Bali Ragawisata (BRW), is planning to add hotels and residences managed by world-renowned brands Mandarin Oriental, Waldorf Astoria and Swissôtel and a soon-to-be-announced company that has long been synonymous with the finest things in life.
"We're setting the stage for everything that's to come," said Stephen Banks, general manager of Bukit Pandawa G&CC. "We're equal parts groundbreaking, eye-popping and extraordinary."
To drive home the level of excellence golfers can expect at Bukit Pandawa G&CC, the course partnered with iconic automaker BMW — which is celebrating its centennial anniversary this year — to hold a novel, grand opening tournament on Oct. 8 for 160 invited players, each of whom had 18 chances to win a range of BMW-brand vehicles.
"I'm not sure there's ever been a tournament where at each hole you could win a car — let alone a premium car — with an ace," said Djie Tjian An, president/director of BRW. "Even though we didn't see a hole-in-one, everyone sure had fun trying."
The tournament was followed by a surprise unveiling of the futuristic BMW i8 — a cutting-edge hybrid supercar — that was celebrated with a champagne toast sponsored by French multinational luxury good conglomerate LVMH.
"Throughout its 100-year history, the BMW Group has constantly reinvented itself," said Karen Lim, president/director of BMW Group Indonesia. "The i8, the most progressive sports car in the world, is testament of that. And Bukit Pandawa, with its immaculate playing surface, is the perfect platform on which to roll out such a revolutionary driving machine."
Located on a spectacular limestone clifftop overlooking the world-famous surf breaks of Bukit Peninsula, AccorHotels' flagship course in Asia offers 18 exquisite par-3 holes ranging from 117 to 244 yards in length.
From the back tees, it plays 3,027 yards, a few hundred yards longer than lauded Turtle Hill Golf Club at Fairmont Southampton in Bermuda, which ranks among GOLF Magazine USA's top 10 par-3 courses in the world.
Some holes at Bukit Pandawa G&CC are back-dropped by the Indian Ocean. Others are accented by waterfalls or terraced rice paddies. All are subject to the wind.
"It can be a real test," said Banks, a former playing professional from Manchester, England "When the breeze is up — and it almost always is — there's a good chance you'll use every club in the bag. Even driver."
One standout hole is the 148-yard 13th, which is framed by three bunkers and features curved stone walls in the foreground and a traditional Balinese kul-kul tower in the background.
Given how short the par-54 layout is compared to standard 18-hole setups, Djie Tjian An anticipates it will be especially popular with short-stay visitors and families.
"So often, a golfer might pass on the opportunity to play on vacation or during a business trip because it can burn a large portion of the day," he said. "But here, that's not an issue. A round takes no more than a couple hours to complete."
In designing Bukit Pandawa G&CC, Moore, whose firm is responsible for championship-caliber designs all over the world including the acclaimed Royale Jakarta Golf Club in Indonesia's capital, embraced the contours and characteristics of a site that was rife with ridge lines, architectural ruins and sea views. Indeed, the ocean is visible from 15 holes.
To round out the total golf experience at Bukit Pandawa G&CC and provide visitors a feeling of rapture when they arrive, a 3,000-square-meter clubhouse inspired by the ancient temples and towers of central Bali has been constructed.
Conceived by accomplished architects Antony Liu and Ferry Ridwan from StudioTonTon in Jakarta, the imaginative, twin-block structure was designed to blend into its natural surroundings through the liberal implementation of local materials (such as stone and wood), native grasses and, above all, water, which flows seamlessly through many of the building's spaces.
"We're extremely proud of this project," said Liu, who is one of Indonesia's foremost modern tropical architects. "It perfectly harnesses what's so great about the location — the views — and it has so much character."
That includes the singular facility's signature component, the rooftop restaurant, which overlooks the ocean and course and features al fresco dining and lounge areas that ooze exotic elegance.
Showing posts with label Royale Jakarta. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Royale Jakarta. Show all posts
Wednesday, October 12, 2016
Monday, October 10, 2016
Maiden Asian Tour Victory For Poom Saksansin At BNI Indonesian Masters Presented By Zurich
Jakarta, October 9 - Baby-faced Poom Saksansin of Thailand cruised to a comfortable five-shot victory when he closed with a five-under-par 67 to win his first Asian Tour title at the BNI Indonesian Masters presented by Zurich on Sunday.
The 23-year-old held a two-shot lead at the start of the day and stayed ahead of the chasing pack by shooting six birdies against one bogey to finish on 18-under-par 270 at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club.
Thai teenagers Phachara Khongwatmai (68) and Suradit Yongcharoenchai (68), both aged at 17 years old, and Japan’s Masahiro Kawamura (70) settled for tied second place at the US$750,000 Asian Tour event.
India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar, who won his sixth Asian Tour title last week, enjoyed another solid result by finishing in fifth place following a round of 67. He ended his campaign six shots back from the champion.
Poom, who won his first Asian Development Tour (ADT) title in Malaysia last year, showed no signs of nerves when he made the turn in 34 before tightening his grip with three straight birdies on holes 10, 11 and 12.
Dropping only two shots in 72 holes, Poom played solid golf throughout the week and stayed calm under pressure when a host of players briefly threatened his lead early in the round.
Poom Saksansin receiving the trophy from Indonesia's Vice President Jusuf Kalla, witnessed by Achmad Baiquni, President Director of BNI - Photo credit Collin/IMPL
http://indogolfnews.blogspot.co.id/2016/10/maiden-asian-tour-victory-for-poom.html “It feels great to be a champion. I just tried not to make bogeys today. Anything in the red numbers was good enough for me. Honestly, I was only hoping to make enough money to keep my Asian Tour card. This victory exceeded my expectations.
“I didn’t get into trouble in the first place so that’s why I only dropped two shots this week. My putting really saved me as well. My family will be very happy that I won, it also proves that I can play among the best players,” said Poom.
The victory earned him US$135,000, which moved him from 101st to 21st position on the Asian Tour Order of Merit.
“This win opens up so many doors and opportunities for me. I get to play in the big events now and I’m really looking forward to it. There’s still a lot of room for improvement for me and before I step up in the big events, I need to work even harder on my game,” added Poom.
Phachara, who secured his third top-five result in three weeks, got off to a fast start, holing four birdies in nine holes before making eight straight pars. He tapped in for birdie on the last to continue his superb form.
“I’m feeling very good but my putting on the back nine is very bad. I hit such good iron shots. I think I hit it near the pin on seven holes. I just couldn’t make my birdie putts until the last hole. I know Poom is playing very well and he is such a good player. I’m not surprised he won. I’m happy he won,” said Phachara.
The talented Suradit was delighted to finish inside the top-five in his debut appearance at the BNI Indonesian Masters as the result earned him a spot in the Venetian Macao Open on the Asian Tour next week. “I was aiming for a top-five finish this week so I can play in Macao next week. I didn’t expect myself to play so well. Being the last man to get in to the tournament, I didn’t have any expectations. This is my first time playing on this course so I am happy with my result,” he said.
28-year-old Bhullar found 14 fairways and 18 greens in regulation but was let down by a cold putter where he negotiated the greens in 31 putts. “A 62 was definitely out there. I’m pretty happy the way I played after winning last week. This course is one of my favorites on the Asian Tour. I’m glad that I was in contention during the week. There’s a lot of positives I can take out from the last two weeks,” said Bhullar.
Of the local players Rory Hie (71) took top honors finishing in a tie for 46th with a final score of 3-under. At one point he was at -5, but successive bogeys on holes 5 and 6 (for him the second nine) saw him drop back in the field.
Danny Masrin put in strong final round 68 to finish T52 at 287, surpassing Kurnia Herisiandy who was at -4 for the day after 11 holes, but then dropped 5 shots in 6 holes. A birdie on the last hole got him back to par for the day and 1 over for the tournament.
Nasin Surachman completed his final round in 74 strokes to finish 67th.
Scores after round 4 of the BNI Indonesian Masters being played at the par 72, 7340 Yards Royale Jakarta GC course:
270 - Poom SAKSANSIN (THA) 69-69-65-67
275 - Phachara KHONGWATMAI (THA) 67-71-69-68, Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA) 67-74-66-68, Masahiro KAWAMURA (JPN) 66-71-68-70
276 - Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND) 66-73-70-67. 277 - Chikkarangappa S. (IND) 70-67-73-67, LEE Chieh-Po (TPE) 71-70-68-68
278 - Casey O'TOOLE (USA) 69-69-73-67, Marcus FRASER (AUS) 69-67-70-72, Thongchai JAIDEE (THA) 68-69-69-72, Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS) 68-68-69-73
Indonesian players:
285 - Rory HIE 74-70-70-71
287 - Danny MASRIN 72-72-75-68
289 - Kurnia HERISIANDY 71-71-75-72
295 - Nasin SURACHMAN 73-71-77-74
The 23-year-old held a two-shot lead at the start of the day and stayed ahead of the chasing pack by shooting six birdies against one bogey to finish on 18-under-par 270 at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club.
Thai teenagers Phachara Khongwatmai (68) and Suradit Yongcharoenchai (68), both aged at 17 years old, and Japan’s Masahiro Kawamura (70) settled for tied second place at the US$750,000 Asian Tour event.
India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar, who won his sixth Asian Tour title last week, enjoyed another solid result by finishing in fifth place following a round of 67. He ended his campaign six shots back from the champion.
Poom, who won his first Asian Development Tour (ADT) title in Malaysia last year, showed no signs of nerves when he made the turn in 34 before tightening his grip with three straight birdies on holes 10, 11 and 12.
Dropping only two shots in 72 holes, Poom played solid golf throughout the week and stayed calm under pressure when a host of players briefly threatened his lead early in the round.
http://indogolfnews.blogspot.co.id/2016/10/maiden-asian-tour-victory-for-poom.html “It feels great to be a champion. I just tried not to make bogeys today. Anything in the red numbers was good enough for me. Honestly, I was only hoping to make enough money to keep my Asian Tour card. This victory exceeded my expectations.
“I didn’t get into trouble in the first place so that’s why I only dropped two shots this week. My putting really saved me as well. My family will be very happy that I won, it also proves that I can play among the best players,” said Poom.
The victory earned him US$135,000, which moved him from 101st to 21st position on the Asian Tour Order of Merit.
“This win opens up so many doors and opportunities for me. I get to play in the big events now and I’m really looking forward to it. There’s still a lot of room for improvement for me and before I step up in the big events, I need to work even harder on my game,” added Poom.
Phachara, who secured his third top-five result in three weeks, got off to a fast start, holing four birdies in nine holes before making eight straight pars. He tapped in for birdie on the last to continue his superb form.
“I’m feeling very good but my putting on the back nine is very bad. I hit such good iron shots. I think I hit it near the pin on seven holes. I just couldn’t make my birdie putts until the last hole. I know Poom is playing very well and he is such a good player. I’m not surprised he won. I’m happy he won,” said Phachara.
The talented Suradit was delighted to finish inside the top-five in his debut appearance at the BNI Indonesian Masters as the result earned him a spot in the Venetian Macao Open on the Asian Tour next week. “I was aiming for a top-five finish this week so I can play in Macao next week. I didn’t expect myself to play so well. Being the last man to get in to the tournament, I didn’t have any expectations. This is my first time playing on this course so I am happy with my result,” he said.
28-year-old Bhullar found 14 fairways and 18 greens in regulation but was let down by a cold putter where he negotiated the greens in 31 putts. “A 62 was definitely out there. I’m pretty happy the way I played after winning last week. This course is one of my favorites on the Asian Tour. I’m glad that I was in contention during the week. There’s a lot of positives I can take out from the last two weeks,” said Bhullar.
Of the local players Rory Hie (71) took top honors finishing in a tie for 46th with a final score of 3-under. At one point he was at -5, but successive bogeys on holes 5 and 6 (for him the second nine) saw him drop back in the field.
Danny Masrin put in strong final round 68 to finish T52 at 287, surpassing Kurnia Herisiandy who was at -4 for the day after 11 holes, but then dropped 5 shots in 6 holes. A birdie on the last hole got him back to par for the day and 1 over for the tournament.
Nasin Surachman completed his final round in 74 strokes to finish 67th.
Scores after round 4 of the BNI Indonesian Masters being played at the par 72, 7340 Yards Royale Jakarta GC course:
270 - Poom SAKSANSIN (THA) 69-69-65-67
275 - Phachara KHONGWATMAI (THA) 67-71-69-68, Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA) 67-74-66-68, Masahiro KAWAMURA (JPN) 66-71-68-70
276 - Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND) 66-73-70-67. 277 - Chikkarangappa S. (IND) 70-67-73-67, LEE Chieh-Po (TPE) 71-70-68-68
278 - Casey O'TOOLE (USA) 69-69-73-67, Marcus FRASER (AUS) 69-67-70-72, Thongchai JAIDEE (THA) 68-69-69-72, Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS) 68-68-69-73
Indonesian players:
285 - Rory HIE 74-70-70-71
287 - Danny MASRIN 72-72-75-68
289 - Kurnia HERISIANDY 71-71-75-72
295 - Nasin SURACHMAN 73-71-77-74
Saturday, October 8, 2016
Four Local Players In Final Rounds Of The BNI Indonesian Masters Presented By Zurich
Jakarta, October 8 - In a first in the history of the Indonesian Masters, four local players made the cut to challenge for the prize money at hand.
As the second round was suspended due to darkness Friday evening, several players had to finish their rounds Saturday morning. Among them were local hopefuls Rory Hie, Danny Masrin and Nasin Surachman. Closing their rounds in 70, 72 and 71 strokes respectively, all three were at even par 144 after 2 rounds, just enough to make the cut and join Kurnia Herisiandy, who had finished Friday with a total of 142, for weekend play.
Having four local players in the weekend marks a first for this tournament, who before this year had only seen a single local player making the cut, in its first edition.
Third round fortunes for the four were mixed, with Rory (70) slowly climbing the leaderboard, while Kurnia (75), Danny (75) and Nasin (77) were moving in opposite direction.
Rory Hie - photo: Asian Tour
Baby-faced Poom Saksansin of Thailand fired a flawless seven-under-par 65 to seize the third round lead at the BNI Indonesian Masters presented by Zurich on Saturday. The 23-year-old Poom made a surprise charge up the leaderboard to lead by two shots on 13-under-par 203 from Japan’s Masahiro Kawamura (68) and Kalem Richardson of Australia (69) at the US$750,000 Asian Tour event.
Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand, a three-time Asian Tour number one, birdied the closing two holes for a 69 to tie in fourth place on 206 alongside Marcus Fraser (70) of Australia, who needs a victory at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club to overtake Scott Hend on the Order of Merit.
Poom will enter the final round as the leader for only the second time in his career on the Asian Tour after leading in the 2014 Queen’s Cup in Thailand before finishing second. With numerous players breathing down his neck, Poom hopes to put his experience of playing on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) to good use as he chases for a first Asian Tour victory.
“I wanted to shoot under-par and not make any trouble. On the first hole I got into trouble but I saved par from 15 feet. I felt lucky after that. I only tried to make par but if I had a birdie chance, I would go for it and it worked,” said Poom, a one-time winner on the ADT. “After I was five-under, I felt like it would be my day so I started playing more aggressively. This is my second time in the last group on the Asian Tour. I will try not to be nervous on the final day. I just want to give myself a chance on the final day,” said the Thai.
After finishing third in the event last year, Richardson charged into contention again with two birdies and one eagle against one bogey. After almost quitting the game earlier this year, the Australian is now focused on winning his first Asian Tour title.
“Golf is the hardest game in the world really. It is a tough lifestyle but it is great to be playing golf for a living. I tried to remember that and I’m glad to be here playing golf. I feel like I’m playing good now."
“It will be massive if I do win. It will be a big day tomorrow. I’ll just focus on each shot and not get carried away,” said Richardson.
The 23-year-old Kawamura, who won his first Asian Tour title in 2013, traded six birdies against two bogeys as he heads into the final 18 holes, two shots back of Poom. “I am happy with where I stand right now. I am definitely aiming for a win tomorrow. I look forward to playing in the final group again. I will keep things the same tomorrow. Nothing changes,” said Kawamura.
Thongchai double bogeyed the fourth hole but steadied ship with one birdie and one eagle before the turn. He added another birdie on hole 10 and slipped back with a bogey on 15 before charging home with two closing birdies.
“I played really well on the last two holes. I hit two good irons there. I know the conditions are tough but finishing well on the last few holes is key here. I’m three shots behind so I have a chance tomorrow,” said Thongchai, who is aiming for a 14th Asian Tour title.
Scores after round 3 of the BNI Indonesian Masters being played at the par 72, 7340 Yards Royale Jakarta GC course:
203 - Poom SAKSANSIN (THA) 69-69-65
205 - Masahiro KAWAMURA (JPN) 66-71-68, Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS) 68-68-69. 206 - Thongchai JAIDEE (THA) 68-69-69, Marcus FRASER (AUS) 69-67-70
207 - Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA) 67-74-66, Namchok TANTIPOKHAKUL (THA) 68-72-67, Phachara KHONGWATMAI (THA) 67-71-69
208 - Tom JOHNSON (USA) 72-68-68, Danthai BOONMA (THA) 70-69-69, LIU Yan-wei (CHN) 68-70-70, Antonio LASCUNA (PHI) 69-69-70
Indonesian players:
214 - Rory HIE 74-70-70
217 - Kurnia HERISIANDY 71-71-75
219 - Danny MASRIN 72-72-75
221 - Nasin SURACHMAN 73-71-77
As the second round was suspended due to darkness Friday evening, several players had to finish their rounds Saturday morning. Among them were local hopefuls Rory Hie, Danny Masrin and Nasin Surachman. Closing their rounds in 70, 72 and 71 strokes respectively, all three were at even par 144 after 2 rounds, just enough to make the cut and join Kurnia Herisiandy, who had finished Friday with a total of 142, for weekend play.
Having four local players in the weekend marks a first for this tournament, who before this year had only seen a single local player making the cut, in its first edition.
Third round fortunes for the four were mixed, with Rory (70) slowly climbing the leaderboard, while Kurnia (75), Danny (75) and Nasin (77) were moving in opposite direction.
Baby-faced Poom Saksansin of Thailand fired a flawless seven-under-par 65 to seize the third round lead at the BNI Indonesian Masters presented by Zurich on Saturday. The 23-year-old Poom made a surprise charge up the leaderboard to lead by two shots on 13-under-par 203 from Japan’s Masahiro Kawamura (68) and Kalem Richardson of Australia (69) at the US$750,000 Asian Tour event.
Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand, a three-time Asian Tour number one, birdied the closing two holes for a 69 to tie in fourth place on 206 alongside Marcus Fraser (70) of Australia, who needs a victory at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club to overtake Scott Hend on the Order of Merit.
Poom will enter the final round as the leader for only the second time in his career on the Asian Tour after leading in the 2014 Queen’s Cup in Thailand before finishing second. With numerous players breathing down his neck, Poom hopes to put his experience of playing on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) to good use as he chases for a first Asian Tour victory.
“I wanted to shoot under-par and not make any trouble. On the first hole I got into trouble but I saved par from 15 feet. I felt lucky after that. I only tried to make par but if I had a birdie chance, I would go for it and it worked,” said Poom, a one-time winner on the ADT. “After I was five-under, I felt like it would be my day so I started playing more aggressively. This is my second time in the last group on the Asian Tour. I will try not to be nervous on the final day. I just want to give myself a chance on the final day,” said the Thai.
After finishing third in the event last year, Richardson charged into contention again with two birdies and one eagle against one bogey. After almost quitting the game earlier this year, the Australian is now focused on winning his first Asian Tour title.
“Golf is the hardest game in the world really. It is a tough lifestyle but it is great to be playing golf for a living. I tried to remember that and I’m glad to be here playing golf. I feel like I’m playing good now."
“It will be massive if I do win. It will be a big day tomorrow. I’ll just focus on each shot and not get carried away,” said Richardson.
The 23-year-old Kawamura, who won his first Asian Tour title in 2013, traded six birdies against two bogeys as he heads into the final 18 holes, two shots back of Poom. “I am happy with where I stand right now. I am definitely aiming for a win tomorrow. I look forward to playing in the final group again. I will keep things the same tomorrow. Nothing changes,” said Kawamura.
Thongchai double bogeyed the fourth hole but steadied ship with one birdie and one eagle before the turn. He added another birdie on hole 10 and slipped back with a bogey on 15 before charging home with two closing birdies.
“I played really well on the last two holes. I hit two good irons there. I know the conditions are tough but finishing well on the last few holes is key here. I’m three shots behind so I have a chance tomorrow,” said Thongchai, who is aiming for a 14th Asian Tour title.
Scores after round 3 of the BNI Indonesian Masters being played at the par 72, 7340 Yards Royale Jakarta GC course:
203 - Poom SAKSANSIN (THA) 69-69-65
205 - Masahiro KAWAMURA (JPN) 66-71-68, Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS) 68-68-69. 206 - Thongchai JAIDEE (THA) 68-69-69, Marcus FRASER (AUS) 69-67-70
207 - Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA) 67-74-66, Namchok TANTIPOKHAKUL (THA) 68-72-67, Phachara KHONGWATMAI (THA) 67-71-69
208 - Tom JOHNSON (USA) 72-68-68, Danthai BOONMA (THA) 70-69-69, LIU Yan-wei (CHN) 68-70-70, Antonio LASCUNA (PHI) 69-69-70
Indonesian players:
214 - Rory HIE 74-70-70
217 - Kurnia HERISIANDY 71-71-75
219 - Danny MASRIN 72-72-75
221 - Nasin SURACHMAN 73-71-77
Australians Fraser & Richardson Share Clubhouse Lead At BNI Indonesian Masters Present
Jakarta, October 7 2016 - Marcus Fraser of Australia birdied the closing two holes to share the second round clubhouse lead with countryman Kalem Richardson in the weather-interrupted BNI Indonesian Masters presented by Zurich on Friday. Fraser, ranked second on the Order of Merit, finished in the morning session with seven birdies against two bogeys for a five-under-par 67 tie at the top alongside Richardson (68) on eight-under-par 136 at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club.
The halfway stage of the US$750,000 Asian Tour event was suspended for the day at 5.45 pm due to fading light as a total of 27 players will return to resume their rounds at 6.30am on Saturday.
Play was suspended for an hour due to lightning threats in the afternoon. Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand dropped two shots in near darkness to finish the round on a 69 to trail by one alongside Tirawat Kaewsiribandit (68), S. Chikkarangappa (67) of India and co-overnight leader Masahiro Kawamura (71) of Japan.
Fraser, who needs a victory this week to overtake Scott Hend on the Order of Merit, was delighted to return to form and build on his two-day momentum. After finding 16 greens, the Australian was held back by a cold putter where he made 29 putts.
“My game was pretty steady. I felt like I played pretty similar to what I did yesterday. I just had one poor drive on 17. That was a terrible golf shot and I made a bogey. Other than that it was steady all day. Hopefully I can keep building on the score I’m on and keep playing well. Hopefully I can make some putts,” said Fraser.
After struggling with a knee injury earlier this year, Richardson, aiming for a first Asian Tour victory, stayed in the moment and was rewarded with a share of the lead. “I’ve been struggling a little bit with the game. It was nice to get through a couple of challenges today and stay in the moment. I’ve been getting carried away and that’s been costing me,” said the Australian. “My left knee was inflamed (from cycling) and I’ve been getting a lot of treatment from the staff here and managing it myself. It is feeling a lot better and I’ve not had any dramas in the last few weeks,” added Richardson.
Ranked 44th in the world, Thongchai, the only player to win three Order of Merit crowns, continued his rich vein of form after finishing inside the top-10 in Korea last week. He charged into contention with a solid round and was forced to finish the last hole as nightfall landed over the Royale Jakarta course to avoid an early morning call on Saturday.
“We rushed in the last two holes because we didn’t want to come back early tomorrow. I played very well and I have no complaints with the round. At least now I know I will have some rest and have a chance at the weekend,” said Thongchai.
With two top-10 results on the Asian Tour and a victory on the local circuit, the confident Chikkarangappa charged up the leaderboard with a solid homeward nine which included four birdies. “I’ve been going through positive weeks. It is not only this week. I’ve been following up on my solid performances and I’m really confident with how things are going. Hopefully I can do something this week."
“It feels like a home tour this week. Anirban (Lahiri) is here and we did some work on the range and helping each other. I have positive energy when he is around me because I get the best advice from him,” said the Indian, who is close friends with Lahiri.
Scores after round 2 of the BNI Indonesian Masters being played at the par 72, 7340 Yards Royale Jakarta GC course (am - denotes amateur):
136 - Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS) 68-68, Marcus FRASER (AUS) 69-67
137 - Tirawat KAEWSIRIBANDIT (THA) 69-68, Masahiro KAWAMURA (JPN) 66-71, Chikkarangappa S. (IND) 70-67, Thongchai JAIDEE (THA) 68-69
138 - Jeev Milkha SINGH (IND) 69-69, Phachara KHONGWATMAI (THA) 67-71, Casey O'TOOLE (USA) 69-69, Antonio LASCUNA (PHI) 69-69, Javi COLOMO (ESP) 69-69, LIU Yan-wei (CHN) 68-70, Poom SAKSANSIN (THA) 69-69
Selected Indonesian players:
(-2) - Kurnia HERISIANDY 71-14*
(-1) - Danny MASRIN 72-16, Rory HIE 74-15
144 - Nasin SURACHMAN 73-71
145 - George GANDRANATA 72-73
147 - Seandy ALFARABI 72-75 (am)
The halfway stage of the US$750,000 Asian Tour event was suspended for the day at 5.45 pm due to fading light as a total of 27 players will return to resume their rounds at 6.30am on Saturday.
Play was suspended for an hour due to lightning threats in the afternoon. Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand dropped two shots in near darkness to finish the round on a 69 to trail by one alongside Tirawat Kaewsiribandit (68), S. Chikkarangappa (67) of India and co-overnight leader Masahiro Kawamura (71) of Japan.
Fraser, who needs a victory this week to overtake Scott Hend on the Order of Merit, was delighted to return to form and build on his two-day momentum. After finding 16 greens, the Australian was held back by a cold putter where he made 29 putts.
“My game was pretty steady. I felt like I played pretty similar to what I did yesterday. I just had one poor drive on 17. That was a terrible golf shot and I made a bogey. Other than that it was steady all day. Hopefully I can keep building on the score I’m on and keep playing well. Hopefully I can make some putts,” said Fraser.
After struggling with a knee injury earlier this year, Richardson, aiming for a first Asian Tour victory, stayed in the moment and was rewarded with a share of the lead. “I’ve been struggling a little bit with the game. It was nice to get through a couple of challenges today and stay in the moment. I’ve been getting carried away and that’s been costing me,” said the Australian. “My left knee was inflamed (from cycling) and I’ve been getting a lot of treatment from the staff here and managing it myself. It is feeling a lot better and I’ve not had any dramas in the last few weeks,” added Richardson.
Ranked 44th in the world, Thongchai, the only player to win three Order of Merit crowns, continued his rich vein of form after finishing inside the top-10 in Korea last week. He charged into contention with a solid round and was forced to finish the last hole as nightfall landed over the Royale Jakarta course to avoid an early morning call on Saturday.
“We rushed in the last two holes because we didn’t want to come back early tomorrow. I played very well and I have no complaints with the round. At least now I know I will have some rest and have a chance at the weekend,” said Thongchai.
With two top-10 results on the Asian Tour and a victory on the local circuit, the confident Chikkarangappa charged up the leaderboard with a solid homeward nine which included four birdies. “I’ve been going through positive weeks. It is not only this week. I’ve been following up on my solid performances and I’m really confident with how things are going. Hopefully I can do something this week."
“It feels like a home tour this week. Anirban (Lahiri) is here and we did some work on the range and helping each other. I have positive energy when he is around me because I get the best advice from him,” said the Indian, who is close friends with Lahiri.
Scores after round 2 of the BNI Indonesian Masters being played at the par 72, 7340 Yards Royale Jakarta GC course (am - denotes amateur):
136 - Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS) 68-68, Marcus FRASER (AUS) 69-67
137 - Tirawat KAEWSIRIBANDIT (THA) 69-68, Masahiro KAWAMURA (JPN) 66-71, Chikkarangappa S. (IND) 70-67, Thongchai JAIDEE (THA) 68-69
138 - Jeev Milkha SINGH (IND) 69-69, Phachara KHONGWATMAI (THA) 67-71, Casey O'TOOLE (USA) 69-69, Antonio LASCUNA (PHI) 69-69, Javi COLOMO (ESP) 69-69, LIU Yan-wei (CHN) 68-70, Poom SAKSANSIN (THA) 69-69
Selected Indonesian players:
(-2) - Kurnia HERISIANDY 71-14*
(-1) - Danny MASRIN 72-16, Rory HIE 74-15
144 - Nasin SURACHMAN 73-71
145 - George GANDRANATA 72-73
147 - Seandy ALFARABI 72-75 (am)
Thursday, October 6, 2016
Trio Lead At BNI Indonesian Masters Presented By Zurich
Jakarta, October 6 - Gaganjeet Bhullar of India continued his fine form when he shared the opening round lead with Gunn Charoenkul of Thailand and Masahiro Kawamura of Japan at the BNI Indonesian Masters presented by Zurich on Thursday.
Coming off the back of a victory in Korea last week, Bhullar produced a flawless round of six-under-par 66 to tie at the top alongside Kawamura and sponsor’s invite Gunn, who is finding his best form again after returning from a wrist injury.
Arjun Atwal, a former Asian Tour number one and first Indian to win on the PGA Tour, was a further shot back with Thai teenagers Phachara Khongwatmai and Suradit Yongcharoenchai at the US$750,000 event staged at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club.
Lu Wei-chih of Chinese Taipei, who won on home soil last week and Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand, the only player to win three Order of Merit crowns, were among nine players bunched up in seventh place on 68s.
The 28-year-old Bhullar, who started from the 10th tee, overcame early nerves to make the turn in 32 before adding birdies on seven and nine to stay in contention for back-to-back victories. “It was a bogey free round and at the end of the day, that’s the target. I’m trying to repeat what I did last week,” said Bhullar, a six-time Asian Tour winner.
“In the beginning I was a bit nervous. Coming straight after a victory, your mental aspect is slightly different. You try to go for a par and try not to attack the pins. I putted really well today especially on 12, 13 and 14 (birdies) and those were all from 10 or 15 feet which I holed,” he added.
Gunn suffered a wrist injury in 2014 and is slowly finding his form again after winning on the local circuit in Thailand in July and in China in September. He looks to Bhullar for inspiration as he seeks a return to the Asian Tour. “I’m feeling pretty excited to be tied at the top with Gaganjeet (Bhullar). He just came off an injury and won. I think we had the same injury as well (wrist injury). I’m glad that we are both playing well,” said the 24-year-old Gunn.
Japan’s Kawamura, who has one win on the Asian Tour, recovered from an opening bogey to fire seven birdies including one on the last to take his place among the leaders. “It was an easy round,” said Kawamura. “I hit it on the fairway and gave myself chances at birdies which I holed. I’m obviously happy with how I played but it is only the first round. Let’s see what happens in the next three rounds.”
After finishing inside the top-five in the last two Asian Tour events, Phachara played without any pressure to produce another solid round to keep up his chase for a first victory. “My game plan is easy. I don’t think ahead or set a goal for myself. I just want to play my best golf. I’m not worried if I play badly but I play good, then I’m happy. That was the case today,” said the 17-year-old Thai.
Several of the local players put in solid performances and are still in contention for weekend play. Kurnia Herisiandy leads the pack with 1-under in a tie for 51st. Indonesia's top players George Gandranata and Danny Masrin both came round at even par, together with leading amateur Seandy Alfarabi, good for a share of 62nd place.
Said Danny Masrin: "It was a very up-and-down day for me. I made some stupid mistakes out there but I don’t think it is going to affect me going into tomorrow. I have a game plan. I hit the ball pretty well today. Just a couple of mistakes today and if I clean that up tomorrow I will be fine. I get on tees and some people think they are difficult lines but I know the lines and where to be and where to miss.
Play was suspended at 5.55pm (local time) due to darkness. A total of five players will resume their rounds on Friday at 7am.
Scores after round 1 of the BNI Indonesian Masters being played at the par 72, 7340 yards Royale Jakarta GC course (am - denotes amateur):
66 - Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND), Gunn CHAROENKUL (THA), Masahiro KAWAMURA (JPN)
67 - Arjun ATWAL (IND), Phachara KHONGWATMAI (THA), Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA)
68 - LU Wei-chih (TPE), Thongchai JAIDEE (THA), Namchok TANTIPOKHAKUL (THA), Darren TAN (AUS), Janne KASKE (FIN), Shiv KAPUR (IND), Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS), Chinnarat PHADUNGSIL (THA), Lionel WEBER (FRA)
Selected Indonesian players:
71 - Kurnia HERISIANDY
72 - Danny MASRIN, George GANDRANATA, Seandy ALFARABI (am)
73 - Ditya NOVIANTO, Cahyo ADHITOMO (am), Jordan IRAWAN, Nasin SURACHMAN
Coming off the back of a victory in Korea last week, Bhullar produced a flawless round of six-under-par 66 to tie at the top alongside Kawamura and sponsor’s invite Gunn, who is finding his best form again after returning from a wrist injury.
Arjun Atwal, a former Asian Tour number one and first Indian to win on the PGA Tour, was a further shot back with Thai teenagers Phachara Khongwatmai and Suradit Yongcharoenchai at the US$750,000 event staged at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club.
Lu Wei-chih of Chinese Taipei, who won on home soil last week and Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand, the only player to win three Order of Merit crowns, were among nine players bunched up in seventh place on 68s.
The 28-year-old Bhullar, who started from the 10th tee, overcame early nerves to make the turn in 32 before adding birdies on seven and nine to stay in contention for back-to-back victories. “It was a bogey free round and at the end of the day, that’s the target. I’m trying to repeat what I did last week,” said Bhullar, a six-time Asian Tour winner.
“In the beginning I was a bit nervous. Coming straight after a victory, your mental aspect is slightly different. You try to go for a par and try not to attack the pins. I putted really well today especially on 12, 13 and 14 (birdies) and those were all from 10 or 15 feet which I holed,” he added.
Gunn suffered a wrist injury in 2014 and is slowly finding his form again after winning on the local circuit in Thailand in July and in China in September. He looks to Bhullar for inspiration as he seeks a return to the Asian Tour. “I’m feeling pretty excited to be tied at the top with Gaganjeet (Bhullar). He just came off an injury and won. I think we had the same injury as well (wrist injury). I’m glad that we are both playing well,” said the 24-year-old Gunn.
Japan’s Kawamura, who has one win on the Asian Tour, recovered from an opening bogey to fire seven birdies including one on the last to take his place among the leaders. “It was an easy round,” said Kawamura. “I hit it on the fairway and gave myself chances at birdies which I holed. I’m obviously happy with how I played but it is only the first round. Let’s see what happens in the next three rounds.”
After finishing inside the top-five in the last two Asian Tour events, Phachara played without any pressure to produce another solid round to keep up his chase for a first victory. “My game plan is easy. I don’t think ahead or set a goal for myself. I just want to play my best golf. I’m not worried if I play badly but I play good, then I’m happy. That was the case today,” said the 17-year-old Thai.
Several of the local players put in solid performances and are still in contention for weekend play. Kurnia Herisiandy leads the pack with 1-under in a tie for 51st. Indonesia's top players George Gandranata and Danny Masrin both came round at even par, together with leading amateur Seandy Alfarabi, good for a share of 62nd place.
Said Danny Masrin: "It was a very up-and-down day for me. I made some stupid mistakes out there but I don’t think it is going to affect me going into tomorrow. I have a game plan. I hit the ball pretty well today. Just a couple of mistakes today and if I clean that up tomorrow I will be fine. I get on tees and some people think they are difficult lines but I know the lines and where to be and where to miss.
Play was suspended at 5.55pm (local time) due to darkness. A total of five players will resume their rounds on Friday at 7am.
Scores after round 1 of the BNI Indonesian Masters being played at the par 72, 7340 yards Royale Jakarta GC course (am - denotes amateur):
66 - Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND), Gunn CHAROENKUL (THA), Masahiro KAWAMURA (JPN)
67 - Arjun ATWAL (IND), Phachara KHONGWATMAI (THA), Suradit YONGCHAROENCHAI (THA)
68 - LU Wei-chih (TPE), Thongchai JAIDEE (THA), Namchok TANTIPOKHAKUL (THA), Darren TAN (AUS), Janne KASKE (FIN), Shiv KAPUR (IND), Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS), Chinnarat PHADUNGSIL (THA), Lionel WEBER (FRA)
Selected Indonesian players:
71 - Kurnia HERISIANDY
72 - Danny MASRIN, George GANDRANATA, Seandy ALFARABI (am)
73 - Ditya NOVIANTO, Cahyo ADHITOMO (am), Jordan IRAWAN, Nasin SURACHMAN
Wednesday, October 5, 2016
Icing On The Cake For Top Golfers At 2016 Indonesian Masters
JAKARTA, 4 October 2016 – Several of the region’s best golfers exchanged golf attire for aprons this morning at the official launch of the 2016 BNI Indonesian Masters presented by Zurich, which tees off at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club this Thursday.
Anirban Lahiri, Marcus Fraser, Thongchai Jaidee, and Jamie Sadlowski, together with local players Danny Masrin and George Gandranata, rolled up their sleeves and took a lesson in cake decoration from celebrity chef and TV personality Farah Quinn.
Held at the JS Luwansa Hotel and Convention Center, the challenge was part of the players’ official welcome to the Indonesian capital, while showcasing that this year’s tournament is set to offer visitors a lot more than just golf.
Speaking about the players’ culinary skills, Farah, who has created her own signature dish as part of the tournament’s culinary offering, said: “I’m impressed! These guys have got the touch! Okay perhaps a bit too early for them to sell the golf clubs and take up life as a pastry-chef, but for professional sportmen, who don’t get to spend too much time in the kitchen, it was pretty good.”
“Actually it was just a lot of fun. There was clearly some healthy competition out there and some good banter among the players as they tried to outdo each other, and I think they enjoyed it,” added the celeb chef.
Right to left: Farah Quinn judging creations of George Gandranata, Danny Masrin, Tongchai Jaidee, Anirban Lahiri, Marcus Fraser and Jamie Sadlowski
Asian Tour veteran Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand said: “It was great. A bit different to what we usually get up to and the boys were all trying to out-do each other with some pretty creations, but it was good fun and nice to be able to show a different side to our personalities than what we can on a golf course.”
Speaking about their welcome to the Indonesian capital, former Long Drive world champion Jamie Sadlowski of Canada added: “It’s great to be here. My first time playing golf in Indonesia and we get to kick it all off by baking some cakes! Great welcome for everyone though and really looking forward to the week ahead and to getting out on course. It should be a good tournament and for a nation that is so proud of it’s food culture, think it’s great to have a food theme running throughout the tournament. I hope I’ll get to try some of the dishes on offer!”
The BNI Indonesian Masters presented by Zurich promises visitors to the Royale Jakarta Golf Club four days of top quality action on course and a feast of entertainment for the whole family off it.
Spectators can look forward to a gastronomic feast complete with food trucks and stalls, offering a range of authentic Indonesian and International cuisine and other culinary delights.
TV personality, host and chef extraordinaire Farah Quinn will be looking to cook up a storm with her signature dish – Rose Tea Pudding with Vanilla Cream dish, made solely using home-grown Indonesian ingredients. Comprising Rose tea with ginger crust and vanilla seeds, it is billed as a ‘tribute to older times’ and will see a traditional long-forgotten recipe given a modern twist.
Anirban Lahiri, Marcus Fraser, Thongchai Jaidee, and Jamie Sadlowski, together with local players Danny Masrin and George Gandranata, rolled up their sleeves and took a lesson in cake decoration from celebrity chef and TV personality Farah Quinn.
Held at the JS Luwansa Hotel and Convention Center, the challenge was part of the players’ official welcome to the Indonesian capital, while showcasing that this year’s tournament is set to offer visitors a lot more than just golf.
Speaking about the players’ culinary skills, Farah, who has created her own signature dish as part of the tournament’s culinary offering, said: “I’m impressed! These guys have got the touch! Okay perhaps a bit too early for them to sell the golf clubs and take up life as a pastry-chef, but for professional sportmen, who don’t get to spend too much time in the kitchen, it was pretty good.”
“Actually it was just a lot of fun. There was clearly some healthy competition out there and some good banter among the players as they tried to outdo each other, and I think they enjoyed it,” added the celeb chef.
Asian Tour veteran Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand said: “It was great. A bit different to what we usually get up to and the boys were all trying to out-do each other with some pretty creations, but it was good fun and nice to be able to show a different side to our personalities than what we can on a golf course.”
Speaking about their welcome to the Indonesian capital, former Long Drive world champion Jamie Sadlowski of Canada added: “It’s great to be here. My first time playing golf in Indonesia and we get to kick it all off by baking some cakes! Great welcome for everyone though and really looking forward to the week ahead and to getting out on course. It should be a good tournament and for a nation that is so proud of it’s food culture, think it’s great to have a food theme running throughout the tournament. I hope I’ll get to try some of the dishes on offer!”
The BNI Indonesian Masters presented by Zurich promises visitors to the Royale Jakarta Golf Club four days of top quality action on course and a feast of entertainment for the whole family off it.
Spectators can look forward to a gastronomic feast complete with food trucks and stalls, offering a range of authentic Indonesian and International cuisine and other culinary delights.
TV personality, host and chef extraordinaire Farah Quinn will be looking to cook up a storm with her signature dish – Rose Tea Pudding with Vanilla Cream dish, made solely using home-grown Indonesian ingredients. Comprising Rose tea with ginger crust and vanilla seeds, it is billed as a ‘tribute to older times’ and will see a traditional long-forgotten recipe given a modern twist.
Saturday, April 30, 2016
2016 Indonesian Masters Set For October
Jakarta, April 27 - The Asian Tour and PGA Tour of Indonesia (PGATI) today announced that the 2016 Indonesian Masters presented by Zurich will return to the impressive surroundings of the Royale Jakarta Golf Club from October 6 to 9, 2016.
Buoyed by the addition of a new presenting partner, in leading global insurance provider Zurich, the four-day event will once again welcome the best golfers from Asia as they vie for a share of the US$750,000 prize purse.
Already the country’s preeminent golf tournament, the Indonesian Masters presented by Zurich is fast building a reputation for delivering intense competition and grandstand finishes at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club, as the top international players go head to head with the best of Asia.
Anirban Lahiri of India won the 2014 tournament in spectacular style, when he sank an eagle putt on the last hole to defeat Seukhun Baek of Korea and young Australian, Cameron Smith.
In 2015 it was recent Masters Tournament runner-up Lee Westwood’s turn to deliver a spectacular finale, surviving a play-off with Chapchai Nirat of Thailand who chased down the Englishman’s five-shot lead in the final round.
Westwood’s win made it a tournament hat trick, having won in 2011 and 2012. Other top players to have competed include four-time Major Champion Ernie Els, three-time Asian Tour Order of Merit Winner Thongchai Jaidee, 2011 Open Champion Darren Clarke, 2010 Open Champion Louis Oosthuizen and Ryder Cup star Victor Dubuisson of France.
The tournament has also welcomed some of Indonesia’s brightest professionals and amateurs over the years, including George Gandranata, Rory Hie, Jordan Irawan, Andik Mauludin and Tirto Tamardi.
Jimmy Masrin, Co-Founder of the Indonesian Masters and Chairman of the Asian Tour said: ‘We’re pleased to announce the 2016 edition of the Indonesian Masters presented by Zurich. Over the last five years, the tournament has clearly established itself as Indonesia’s preeminent golf tournament, and one of the most highly regarded events on the Asian Tour.
“We welcome Zurich on board as a presenting sponsor for the tournament. The combination of the company’s global profile and reputation within the international golf community, together with its local market understanding will undoubtedly help the tournament in fulfilling its objectives of creating top quality entertainment both on and off the golf course.”
Speaking about its new partnership with the tournament, Peter Huber, President Director of Zurich Topas Life and representing Zurich in Indonesia, said: “Zurich has been involved with golf for many years through key sponsorship engagements worldwide and we are very proud to now be presenting the 2016 Indonesian Masters.
“Golf is a game that many of our customers truly love. But our involvement in this sport means more to us than just supporting one of our customers’ passions, and associating our brand with highly positive, emotionally charged moments. It is a true partnership we feel with all of our customers and the community who truly love golf.
“Golf is one of the few sports that does not require a standardized playing area. While the basic rules apply regardless of the terrain, each course is different and players need to adapt their game accordingly if they wish to succeed. They need to be focused and disciplined while maintaining the flexibility to respond to unexpected challenges. This is something that we as insurance professionals have in common with golfers, which explains why Zurich is so engaged in the game worldwide.
“As the government aims to turn Indonesia into a major golfing destination in Asia, Zurich also sees the importance of developing elite local golf talent for the benefit of the sport and Indonesia as a whole. We invite Indonesian golfers to be involved in this prestigious tournament.”
The tournament will be broadcast live across the Asian Tour TV platform, potentially reaching 740 million households in over 180 countries thereby showcasing Indonesia to a global audience.
Sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the PGATI, the Indonesian Masters presented by Zurich will feature 150 players; consisting of 96 players from the Asian Tour; the top 20 professionals from the PGA Tour of Indonesia; the top four Indonesian Amateurs; 15 eligible/available players from the top-50 of the Official World Golf Ranking and 15 sponsor exemption places.
Buoyed by the addition of a new presenting partner, in leading global insurance provider Zurich, the four-day event will once again welcome the best golfers from Asia as they vie for a share of the US$750,000 prize purse.
Already the country’s preeminent golf tournament, the Indonesian Masters presented by Zurich is fast building a reputation for delivering intense competition and grandstand finishes at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club, as the top international players go head to head with the best of Asia.
Anirban Lahiri of India won the 2014 tournament in spectacular style, when he sank an eagle putt on the last hole to defeat Seukhun Baek of Korea and young Australian, Cameron Smith.
In 2015 it was recent Masters Tournament runner-up Lee Westwood’s turn to deliver a spectacular finale, surviving a play-off with Chapchai Nirat of Thailand who chased down the Englishman’s five-shot lead in the final round.
Westwood’s win made it a tournament hat trick, having won in 2011 and 2012. Other top players to have competed include four-time Major Champion Ernie Els, three-time Asian Tour Order of Merit Winner Thongchai Jaidee, 2011 Open Champion Darren Clarke, 2010 Open Champion Louis Oosthuizen and Ryder Cup star Victor Dubuisson of France.
The tournament has also welcomed some of Indonesia’s brightest professionals and amateurs over the years, including George Gandranata, Rory Hie, Jordan Irawan, Andik Mauludin and Tirto Tamardi.
Jimmy Masrin, Co-Founder of the Indonesian Masters and Chairman of the Asian Tour said: ‘We’re pleased to announce the 2016 edition of the Indonesian Masters presented by Zurich. Over the last five years, the tournament has clearly established itself as Indonesia’s preeminent golf tournament, and one of the most highly regarded events on the Asian Tour.
“We welcome Zurich on board as a presenting sponsor for the tournament. The combination of the company’s global profile and reputation within the international golf community, together with its local market understanding will undoubtedly help the tournament in fulfilling its objectives of creating top quality entertainment both on and off the golf course.”
Speaking about its new partnership with the tournament, Peter Huber, President Director of Zurich Topas Life and representing Zurich in Indonesia, said: “Zurich has been involved with golf for many years through key sponsorship engagements worldwide and we are very proud to now be presenting the 2016 Indonesian Masters.
“Golf is a game that many of our customers truly love. But our involvement in this sport means more to us than just supporting one of our customers’ passions, and associating our brand with highly positive, emotionally charged moments. It is a true partnership we feel with all of our customers and the community who truly love golf.
“Golf is one of the few sports that does not require a standardized playing area. While the basic rules apply regardless of the terrain, each course is different and players need to adapt their game accordingly if they wish to succeed. They need to be focused and disciplined while maintaining the flexibility to respond to unexpected challenges. This is something that we as insurance professionals have in common with golfers, which explains why Zurich is so engaged in the game worldwide.
“As the government aims to turn Indonesia into a major golfing destination in Asia, Zurich also sees the importance of developing elite local golf talent for the benefit of the sport and Indonesia as a whole. We invite Indonesian golfers to be involved in this prestigious tournament.”
The tournament will be broadcast live across the Asian Tour TV platform, potentially reaching 740 million households in over 180 countries thereby showcasing Indonesia to a global audience.
Sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the PGATI, the Indonesian Masters presented by Zurich will feature 150 players; consisting of 96 players from the Asian Tour; the top 20 professionals from the PGA Tour of Indonesia; the top four Indonesian Amateurs; 15 eligible/available players from the top-50 of the Official World Golf Ranking and 15 sponsor exemption places.
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Westwood Takes His Third Crown After Playoff At CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters Presented By Enjoy Jakarta Golf 2015
Jakarta, April 26 2015 - England’s Lee Westwood fended off the spirited challenge from Thailand’s Chapchai Nirat by defeating him at the first play-off hole to clinch his third CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters presented by Enjoy Jakarta Golf 2015 title on Sunday.
The former world number one’s bid to claim his hat-trick of titles at the US$750,000 Asian Tour event was secured when he birdied the play-off 18th hole as Chapchai, a four-time Asian Tour winner, could only make par.
“There are a lot of good players on the Asian Tour now and the standard is getting higher on this Tour and it’s harder to come over here and win, especially today.
“It’s nice to come back and play with them on their own Tour where they get to show everybody in Asia how good they are. To come to this tournament this week and win it three times is obviously extra special,” said Westwood.
The Englishman appeared to be cruising towards an emphatic victory until two successive bogeys on 16 and 17 blew the title race wide open.
He had the opportunity to win with a birdie at the last but misread the green and was forced to settle for a par and a four-day total of seven-under-par 281.
But after returning to the 18th hole for extra-time, Westwood made no mistake from the exact spot again.
“It was a tough putt coming into the hill over on 18. I misread it slightly and hit it to about five-feet and missed it. But fortunately in the play-off, I hit it to the exact same spot, I knew the line and it was a nice straight putt for the win.
“I’ve never been beaten around this golf course which is great and this win will give me the confidence for the year ahead,” said Westwood.
Despite falling short in his bid for the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters title, Chapchai remained upbeat about his season ahead.
The Thai, who holds the world 72-hole scoring record, surmounted a late charge by storming up the leaderboard with seven birdies and one bogey to force Westwood into a play-off.
The 31-year-old found trouble when his second shot landed in the bunker during the play-off.
After hitting out from the bunker where his ball would land about 10-feet away from the pin, Chapchai could also make par, handing the advantage over to Westwood, who would go on to sink his decisive birdie putt.
“When I started out, I told myself a top-three finish would be fantastic, considering how good Lee has played this week. Getting into the play-off was a bonus and I’m very proud of myself despite the defeat.
“I managed to sort out my putting this week. And that’s important as it’ll help in the long season ahead,” said Chapchai.
Ian Andrew, the only surviving Indonesian player in the field, was able to recover somewhat from the previous rounds. Making the turn in 2-over, he managed to maintain par in the last 9 holes with 2 birdies and a single double bogey for a total of 302 for the tournament.
Leading scores after round 4 of the CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters presented by Enjoy Jakarta Golf 2015 being played at the par 72, 7340 Yards Royale Jakarta GC course:
281 - Lee WESTWOOD (ENG) 69-74-65-73, Chapchai NIRAT (THA) 68-74-73-66
*Westwood defeated Chapchai at the first play-off hole with a birdie
282 - Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS) 75-70-70-67
283 - Thomas BJORN (DEN) 66-76-71-70
284 - Thitiphun CHUAYPRAKONG (THA) 71-77-67-69, Y.E. YANG (KOR) 73-71-69-71
285 - Angelo QUE (PHI) 72-75-72-66
286 - Paul PETERSON (USA) 71-73-73-69, Prayad MARKSAENG (THA) 73-72-72-69, Berry HENSON (USA) 75-72-69-70
Selected:
302 - Ian ANDREW (INA) 72-79-77-74
The former world number one’s bid to claim his hat-trick of titles at the US$750,000 Asian Tour event was secured when he birdied the play-off 18th hole as Chapchai, a four-time Asian Tour winner, could only make par.
“There are a lot of good players on the Asian Tour now and the standard is getting higher on this Tour and it’s harder to come over here and win, especially today.
“It’s nice to come back and play with them on their own Tour where they get to show everybody in Asia how good they are. To come to this tournament this week and win it three times is obviously extra special,” said Westwood.
The Englishman appeared to be cruising towards an emphatic victory until two successive bogeys on 16 and 17 blew the title race wide open.
He had the opportunity to win with a birdie at the last but misread the green and was forced to settle for a par and a four-day total of seven-under-par 281.
But after returning to the 18th hole for extra-time, Westwood made no mistake from the exact spot again.
“It was a tough putt coming into the hill over on 18. I misread it slightly and hit it to about five-feet and missed it. But fortunately in the play-off, I hit it to the exact same spot, I knew the line and it was a nice straight putt for the win.
“I’ve never been beaten around this golf course which is great and this win will give me the confidence for the year ahead,” said Westwood.
Despite falling short in his bid for the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters title, Chapchai remained upbeat about his season ahead.
The Thai, who holds the world 72-hole scoring record, surmounted a late charge by storming up the leaderboard with seven birdies and one bogey to force Westwood into a play-off.
The 31-year-old found trouble when his second shot landed in the bunker during the play-off.
After hitting out from the bunker where his ball would land about 10-feet away from the pin, Chapchai could also make par, handing the advantage over to Westwood, who would go on to sink his decisive birdie putt.
“When I started out, I told myself a top-three finish would be fantastic, considering how good Lee has played this week. Getting into the play-off was a bonus and I’m very proud of myself despite the defeat.
“I managed to sort out my putting this week. And that’s important as it’ll help in the long season ahead,” said Chapchai.
Ian Andrew, the only surviving Indonesian player in the field, was able to recover somewhat from the previous rounds. Making the turn in 2-over, he managed to maintain par in the last 9 holes with 2 birdies and a single double bogey for a total of 302 for the tournament.
Leading scores after round 4 of the CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters presented by Enjoy Jakarta Golf 2015 being played at the par 72, 7340 Yards Royale Jakarta GC course:
281 - Lee WESTWOOD (ENG) 69-74-65-73, Chapchai NIRAT (THA) 68-74-73-66
*Westwood defeated Chapchai at the first play-off hole with a birdie
282 - Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS) 75-70-70-67
283 - Thomas BJORN (DEN) 66-76-71-70
284 - Thitiphun CHUAYPRAKONG (THA) 71-77-67-69, Y.E. YANG (KOR) 73-71-69-71
285 - Angelo QUE (PHI) 72-75-72-66
286 - Paul PETERSON (USA) 71-73-73-69, Prayad MARKSAENG (THA) 73-72-72-69, Berry HENSON (USA) 75-72-69-70
Selected:
302 - Ian ANDREW (INA) 72-79-77-74
Saturday, April 25, 2015
Westwood Takes Charge Going Into The Final Round Of The CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters Presented By Enjoy Jakarta Golf
Jakarta, April 25 - England’s Lee Westwood’s superb ability of staying patient was rewarded when he stormed ahead to snatch the third round lead with a seven-under-par 65 at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters presented by Enjoy Jakarta Golf on Saturday.
The former world number one cut a frustrated figure in his front-nine but an astonishing back-nine 29 saw Westwood compile a three-day total of eight-under-par 208 to establish a five-shot lead going into the final round at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club.
Thailand’s Namchok Tantipokhakul carded a 71 to tie for second with Denmark’s Thomas Bjorn and Korea’s Y.E. Yang on matching 213 total at the US$750,000 Asian Tour event.
It was a tale of two different nines for Westwood, the double CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters champion, who had started the day in seventh place.
The Englishman turned in 36 after mixing one birdie and one bogey.
However a stunning eagle-three on 12 lifted the world number 33 to the top of the leaderboard.
“I was struggling for a bit of momentum around the front-nine as I found it hard to read the greens. That eagle from about 25 ft really got me going and I went on to birdie the next five holes,” said Westwood.
Five successive birdies from 13 then saw him sprint away from the chasing pack, giving him a commanding advantage before the final round beckons.
“Nobody was really doing anything around the front-nine. I was sort of plodding along and even-par till 11 and only two behind then. But I managed to have a good run after that and stamp a bit of authority when nobody was doing it,” said Westwood.
With a hat-trick of titles in sight, Westwood is determined to make his visit to Jakarta another enjoyable one.
“I’ve been here twice and I won both times so I like to keep that going. I’ve never been beaten before so I’m going in with a big chance tomorrow,” said Westwood.
Despite Westwood’s healthy lead, Bjorn believes he still has a chance to dent the Englishman’s title aspirations.
“I haven’t been playing particularly well. But I managed to scramble my way around. It’s very much in his hands but I’ll still give a go and see how it goes.
“I got to putt well and shoot really low tomorrow as I can’t let anything slip early,” said the Dane.
Namchok is also determined to stop Westwood in his tracks by going on a birdie sprint early.
“I’ve got to start applying the pressure early and see how it goes. There’s still a chance and I’m going to do my best and try to make a charge early tomorrow,” said the Thai.
Ian Andrew, the only Indonesian left in the tournament, carded a 77. Still at par after his first nine holes, he finished his round with 5 birdies on the second nine.
Leading scores after round 3 of the CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters being played at the par 72, 7340 Yards Royale Jakarta GC course:
208 – Lee WESTWOOD (ENG) 69-74-65
213 – Y.E. YANG (KOR) 73-71-69, Thomas BJORN (DEN) 66-76-71, Namchok TANTIPOKHAKUL (THA) 69-73-71
214 – Kalle SAMOOJA (FIN) 69-76-69
215 – Thitiphun CHUAYPRAKONG (THA) 71-77-67, Khalin JOSHI (IND) 71-76-68, Bryce EASTON (RSA) 73-77-65, Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS) 75-70-70, Jeunghun WANG (KOR) 74-71-70, Yosuke TSUKADA (JPN) 71-71-73, Chapchai NIRAT (THA) 68-74-73, CHAN Shih-chang (TPE) 66-75-74
Selected:
228 - Ian ANDREW (INA) 72-79-77
The former world number one cut a frustrated figure in his front-nine but an astonishing back-nine 29 saw Westwood compile a three-day total of eight-under-par 208 to establish a five-shot lead going into the final round at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club.
Thailand’s Namchok Tantipokhakul carded a 71 to tie for second with Denmark’s Thomas Bjorn and Korea’s Y.E. Yang on matching 213 total at the US$750,000 Asian Tour event.
It was a tale of two different nines for Westwood, the double CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters champion, who had started the day in seventh place.
The Englishman turned in 36 after mixing one birdie and one bogey.
However a stunning eagle-three on 12 lifted the world number 33 to the top of the leaderboard.
“I was struggling for a bit of momentum around the front-nine as I found it hard to read the greens. That eagle from about 25 ft really got me going and I went on to birdie the next five holes,” said Westwood.
Five successive birdies from 13 then saw him sprint away from the chasing pack, giving him a commanding advantage before the final round beckons.
“Nobody was really doing anything around the front-nine. I was sort of plodding along and even-par till 11 and only two behind then. But I managed to have a good run after that and stamp a bit of authority when nobody was doing it,” said Westwood.
With a hat-trick of titles in sight, Westwood is determined to make his visit to Jakarta another enjoyable one.
“I’ve been here twice and I won both times so I like to keep that going. I’ve never been beaten before so I’m going in with a big chance tomorrow,” said Westwood.
Despite Westwood’s healthy lead, Bjorn believes he still has a chance to dent the Englishman’s title aspirations.
“I haven’t been playing particularly well. But I managed to scramble my way around. It’s very much in his hands but I’ll still give a go and see how it goes.
“I got to putt well and shoot really low tomorrow as I can’t let anything slip early,” said the Dane.
Namchok is also determined to stop Westwood in his tracks by going on a birdie sprint early.
“I’ve got to start applying the pressure early and see how it goes. There’s still a chance and I’m going to do my best and try to make a charge early tomorrow,” said the Thai.
Ian Andrew, the only Indonesian left in the tournament, carded a 77. Still at par after his first nine holes, he finished his round with 5 birdies on the second nine.
Leading scores after round 3 of the CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters being played at the par 72, 7340 Yards Royale Jakarta GC course:
208 – Lee WESTWOOD (ENG) 69-74-65
213 – Y.E. YANG (KOR) 73-71-69, Thomas BJORN (DEN) 66-76-71, Namchok TANTIPOKHAKUL (THA) 69-73-71
214 – Kalle SAMOOJA (FIN) 69-76-69
215 – Thitiphun CHUAYPRAKONG (THA) 71-77-67, Khalin JOSHI (IND) 71-76-68, Bryce EASTON (RSA) 73-77-65, Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS) 75-70-70, Jeunghun WANG (KOR) 74-71-70, Yosuke TSUKADA (JPN) 71-71-73, Chapchai NIRAT (THA) 68-74-73, CHAN Shih-chang (TPE) 66-75-74
Selected:
228 - Ian ANDREW (INA) 72-79-77
Ian Andrew Only Indonesian Making Cut At CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters presented by Enjoy Jakarta Golf
Jakarta, April 24 - Singapore-based Australian Unho Park battled the gusty conditions before signing for a second round one-over-par 73 to stake his place atop the leaderboard at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters presented by Enjoy Jakarta Golf on Friday.
On a windy day where only four players broke par at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club, Park continued to put himself in contention for his maiden Asian Tour win at the US$750,000 Asian Tour event with his two-day total of four-under-par 140.
Overnight co-leader Chan Shih-chang of Chinese Taipei eagled his closing ninth hole to haul himself back into contention, taking the outright second place with a 75 after struggling for most part of the day.
Thailand’s Namchok Tantipokhakul and Chapchai Nirat signed for matching 142 total to share third place with Denmark’s Thomas Bjorn and Japan’s Yosuke Tsukada while birthday boy Lee Westwood of England returned with a 74 to stay in touch with the leaders in seventh place.
Starting the day tied for second, Park stumbled early with a bogey on the first hole.
He recovered briefly with two birdies on 14 and 16 but dropped three more shots in his inward-nine.
“It was a tough day in the office today. I actually felt the winds were blowing harder today. I didn’t hit it as good as yesterday but I still managed to hit some decent shots,” said Park.
The 41-year-old, who has surprised even himself by holding the lead, is upbeat of his chances this week.
“I always surprise myself when I play well. Today, I just hung in there as it was really a grind today. But overall, it’s still a good position heading into the weekends,” said Park.
Chan meanwhile produced a spectacular masterclass on his last hole by chipping in from the edge of the green for an eagle-three.
That brought out the cheers for the 28-year-old who was staring at a five-over-par score before his last hole heroics changed the equation.
“I needed that eagle on the last hole to get me back into the game. It was definitely a big relief as I was four-over at the turn and needed something special like that to bring me back into contention.
“I’m used to such windy conditions as that’s what it’s like back home too but I struggle with the distance as this is a fairly long course and I’ve to hit it really long,” said Chan.
Westwood also conceded the gusty winds made play tough but remained confident of securing a hat-trick of titles at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters.
“It was tough and one of the toughest I’ve ever seen in Asia. Conditions were really extreme. We didn’t get a break with the weather. Normally it’s quite calm in the morning but it was blowing from the get-go this morning.
“I feel like under-par will still get you into contention and I’m still in there. I think it’s going to be bunched up and a scramble on the Sunday. So it’s just the case of being within a few shots of the leaders,” said Westwood, winner of the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters in 2011 and 2012.
Ian Andrew was the only Indonesian golfer who managed to make the cut. In the first edition of the Indonesian Masters it was only Rory Hie who went through. Similarly, two years later it was Andik Mauludin left to play the weekend. This year it was Ian going through after posting a total of 151 strokes after two days of play.
"Today there was exceptional wind. I lost it at the par 3 hole 4. The ball landed in the water and I made seven shots (quadruple bogey). I immediately started to play safe, go for par, but made bogey instead. On the eighth hole I saved par and hole 9 I made birdie, so it motivated me again. Until hole 15 I made pars and was still 7 over and I just maintained the game", he said.
Ian claimed that not only the wind became an obstacle for him on this day, but also a slick green. Especially when he reached the 18th hole and it was already getting dark, he was just trying to land the ball closer to the pin. He also successfully recorded a par to keep the score for the day.
For all the other Indonesian players the wind was too much of a challenge and they all failed to make the cut. Best of the rest was amateur Kevin C Akbar, who missed playing the cut by only 1 shot.
Leading scores after round 2 of the CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters (A – denotes amateur):
140 – Unho PARK (AUS) 67-73
141 – CHAN Shih-chang (TPE) 66-75
142 – Namchok TANTIPOKHAKUL (THA) 69-73, Chapchai NIRAT (THA) 68-74, Thomas BJORN (DEN) 66-76, Yosuke TSUKADA (JPN) 71-71
143 – Lee WESTWOOD (ENG) 69-74
144 – Paul PETERSON (USA) 71-73, Y.E. YANG (KOR) 73-71, Shaun NORRIS (RSA) 69-75, Paul SPARGO (AUS) 70-74
Selected:
151 - Ian ANDREW (INA) 72-79
CUT
152 - Kevin C. AKBAR (A) (INA) 77 75
156 - Denny A. WIJAYA (INA) 75 81, Johannes DERMAWAN (INA) 76 80
157 - Kurnia Herisiandy SANTOSO (INA) 76 81, Rory HIE (INA) 76 81, Tirto TAMARDI (A) (INA) 76-81
158 - Andik MAULUDIN (INA) 80 78
159 - Rinaldi ADIYANDONO (INA) 81-78, George GANDRANATA (INA) 79 80, William SJAICHUDIN (INA) 79-80
160 - Benita YUNIARTO (INA) 79-81
161 - Fadhli Rahman SOETARSO (A) (INA) 77-84, Almay RAYHAN (A) (INA) 81-80
162 - I Ketut SUGIARTA (INA) 78-84
164 - Rizchy SUBEKTI (A) (INA) 82-82
165 - Bramantio ADI (INA) 77-88
166 - Asep SAEFULLOH (INA) 75-91
167 - Jordan IRAWAN (INA) 81-86
170 - Andrew WIRAWAN (INA) 84-86
171 - Daniel WIRAWAN (A) (INA) 79-92
173 - Fajar WINURYANTO (INA) 87-86
83 - Sarmilih (INA) 83-WDN
77 - Junaidi IBRAHIM (INA) 77-RTD
On a windy day where only four players broke par at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club, Park continued to put himself in contention for his maiden Asian Tour win at the US$750,000 Asian Tour event with his two-day total of four-under-par 140.
Overnight co-leader Chan Shih-chang of Chinese Taipei eagled his closing ninth hole to haul himself back into contention, taking the outright second place with a 75 after struggling for most part of the day.
Thailand’s Namchok Tantipokhakul and Chapchai Nirat signed for matching 142 total to share third place with Denmark’s Thomas Bjorn and Japan’s Yosuke Tsukada while birthday boy Lee Westwood of England returned with a 74 to stay in touch with the leaders in seventh place.
Starting the day tied for second, Park stumbled early with a bogey on the first hole.
He recovered briefly with two birdies on 14 and 16 but dropped three more shots in his inward-nine.
“It was a tough day in the office today. I actually felt the winds were blowing harder today. I didn’t hit it as good as yesterday but I still managed to hit some decent shots,” said Park.
The 41-year-old, who has surprised even himself by holding the lead, is upbeat of his chances this week.
“I always surprise myself when I play well. Today, I just hung in there as it was really a grind today. But overall, it’s still a good position heading into the weekends,” said Park.
Chan meanwhile produced a spectacular masterclass on his last hole by chipping in from the edge of the green for an eagle-three.
That brought out the cheers for the 28-year-old who was staring at a five-over-par score before his last hole heroics changed the equation.
“I needed that eagle on the last hole to get me back into the game. It was definitely a big relief as I was four-over at the turn and needed something special like that to bring me back into contention.
“I’m used to such windy conditions as that’s what it’s like back home too but I struggle with the distance as this is a fairly long course and I’ve to hit it really long,” said Chan.
Westwood also conceded the gusty winds made play tough but remained confident of securing a hat-trick of titles at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters.
“It was tough and one of the toughest I’ve ever seen in Asia. Conditions were really extreme. We didn’t get a break with the weather. Normally it’s quite calm in the morning but it was blowing from the get-go this morning.
“I feel like under-par will still get you into contention and I’m still in there. I think it’s going to be bunched up and a scramble on the Sunday. So it’s just the case of being within a few shots of the leaders,” said Westwood, winner of the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters in 2011 and 2012.
Ian Andrew was the only Indonesian golfer who managed to make the cut. In the first edition of the Indonesian Masters it was only Rory Hie who went through. Similarly, two years later it was Andik Mauludin left to play the weekend. This year it was Ian going through after posting a total of 151 strokes after two days of play.
"Today there was exceptional wind. I lost it at the par 3 hole 4. The ball landed in the water and I made seven shots (quadruple bogey). I immediately started to play safe, go for par, but made bogey instead. On the eighth hole I saved par and hole 9 I made birdie, so it motivated me again. Until hole 15 I made pars and was still 7 over and I just maintained the game", he said.
Ian claimed that not only the wind became an obstacle for him on this day, but also a slick green. Especially when he reached the 18th hole and it was already getting dark, he was just trying to land the ball closer to the pin. He also successfully recorded a par to keep the score for the day.
For all the other Indonesian players the wind was too much of a challenge and they all failed to make the cut. Best of the rest was amateur Kevin C Akbar, who missed playing the cut by only 1 shot.
Leading scores after round 2 of the CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters (A – denotes amateur):
140 – Unho PARK (AUS) 67-73
141 – CHAN Shih-chang (TPE) 66-75
142 – Namchok TANTIPOKHAKUL (THA) 69-73, Chapchai NIRAT (THA) 68-74, Thomas BJORN (DEN) 66-76, Yosuke TSUKADA (JPN) 71-71
143 – Lee WESTWOOD (ENG) 69-74
144 – Paul PETERSON (USA) 71-73, Y.E. YANG (KOR) 73-71, Shaun NORRIS (RSA) 69-75, Paul SPARGO (AUS) 70-74
Selected:
151 - Ian ANDREW (INA) 72-79
CUT
152 - Kevin C. AKBAR (A) (INA) 77 75
156 - Denny A. WIJAYA (INA) 75 81, Johannes DERMAWAN (INA) 76 80
157 - Kurnia Herisiandy SANTOSO (INA) 76 81, Rory HIE (INA) 76 81, Tirto TAMARDI (A) (INA) 76-81
158 - Andik MAULUDIN (INA) 80 78
159 - Rinaldi ADIYANDONO (INA) 81-78, George GANDRANATA (INA) 79 80, William SJAICHUDIN (INA) 79-80
160 - Benita YUNIARTO (INA) 79-81
161 - Fadhli Rahman SOETARSO (A) (INA) 77-84, Almay RAYHAN (A) (INA) 81-80
162 - I Ketut SUGIARTA (INA) 78-84
164 - Rizchy SUBEKTI (A) (INA) 82-82
165 - Bramantio ADI (INA) 77-88
166 - Asep SAEFULLOH (INA) 75-91
167 - Jordan IRAWAN (INA) 81-86
170 - Andrew WIRAWAN (INA) 84-86
171 - Daniel WIRAWAN (A) (INA) 79-92
173 - Fajar WINURYANTO (INA) 87-86
83 - Sarmilih (INA) 83-WDN
77 - Junaidi IBRAHIM (INA) 77-RTD
Thursday, April 23, 2015
Team Indonesia Fails To Impress At CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters Presented By Enjoy Jakarta Golf
Jakarta, April 23 - Chinese Taipei’s Chan Shih-chang showed his mettle as he opened his account with a six-under-par 66 to share the first round lead with Denmark’s Thomas Bjorn at the US$750,000 CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters presented by Enjoy Jakarta Golf on Thursday.
Bjorn, who is seeking his first win in Asia, overcame the hot and humid conditions at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club by trading seven birdies against one bogey to tie for the lead in his debut appearance in the Asian Tour event.
Singapore-based Australian Unho Park rediscovered his putting touch by posting a 67 to share third place with India’s Abhijit Chadha, who had the honor of holing the first hole-in-one at the par-three 15 this week.
Former world number one Lee Westwood of England returned with a 69 to share seventh place with six other players that also featured Thailand’s Thaworn Wiratchant, India’s Rashid Khan and Philippines’ Miguel Tabuena.
One of the most successful players on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) with four wins, Chan showed his class and composure in his first start on the Asian Tour this year.
Chan came off the blocks quickly by reaching the turn in 32 after four birdies in the morning.
The 28-year-old continued his birdie sprint on 12 and 14 before dropping his only shot of the day on 16. However, he redeemed himself quickly with a closing birdie.
“I’ve won four times on the ADT and I’m really serious about winning on the Asian Tour now,” said Chan.
“I hope to bring my wealth of experience, playing and winning on the ADT to the Asian Tour. It’s definitely a big step up for me and I’m looking forward to my breakthrough,” he added.
Bjorn, who boasts 21 professional victories worldwide including 15 on the European Tour, is also upbeat of landing his first win in Asia after overcoming the early morning humidity.
“I played pretty solid and I got onto a nice run in my back-nine which kind of brought the round to a really good score.
“It was humid but nice in the morning especially the first 10 to 11 holes. You’ve got to focus really hard and not let your guard down here,” said the big Dane.
Having missed the cut in all of his previous three starts on the Asian Tour this season, Park’s superb round brought back that vital self-belief required to jump start his season.
“I always surprise myself when I play this well. It was really tough out there in the afternoon as it was extremely windy. But I managed to hit my irons well and hole the putts when I needed to for a change.
“I actually played well in my first two events where I just missed the cut by one as my putting was really bad. But I worked on it and the big difference today came down to my putting,” said Park, who is chasing his first win on the Asian Tour this week.
Chadha, who secured his Tour card at Qualifying School earlier this year in Thailand, also received a timely confidence boost when he aced the 15th hole with his six-iron.
The hole-in-one set the Indian on his way to a promising start when he would go on to mark his card with four birdies and one bogey.
“It was good today. I started off well by getting a hole-in-one on the 15th and that really kept myself in it. I hit a six-iron, aimed straight at the flag and it went right into the hole.
“I’ve made a hole-in-one in my career but this is really special as I’ve made it on the Asian Tour. That gave me lots of confidence not only for the rest of the round but the entire week ahead,” said Chadha.
Meanwhile the Indonesian team failed to impress, with only one player in the top 70 after round 1. Ian Andrew leads the squad in a tie for 24th after scoring a par 72, three shots ahead of the trio of Asep Saefulloh, Denny A. Wijaya and Kurnia Herisiandy Santoso who are in a 19-way tie for 74th. Leading amateur is Tirto Tamardi who is one shot further back together with among others Rory Hie.
George Gandranata (79), who finished highest of the local players in last years edition, has to work extremely hard tomorrow to make the cut. Currently only in 129th position, he has to make up some 5 shots to get to the top 50, a difficult task indeed.
Sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the PGA Tour of Indonesia, the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters Presented by Enjoy Jakarta Golf will feature 24 Indonesian golfers, 20 professionals from the PGA Tour of Indonesia and four of Indonesia’s top amateurs who will compete in the 150 player field over 72 holes of individual stroke play.
Leading scores after round 1 of the CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters being played at the par 72, 7340 Yards Royale Jakarta GC course (A - denotes amateur):
66 - CHAN Shih-chang (TPE), Thomas BJORN (DEN)
67 - Abhijit CHADHA (IND), Unho PARK (AUS)
68 - Simon GRIFFITHS (ENG), Chapchai NIRAT (THA)
69 - Rashid KHAN (IND), Thaworn WIRATCHANT (THA), Shaun NORRIS (RSA), Kalle SAMOOJA (FIN), Namchok TANTIPOKHAKUL (THA), Lee WESTWOOD (ENG), Miguel TABUENA (PHI)
Selected:
72 - Ian ANDREW (INA)
75 - Asep SAEFULLOH (INA), Denny A. WIJAYA (INA), Kurnia Herisiandy SANTOSO (INA)
76 - Johannes DERMAWAN (INA), Rory HIE (INA), Tirto TAMARDI (A) (INA)
77 - Junaidi IBRAHIM (INA), Bramantio ADI (INA), Fadhli Rahman SOETARSO (A), Kevin C. AKBAR (A) (INA)
78 - I Ketut SUGIARTA (INA), Almay RAYHAN (A) (INA)
79 - Benita YUNIARTO (INA), William SJAICHUDIN (INA), George GANDRANATA (INA), Daniel WIRAWAN (A) (INA)
80 - Andik MAULUDIN (INA)
81 - Jordan IRAWAN (INA), Rinaldi ADIYANDONO (INA)
82 - Rizchy SUBEKTI (A) (INA)
83 - Sarmilih (INA)
84 - Andrew WIRAWAN (INA)
87 - Fajar WINURYANTO (INA)
Bjorn, who is seeking his first win in Asia, overcame the hot and humid conditions at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club by trading seven birdies against one bogey to tie for the lead in his debut appearance in the Asian Tour event.
Singapore-based Australian Unho Park rediscovered his putting touch by posting a 67 to share third place with India’s Abhijit Chadha, who had the honor of holing the first hole-in-one at the par-three 15 this week.
Former world number one Lee Westwood of England returned with a 69 to share seventh place with six other players that also featured Thailand’s Thaworn Wiratchant, India’s Rashid Khan and Philippines’ Miguel Tabuena.
One of the most successful players on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) with four wins, Chan showed his class and composure in his first start on the Asian Tour this year.
Chan came off the blocks quickly by reaching the turn in 32 after four birdies in the morning.
The 28-year-old continued his birdie sprint on 12 and 14 before dropping his only shot of the day on 16. However, he redeemed himself quickly with a closing birdie.
“I’ve won four times on the ADT and I’m really serious about winning on the Asian Tour now,” said Chan.
“I hope to bring my wealth of experience, playing and winning on the ADT to the Asian Tour. It’s definitely a big step up for me and I’m looking forward to my breakthrough,” he added.
Bjorn, who boasts 21 professional victories worldwide including 15 on the European Tour, is also upbeat of landing his first win in Asia after overcoming the early morning humidity.
“I played pretty solid and I got onto a nice run in my back-nine which kind of brought the round to a really good score.
“It was humid but nice in the morning especially the first 10 to 11 holes. You’ve got to focus really hard and not let your guard down here,” said the big Dane.
Having missed the cut in all of his previous three starts on the Asian Tour this season, Park’s superb round brought back that vital self-belief required to jump start his season.
“I always surprise myself when I play this well. It was really tough out there in the afternoon as it was extremely windy. But I managed to hit my irons well and hole the putts when I needed to for a change.
“I actually played well in my first two events where I just missed the cut by one as my putting was really bad. But I worked on it and the big difference today came down to my putting,” said Park, who is chasing his first win on the Asian Tour this week.
Chadha, who secured his Tour card at Qualifying School earlier this year in Thailand, also received a timely confidence boost when he aced the 15th hole with his six-iron.
The hole-in-one set the Indian on his way to a promising start when he would go on to mark his card with four birdies and one bogey.
“It was good today. I started off well by getting a hole-in-one on the 15th and that really kept myself in it. I hit a six-iron, aimed straight at the flag and it went right into the hole.
“I’ve made a hole-in-one in my career but this is really special as I’ve made it on the Asian Tour. That gave me lots of confidence not only for the rest of the round but the entire week ahead,” said Chadha.
Meanwhile the Indonesian team failed to impress, with only one player in the top 70 after round 1. Ian Andrew leads the squad in a tie for 24th after scoring a par 72, three shots ahead of the trio of Asep Saefulloh, Denny A. Wijaya and Kurnia Herisiandy Santoso who are in a 19-way tie for 74th. Leading amateur is Tirto Tamardi who is one shot further back together with among others Rory Hie.
George Gandranata (79), who finished highest of the local players in last years edition, has to work extremely hard tomorrow to make the cut. Currently only in 129th position, he has to make up some 5 shots to get to the top 50, a difficult task indeed.
Sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the PGA Tour of Indonesia, the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters Presented by Enjoy Jakarta Golf will feature 24 Indonesian golfers, 20 professionals from the PGA Tour of Indonesia and four of Indonesia’s top amateurs who will compete in the 150 player field over 72 holes of individual stroke play.
Leading scores after round 1 of the CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters being played at the par 72, 7340 Yards Royale Jakarta GC course (A - denotes amateur):
66 - CHAN Shih-chang (TPE), Thomas BJORN (DEN)
67 - Abhijit CHADHA (IND), Unho PARK (AUS)
68 - Simon GRIFFITHS (ENG), Chapchai NIRAT (THA)
69 - Rashid KHAN (IND), Thaworn WIRATCHANT (THA), Shaun NORRIS (RSA), Kalle SAMOOJA (FIN), Namchok TANTIPOKHAKUL (THA), Lee WESTWOOD (ENG), Miguel TABUENA (PHI)
Selected:
72 - Ian ANDREW (INA)
75 - Asep SAEFULLOH (INA), Denny A. WIJAYA (INA), Kurnia Herisiandy SANTOSO (INA)
76 - Johannes DERMAWAN (INA), Rory HIE (INA), Tirto TAMARDI (A) (INA)
77 - Junaidi IBRAHIM (INA), Bramantio ADI (INA), Fadhli Rahman SOETARSO (A), Kevin C. AKBAR (A) (INA)
78 - I Ketut SUGIARTA (INA), Almay RAYHAN (A) (INA)
79 - Benita YUNIARTO (INA), William SJAICHUDIN (INA), George GANDRANATA (INA), Daniel WIRAWAN (A) (INA)
80 - Andik MAULUDIN (INA)
81 - Jordan IRAWAN (INA), Rinaldi ADIYANDONO (INA)
82 - Rizchy SUBEKTI (A) (INA)
83 - Sarmilih (INA)
84 - Andrew WIRAWAN (INA)
87 - Fajar WINURYANTO (INA)
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
George Gandranata Aiming For Indonesian Success At CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters Presented By Enjoy Jakarta Golf
Jakarta, April 21 - Former world number Lee Westwood of England is ready to renew his affinity with the US$750,000 CIMB Indonesian Masters presented by Enjoy Jakarta Golf when it tees off on Thursday.
Regarded as Indonesia’s premier golf tournament, the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters welcomed Westwood into its distinguished roll of honor twice in 2011 and 2012.
Significantly, it was the Westwood’s inaugural win in 2011 that saw the Englishman regain his world number one ranking from Germany’s Martin Kaymer then.
“I love coming to Asia. Obviously, I had great success here in 2011 and 2012 and I hope to make it a hat-trick this week. I remember winning on the Sunday which was also my birthday and going back to world number one then. It was a triple joy and definitely a great feeling,” said Westwood.
Westwood’s last outing to Asia in December saw him emerge victorious in Thailand and he is returning to the Royale Jakarta Golf Club high on confidence.
“I don’t really know the reason why I do so well here (Asia). It’s a mystery to me but I’ve always felt comfortable here as the golf courses are very good and I’ve certainly improved over the years,” said Westwood, the world number 33, who is the highest ranked player at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters this week.
With the growing dominance by Asian players in recent months, the Englishman is however playing down his chances and focusing on his own abilities instead.
“We’re playing against a high quality field and you know that anybody on his day can contend for this championship. So you really have to concentrate on your own game, keep up your level of fitness and try to play as good as you can,” said Westwood, who turns 42 on Friday.
Standing in Westwood’s way of another triumph at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters is Denmark’s Thomas Bjorn, a 15-time European Tour winner, who is seeking his first win in Asia this week.
The Dane has triumphed in Europe, Australia, the Middle East and Africa and hopes to add another feather to his cap with a win in Jakarta.
“It has been one of those things (winning in Asia) that has been slipping away from me over the years. I’ve come so close on a couple of occasions and eventually I’m sure I’ll get over the line,” said Bjorn.
With the erratic weather expected to make the event even more challenging, the big Dane has his preparations all mapped out.
“Dealing with the weather is part and parcel of what we do. But when you get into such conditions and especially when you come from the northern part of Europe, it can be difficult.
“It’s extreme but it’s not impossible. As long as your energy levels are there with food and drinks, you’ll push through,” said Bjorn.
Meanwhile local hopeful George Gandranata is looking forward to putting Indonesia on the world map with a solid performance this week.
“I hope to put the Indonesian flag up there in the international stage,” said Gandranata.
The 29-year-old is also relishing the opportunity to play alongside his boyhood heroes and hopes he can put up a performance of his own against these heavyweights.
“It’s actually an honor to play against some of the best players in the world, especially with these guys right here. I grew up watching these guys on TV and to be able to sit here with them is just special.
“I look forward to playing well this week and also learn a lot from these guys so that I can see where my standard lies,” said Gandranata.
Sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the PGA Tour of Indonesia, the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters Presented by Enjoy Jakarta Golf will feature 24 Indonesian golfers, 20 professionals from the PGA Tour of Indonesia and four of Indonesia’s top amateurs who will compete in the 150 player field over 72 holes of individual stroke play. Preser
Regarded as Indonesia’s premier golf tournament, the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters welcomed Westwood into its distinguished roll of honor twice in 2011 and 2012.
Significantly, it was the Westwood’s inaugural win in 2011 that saw the Englishman regain his world number one ranking from Germany’s Martin Kaymer then.
“I love coming to Asia. Obviously, I had great success here in 2011 and 2012 and I hope to make it a hat-trick this week. I remember winning on the Sunday which was also my birthday and going back to world number one then. It was a triple joy and definitely a great feeling,” said Westwood.
Westwood’s last outing to Asia in December saw him emerge victorious in Thailand and he is returning to the Royale Jakarta Golf Club high on confidence.
“I don’t really know the reason why I do so well here (Asia). It’s a mystery to me but I’ve always felt comfortable here as the golf courses are very good and I’ve certainly improved over the years,” said Westwood, the world number 33, who is the highest ranked player at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters this week.
With the growing dominance by Asian players in recent months, the Englishman is however playing down his chances and focusing on his own abilities instead.
“We’re playing against a high quality field and you know that anybody on his day can contend for this championship. So you really have to concentrate on your own game, keep up your level of fitness and try to play as good as you can,” said Westwood, who turns 42 on Friday.
Standing in Westwood’s way of another triumph at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters is Denmark’s Thomas Bjorn, a 15-time European Tour winner, who is seeking his first win in Asia this week.
The Dane has triumphed in Europe, Australia, the Middle East and Africa and hopes to add another feather to his cap with a win in Jakarta.
“It has been one of those things (winning in Asia) that has been slipping away from me over the years. I’ve come so close on a couple of occasions and eventually I’m sure I’ll get over the line,” said Bjorn.
With the erratic weather expected to make the event even more challenging, the big Dane has his preparations all mapped out.
“Dealing with the weather is part and parcel of what we do. But when you get into such conditions and especially when you come from the northern part of Europe, it can be difficult.
“It’s extreme but it’s not impossible. As long as your energy levels are there with food and drinks, you’ll push through,” said Bjorn.
Meanwhile local hopeful George Gandranata is looking forward to putting Indonesia on the world map with a solid performance this week.
“I hope to put the Indonesian flag up there in the international stage,” said Gandranata.
The 29-year-old is also relishing the opportunity to play alongside his boyhood heroes and hopes he can put up a performance of his own against these heavyweights.
“It’s actually an honor to play against some of the best players in the world, especially with these guys right here. I grew up watching these guys on TV and to be able to sit here with them is just special.
“I look forward to playing well this week and also learn a lot from these guys so that I can see where my standard lies,” said Gandranata.
Sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the PGA Tour of Indonesia, the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters Presented by Enjoy Jakarta Golf will feature 24 Indonesian golfers, 20 professionals from the PGA Tour of Indonesia and four of Indonesia’s top amateurs who will compete in the 150 player field over 72 holes of individual stroke play. Preser
Tuesday, March 17, 2015
Enjoy Jakarta Golf Signs Up As Presenting Sponsor For Indonesian Masters 2015
Jakarta, 17 March 2015 – Indonesia's premier golf tournament, the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters Presented by Enjoy Jakarta Golf, today announced a series of
initiatives to ensure a truly memorable showpiece when the Asian Tour event returns to the Royale Jakarta Golf Club from April 23 – 26.
Former world no. 1 Lee Westwood of England, Denmark's Thomas Bjorn, and current Asian Tour Order of Merit leader Anirban Lahiri of India are sure to provide ample entertainment inside the ropes, while new developments away from the fairways are set to ensure that the tournament's fifth edition is as well remembered off-course, as it is on.
Enjoy Jakarta, the capital city's official tourism authority, will join the prestigious event as the Presenting Sponsor, bringing a distinctly local flavor to the four-day tournament. As visitors walk through the gates, they can expect to be greeted by the presence of Abang & None Jakarta (Mr. & Miss Jakarta) who will be onsite to champion the nation's capital city.
And in what is fast becoming a tournament tradition, the newly crowned champion will once again be presented with his very own Tenun Ikat motif jacket. While the inspiration behind the idea might come from the Masters Tournament in Augusta, observers at the 2015 edition can expect to see something a little closer to home.
The 2015 jacket was created by renowned Indonesian designer, Didiet Maulana.
Left-to-right: Andrew Wood (Indonesian Masters Pte Ltd), James Rompas (Vice CEO CIMB Niaga), Disiet Maulana (Creative Director IKAT Indonesia), Tryfena Sri Rahajoe (Marketing Communications Jaguar Indonesia) and Hari Wibowo (Marketing Director Enjoy Jakarta) unveil the winner's jacket.
The creative director from IKAT Indonesia, famous for his contemporary, locally inspired designs, has created his own version of the "Green Jacket", which will have an authentic Indonesian style.
With the countdown of the tournament well under-way, leading Indonesian golfer George Gandranata lauded the new announcements. Speaking by video message about the importance of the tournament in building Indonesia's fledgling golf industry and putting the country on the world map of golf, Gandranata said: "The CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters Presented by Enjoy Jakarta Golf plays a crucial role in the development of golf in Indonesia at a grass roots and golf industry level. Our nation has all the necessary ingredients to build an internationally recognized, healthy and sustainable golf industry benefiting many sectors of society."
"It is essential that we are staging elite, world class tournaments such as this to showcase Indonesian golf to the world and inspire future generations."
"I extend my congratulations to both Enjoy Jakarta on its partnership with the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters. They will bring their own color and style to the tournament, adding to the carnival atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. I look forward to joining everyone in Jakarta next month," added Gandranata.
Speaking in lieu of Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, Governor of Jakarta, the Director Marketing Of Enjoy Jakarta, Hari Wibowo, said about the partnership: "We are very proud to announce the partnership between Enjoy Jakarta and the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters 2015. The collaboration with this Asian Tour event will enable us to showcase the city of Jakarta not just to the thousands of visitors that come to the tournament, but to golf enthusiasts throughout the region".
"Indonesia's capital city has an important role to play in the development of golf among ASEAN. Bringing internationally recognized events such as this tournament, as well as the Asia Golf Tourism Conference – an IAGTO global golf tourism event that will be staged in Jakarta the week following the tournament – are strategic objectives for the city of Jakarta. We look forward to welcoming the international golf community to our vibrant and highly diverse capital city next month.”
Speaking on behalf of the tournament sponsor, James Rompas, Vice CEO of CIMB Niaga added, "We are delighted to welcome both Enjoy Jakarta and Didiet Maulana to this year‟s tournament. With just over a month to go before the Asian golf community arrives in Jakarta, visitors can look forward to a world class golf tournament, complimented by a host of tourist attractions brought to us in true Indonesian style. I would like to thank both partners for their commitment to making this tournament one of the very best in the region."
Sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the PGA Tour of Indonesia, the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters Presented by Enjoy Jakarta Golf will feature 24 Indonesian golfers, 20 professionals from the PGA Tour of Indonesia and four of Indonesia's top amateurs who will compete in the 150 player field over 72 holes of individual stroke play.
Former world no. 1 Lee Westwood of England, Denmark's Thomas Bjorn, and current Asian Tour Order of Merit leader Anirban Lahiri of India are sure to provide ample entertainment inside the ropes, while new developments away from the fairways are set to ensure that the tournament's fifth edition is as well remembered off-course, as it is on.
Enjoy Jakarta, the capital city's official tourism authority, will join the prestigious event as the Presenting Sponsor, bringing a distinctly local flavor to the four-day tournament. As visitors walk through the gates, they can expect to be greeted by the presence of Abang & None Jakarta (Mr. & Miss Jakarta) who will be onsite to champion the nation's capital city.
And in what is fast becoming a tournament tradition, the newly crowned champion will once again be presented with his very own Tenun Ikat motif jacket. While the inspiration behind the idea might come from the Masters Tournament in Augusta, observers at the 2015 edition can expect to see something a little closer to home.
The 2015 jacket was created by renowned Indonesian designer, Didiet Maulana.
The creative director from IKAT Indonesia, famous for his contemporary, locally inspired designs, has created his own version of the "Green Jacket", which will have an authentic Indonesian style.
With the countdown of the tournament well under-way, leading Indonesian golfer George Gandranata lauded the new announcements. Speaking by video message about the importance of the tournament in building Indonesia's fledgling golf industry and putting the country on the world map of golf, Gandranata said: "The CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters Presented by Enjoy Jakarta Golf plays a crucial role in the development of golf in Indonesia at a grass roots and golf industry level. Our nation has all the necessary ingredients to build an internationally recognized, healthy and sustainable golf industry benefiting many sectors of society."
"It is essential that we are staging elite, world class tournaments such as this to showcase Indonesian golf to the world and inspire future generations."
"I extend my congratulations to both Enjoy Jakarta on its partnership with the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters. They will bring their own color and style to the tournament, adding to the carnival atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. I look forward to joining everyone in Jakarta next month," added Gandranata.
Speaking in lieu of Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, Governor of Jakarta, the Director Marketing Of Enjoy Jakarta, Hari Wibowo, said about the partnership: "We are very proud to announce the partnership between Enjoy Jakarta and the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters 2015. The collaboration with this Asian Tour event will enable us to showcase the city of Jakarta not just to the thousands of visitors that come to the tournament, but to golf enthusiasts throughout the region".
"Indonesia's capital city has an important role to play in the development of golf among ASEAN. Bringing internationally recognized events such as this tournament, as well as the Asia Golf Tourism Conference – an IAGTO global golf tourism event that will be staged in Jakarta the week following the tournament – are strategic objectives for the city of Jakarta. We look forward to welcoming the international golf community to our vibrant and highly diverse capital city next month.”
Speaking on behalf of the tournament sponsor, James Rompas, Vice CEO of CIMB Niaga added, "We are delighted to welcome both Enjoy Jakarta and Didiet Maulana to this year‟s tournament. With just over a month to go before the Asian golf community arrives in Jakarta, visitors can look forward to a world class golf tournament, complimented by a host of tourist attractions brought to us in true Indonesian style. I would like to thank both partners for their commitment to making this tournament one of the very best in the region."
Sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the PGA Tour of Indonesia, the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters Presented by Enjoy Jakarta Golf will feature 24 Indonesian golfers, 20 professionals from the PGA Tour of Indonesia and four of Indonesia's top amateurs who will compete in the 150 player field over 72 holes of individual stroke play.
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Westwood Back To Reclaim Crown At 2015 CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters
Jakarta, February 10 - The international golfing community turned its attention to Indonesia last week as organizers on Wednesday February 4 celebrated the launch and fifth anniversary of the country’s preeminent golf tournament with an official clock to count down the 78 days to the start of the 2015 CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters.
The occasion was marked by the confirmation of three star players who will feature in 2015 edition of the tournament, in defending champion Anirban Lahiri from India, former World No. 1 Lee Westwood, and European Tour and Ryder Cup veteran, Thomas Bjorn from Denmark.
The three players will join a stellar 150 player field when the US$ 750,000 Asian Tour tournament returns to the beautiful surroundings of the Royale Jakarta Golf Club from April 23-26 this year.
27 year old Lahiri will be hoping to pick up where he left off last April, when he eagled the last hole of the tournament to claim a one shot victory over Baek Seuk-hyun of Korea and 2014 Rookie of the Year Cameron Smith of Australia.
Lahiri notched up a second victory in Macau and a further six top-ten finishes in a year that culminated with a second place finish on the Asian Tour Order of Merit and being voted 2014 Players’ Player of the Year for his exploits on the Asian Tour.
Speaking about his title defense in Jakarta, Lahiri said, “2014 was a very special year but it was this tournament where it really came together and set me up for the rest of the year. The eagle on the last hole is a putt I will never forget, so I have very happy memories of the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters and look forward to coming back to defend my title. It’s always a very competitive tournament and a great event.”
Two time tournament champion and veteran of 41 professional wins, Lee Westwood will be looking to prove that experience counts over youth as he looks to make it three wins at the tournament he claimed back to back victories at in 2011 and 2012. Coinciding with his birthday, landing the hat trick in Jakarta would be a welcome start to his 42nd year.
“The CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters is a tournament that I know well and, having won twice there, I have always felt very comfortable. It’s a great course and CIMB Niaga stage a truly first class tournament. I would love to make it a hat trick of wins.” added the Englishman.
Meanwhile Denmark’s Bjorn will be hoping to rediscover the form that has seen him land prestigious titles including the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles and Omega European Masters in a professional career that began back in 1993.
The veteran of six victorious European Ryder Cup campaigns said, “I’m looking forward to making my debut at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club. I’ve heard good things about the tournament and look forward to lining up alongside Anirban and Lee in April. The tournament comes quickly after the Masters so I’ll be looking for a good result in Indonesia to serve as a springboard for a successful summer in Europe.”
Speaking on behalf of the tournament sponsor, Arwin Rasyid, President Director of CIMB Niaga said, “2015 is a special year for the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters. It marks the fifth year of the tournament as well as four years of CIMB Niaga’s involvement. During that time, the tournament has grown in stature, attracting both the best players on the Asian Tour as well as some of the most recognized names in the history of the modern game who come to compete in Indonesia.
“In addition to our continued support for junior golf development in Indonesia, it is our hope that the tournament will inspire a future generation of Indonesians to fulfill their potential as players and represent our country on the world stage in years to come”, added Arwin.
Asian Tour Chairman Kyi Hla Han said, “Through CIMB Niaga’s commitment and sponsorship, the Indonesian Masters has grown into one of the most popular events on our schedule since 2011 where it has attracted many leading stars. The exciting event is also an important fixture for the Indonesian golfers as it provides them with the opportunity to play against the best players from the Asian Tour and also the world.”
The countdown clock will be on public display between now and the tournament at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club, CIMB Tower and the JS Luwansa Hotel and Convention Center which will once again be the Official Hotel of the tournament, providing hospitality and accommodation for players and tournament officials.
Sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the PGA Tour of Indonesia (PGTI), the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters will feature 24 Indonesian golfers, 20 professionals from the PGTI and four of Indonesia’s top amateurs who will compete in the 150 player field over 72 holes of individual stroke play.
The occasion was marked by the confirmation of three star players who will feature in 2015 edition of the tournament, in defending champion Anirban Lahiri from India, former World No. 1 Lee Westwood, and European Tour and Ryder Cup veteran, Thomas Bjorn from Denmark.
The three players will join a stellar 150 player field when the US$ 750,000 Asian Tour tournament returns to the beautiful surroundings of the Royale Jakarta Golf Club from April 23-26 this year.
27 year old Lahiri will be hoping to pick up where he left off last April, when he eagled the last hole of the tournament to claim a one shot victory over Baek Seuk-hyun of Korea and 2014 Rookie of the Year Cameron Smith of Australia.
Lahiri notched up a second victory in Macau and a further six top-ten finishes in a year that culminated with a second place finish on the Asian Tour Order of Merit and being voted 2014 Players’ Player of the Year for his exploits on the Asian Tour.
Speaking about his title defense in Jakarta, Lahiri said, “2014 was a very special year but it was this tournament where it really came together and set me up for the rest of the year. The eagle on the last hole is a putt I will never forget, so I have very happy memories of the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters and look forward to coming back to defend my title. It’s always a very competitive tournament and a great event.”
Two time tournament champion and veteran of 41 professional wins, Lee Westwood will be looking to prove that experience counts over youth as he looks to make it three wins at the tournament he claimed back to back victories at in 2011 and 2012. Coinciding with his birthday, landing the hat trick in Jakarta would be a welcome start to his 42nd year.
“The CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters is a tournament that I know well and, having won twice there, I have always felt very comfortable. It’s a great course and CIMB Niaga stage a truly first class tournament. I would love to make it a hat trick of wins.” added the Englishman.
Meanwhile Denmark’s Bjorn will be hoping to rediscover the form that has seen him land prestigious titles including the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles and Omega European Masters in a professional career that began back in 1993.
The veteran of six victorious European Ryder Cup campaigns said, “I’m looking forward to making my debut at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club. I’ve heard good things about the tournament and look forward to lining up alongside Anirban and Lee in April. The tournament comes quickly after the Masters so I’ll be looking for a good result in Indonesia to serve as a springboard for a successful summer in Europe.”
Speaking on behalf of the tournament sponsor, Arwin Rasyid, President Director of CIMB Niaga said, “2015 is a special year for the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters. It marks the fifth year of the tournament as well as four years of CIMB Niaga’s involvement. During that time, the tournament has grown in stature, attracting both the best players on the Asian Tour as well as some of the most recognized names in the history of the modern game who come to compete in Indonesia.
“In addition to our continued support for junior golf development in Indonesia, it is our hope that the tournament will inspire a future generation of Indonesians to fulfill their potential as players and represent our country on the world stage in years to come”, added Arwin.
Asian Tour Chairman Kyi Hla Han said, “Through CIMB Niaga’s commitment and sponsorship, the Indonesian Masters has grown into one of the most popular events on our schedule since 2011 where it has attracted many leading stars. The exciting event is also an important fixture for the Indonesian golfers as it provides them with the opportunity to play against the best players from the Asian Tour and also the world.”
The countdown clock will be on public display between now and the tournament at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club, CIMB Tower and the JS Luwansa Hotel and Convention Center which will once again be the Official Hotel of the tournament, providing hospitality and accommodation for players and tournament officials.
Sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the PGA Tour of Indonesia (PGTI), the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters will feature 24 Indonesian golfers, 20 professionals from the PGTI and four of Indonesia’s top amateurs who will compete in the 150 player field over 72 holes of individual stroke play.
Friday, December 19, 2014
2015 Indonesian Masters Set For 23-26 April
Jakarta, December 18 - PT Bank CIMB Niaga Tbk (CIMB Niaga) as the title sponsor, Asian Tour and Professional Golf Tour of Indonesia (PGTI) today announced that the 2015 CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters will return to the magnificent Royale Jakarta Golf Club from April 23-26, 2015.
The fifth edition of the Asian Tour-sanctioned event will welcome top players from across the region as they vie for a share of the US$750,000 prize purse.
President Director of CIMB Niaga Arwin Rasyid said: “We are delighted to continue our sponsorship of the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters which will be held from April 23-26, 2015. In its five years, we’ve had some fantastic winners in the past with Lee Westwood, Bernd Wiesberger and Anirban Lahiri in April this year. We’re all eagerly looking forward to seeing who will come out on top at the 2015 tournament.
“As one the leading banks here in Indonesia, we are committed to growing our ties with the local community through our youth development and amateur league programs in the country. The CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters has been a fantastic opportunity for the bank to give back to the community in the past three years. We look forward to working with the organizers on another fantastic event in 2015.
Chairman of Professional Golf Tour Indonesia Johannes Dermawan thanked CIMB Niaga for their continued support of the tournament. “We’re extremely fortunate to have such an active and supportive partner as CIMB Niaga. Our partnership has enabled the tournament to grow, attracting some of the biggest names in world golf to play alongside our own golfers from Indonesia. CIMB Niaga’s youth programme has also been hugely successful in developing the sport and it is wonderful to have a sponsor who is so committed to the junior game.”
The tournament will be broadcast live across the Asian Tour TV platform, reaching 625 million households in over 180 countries thereby showcasing Indonesia to a global audience.
Asian Tour Chairman Kyi Hla Han said: “On behalf of our players, I would like to express our sincere appreciation to CIMB Niaga for its wonderful support. Since its launch, the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters has developed into a truly top-class international golf tournament that the country can be proud of. Our players are looking forward to returning in 2015 and entertaining golf fans and television viewers once again.”
Manager of International Promotion for Enjoy Jakarta Hari Wibowo, commented: “Major sporting and cultural events are a wonderful way to promote our beautiful country worldwide. The CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters is one such event. The broadcast of the tournament enables us to reach golfers and non-golfers alike, encouraging them to come and visit Indonesia.”
Hari added: “Golf tourism is extremely important for Indonesia’s growing tourism industry. Events like the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters play a very important role in driving this traffic and the associated revenue so we will work very closely with the tournament to ensure maximum impact across the region. We look forward to welcoming all visitors to the event next year.”
Sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the PGTI, the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters will feature 24 Indonesian golfers; 20 professionals from the PGTI and four of Indonesia’s top amateurs. Previous editions have welcomed Indonesia’s brightest professionals and amateurs such as George Gandranata, Rory Hie, Jordan Irawan, Andik Mauludin and Tirto Tamardi.
Besides fostering local talents, the tournament also has a tradition of hosting many of the world’s top golfers including the winner of the 2011 and 2012 tournament, Lee Westwood of England, four-time Major Champion Ernie Els, three-time Asian Tour Order of Merit Winner Thonghchai Jaidee of Thailand, 2011 Open Champion Darren Clarke, 2010 Open Champion Louis Oosthuizen and Ryder Cup star Victor Dubuisson of France.
The 2014 tournament was won in spectacular style by Anirban Lahiri of India when he holed an eagle putt on the last hole to defeat Baek Seuk-hyun of Korea and young Australian Cameron Smith. The victory was Lahiri’s first win outside India and his fourth on the Asian Tour.
The fifth edition of the Asian Tour-sanctioned event will welcome top players from across the region as they vie for a share of the US$750,000 prize purse.
President Director of CIMB Niaga Arwin Rasyid said: “We are delighted to continue our sponsorship of the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters which will be held from April 23-26, 2015. In its five years, we’ve had some fantastic winners in the past with Lee Westwood, Bernd Wiesberger and Anirban Lahiri in April this year. We’re all eagerly looking forward to seeing who will come out on top at the 2015 tournament.
“As one the leading banks here in Indonesia, we are committed to growing our ties with the local community through our youth development and amateur league programs in the country. The CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters has been a fantastic opportunity for the bank to give back to the community in the past three years. We look forward to working with the organizers on another fantastic event in 2015.
Chairman of Professional Golf Tour Indonesia Johannes Dermawan thanked CIMB Niaga for their continued support of the tournament. “We’re extremely fortunate to have such an active and supportive partner as CIMB Niaga. Our partnership has enabled the tournament to grow, attracting some of the biggest names in world golf to play alongside our own golfers from Indonesia. CIMB Niaga’s youth programme has also been hugely successful in developing the sport and it is wonderful to have a sponsor who is so committed to the junior game.”
The tournament will be broadcast live across the Asian Tour TV platform, reaching 625 million households in over 180 countries thereby showcasing Indonesia to a global audience.
Asian Tour Chairman Kyi Hla Han said: “On behalf of our players, I would like to express our sincere appreciation to CIMB Niaga for its wonderful support. Since its launch, the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters has developed into a truly top-class international golf tournament that the country can be proud of. Our players are looking forward to returning in 2015 and entertaining golf fans and television viewers once again.”
Manager of International Promotion for Enjoy Jakarta Hari Wibowo, commented: “Major sporting and cultural events are a wonderful way to promote our beautiful country worldwide. The CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters is one such event. The broadcast of the tournament enables us to reach golfers and non-golfers alike, encouraging them to come and visit Indonesia.”
Hari added: “Golf tourism is extremely important for Indonesia’s growing tourism industry. Events like the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters play a very important role in driving this traffic and the associated revenue so we will work very closely with the tournament to ensure maximum impact across the region. We look forward to welcoming all visitors to the event next year.”
Sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the PGTI, the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters will feature 24 Indonesian golfers; 20 professionals from the PGTI and four of Indonesia’s top amateurs. Previous editions have welcomed Indonesia’s brightest professionals and amateurs such as George Gandranata, Rory Hie, Jordan Irawan, Andik Mauludin and Tirto Tamardi.
Besides fostering local talents, the tournament also has a tradition of hosting many of the world’s top golfers including the winner of the 2011 and 2012 tournament, Lee Westwood of England, four-time Major Champion Ernie Els, three-time Asian Tour Order of Merit Winner Thonghchai Jaidee of Thailand, 2011 Open Champion Darren Clarke, 2010 Open Champion Louis Oosthuizen and Ryder Cup star Victor Dubuisson of France.
The 2014 tournament was won in spectacular style by Anirban Lahiri of India when he holed an eagle putt on the last hole to defeat Baek Seuk-hyun of Korea and young Australian Cameron Smith. The victory was Lahiri’s first win outside India and his fourth on the Asian Tour.
Monday, October 27, 2014
2014 Indonesian Masters Winner Lahiri Adds Venetian Macau Open Crown
Macau, October 26 - Indian star Anirban Lahiri claimed a sensational one-stroke victory at the US$900,000 Venetian Macau Open after frontrunner Scott Hend of Australia agonizingly bogeyed the last hole on Sunday.
Lahiri started the final round two shots behind overnight leader Hend and trailed by four at one stage at the Macau Golf and Country Club before rallying on the home stretch to pip Hend and Thailand’s Prom Meesawat.
The 27-year-old Indian signed for a final round of five-under-par 66, which included six birdies, and a winning aggregate of 17-under-par 267. The winner’s cheque of US$162,000 raised his season’s tally to US$504,689 as he consolidated his second place on the Asian Tour’s Order of Merit and narrowed the gap on leader David Lipsky of the United States.
Hend, the defending champion who arrived in Macau in top form after winning the Hong Kong Open last week, lipped out a par putt from four feet on the 72nd hole as the roles reversed from last year’s edition where Lahiri was the runner-up. Hend settled for a 69 while Prom charged up the leaderboard with a 66.
“It’s really special. Hendy was playing great golf and it was sad to see him missing that putt on the last,” said Lahiri, who secured his second win of the season and fifth Asian Tour victory. Earlier this year he won the CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters at Royale Jakarta Golf Club.
“I knew he was playing some good golf and I told myself that I was going to keep coming back, keep coming back and keep attacking. I wanted to make him think I was not going to go away. I think I played really well.”
Hend took charge early on and doubled his overnight lead to four shots after nailing an eagle on two and a birdie on seven. However, a tenacious Lahiri fought back with birdies on eight and nine to make the turn only two back. The pivotal moment came on 14 when Lahiri hit a superb seven iron into the par three hole for an easy birdie while Hend bogeyed.
Lahiri, who had opened his campaign with a stunning 61 on Thursday, then led for the first time in the final round with a birdie on 15 but Hend leveled with a birdie at the next hole until his slip-up at the last.
“I hit a perfect golf shot on 14,” said Lahiri. “I had just missed a putt at the previous hole and I knew I needed a birdie to catch Hendy and that was just magic the way it came down. I hit a seven iron as hard and high as I could and it came out perfect. One of the best shots of the week.
“I was chasing all day and on 14, that’s where the momentum switched a bit. It’s fantastic to win my second of the year. I missed the cut last week (in Hong Kong) after a long time so I had time to think about what I was doing wrong and how was I was not thinking positively on the course. I’m happy I managed to turn that around.”
Hend was disappointed he missed his par putt which would have forced a play-off and also the opportunity to join China’s Zhang Lian-wei as the only two-time Venetian Macau Open champion.
“I hit too many loose shots and then on the last hole, I had a lip out which I thought I put a good putt on it. Unfortunately it lipped out. I looked up to see it lipping out. I thought I had made the putt,” said Hend.
“To be honest, the tournament had slipped as the tee shot wasn’t in play. I had to hit the fairway which would have made it a lot easier but I missed the fairway which made my job a little bit harder.”
Prom came home strongly in 32 but fell one short shy of forcing a play-off. He rued a roller-coaster start where he went bogey, birdie, bogey, birdie in his opening four holes. “I had a good back nine but it was up and down in the first four holes. But to finish on five under for the round, I’m happy. My goal was to stay inside the top-three. It was not going to be easy to catch Hendy or Anirban,” said Prom.
George Gandranata closed out the tournament with a round of 74, finishing with a total of 288 at 4 over par. The final 9 holes for the Indonesian were he lost most with a double bogey on the 10th and bogeys on 12, 16 and 17. Luckily 2 birdies on 15 and the final hole kept him from losing too much.
Meanwhile, The Venetian Macao® has extended its title sponsorship of the Venetian Macau Open for a further two years until 2016 following its successful association with Macau’s premier golf championship this week. The Macau Sport Development Board (MSDB) and its partners, the Asian Tour, Macau Golf Association and IMG, jointly announced that next year’s edition will return to the Macau Golf and Country Club from October 15-18, 2015.
Sponsors joining The Venetian Macao in support of the tournament include Rolex, Air Macau, Blue Girl, Lamborghini and Hong Kong Descente, which carries both the Le Coq Sportif Golf Collection, Twinwoods Wine and Munsingwear.
Scores after round 4 of the Venetian Macau Open 2014:
267 – Anirban LAHIRI (IND) 61-73-67-66
268 – Prom MEESAWAT (THA) 68-70-64-66, Scott HEND (AUS) 62-70-67-69
270 – Adam GROOM (AUS) 65-67-72-66
272 – Berry HENSON (USA) 69-70-68-65, Unho PARK (AUS) 70-69-68-65
273 – Thaworn WIRATCHANT (THA) 67-70-67-69
274 – Shiv KAPUR (IND) 73-67-67-67
275 – Kieran PRATT (AUS) 70-69-68-68
Selected:
281 - Ernie ELS (RSA) 70-72-69-70
288 - George GANDRANATA (INA) 72-70-72-74
Lahiri started the final round two shots behind overnight leader Hend and trailed by four at one stage at the Macau Golf and Country Club before rallying on the home stretch to pip Hend and Thailand’s Prom Meesawat.
The 27-year-old Indian signed for a final round of five-under-par 66, which included six birdies, and a winning aggregate of 17-under-par 267. The winner’s cheque of US$162,000 raised his season’s tally to US$504,689 as he consolidated his second place on the Asian Tour’s Order of Merit and narrowed the gap on leader David Lipsky of the United States.
Hend, the defending champion who arrived in Macau in top form after winning the Hong Kong Open last week, lipped out a par putt from four feet on the 72nd hole as the roles reversed from last year’s edition where Lahiri was the runner-up. Hend settled for a 69 while Prom charged up the leaderboard with a 66.
“It’s really special. Hendy was playing great golf and it was sad to see him missing that putt on the last,” said Lahiri, who secured his second win of the season and fifth Asian Tour victory. Earlier this year he won the CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters at Royale Jakarta Golf Club.
“I knew he was playing some good golf and I told myself that I was going to keep coming back, keep coming back and keep attacking. I wanted to make him think I was not going to go away. I think I played really well.”
Hend took charge early on and doubled his overnight lead to four shots after nailing an eagle on two and a birdie on seven. However, a tenacious Lahiri fought back with birdies on eight and nine to make the turn only two back. The pivotal moment came on 14 when Lahiri hit a superb seven iron into the par three hole for an easy birdie while Hend bogeyed.
Lahiri, who had opened his campaign with a stunning 61 on Thursday, then led for the first time in the final round with a birdie on 15 but Hend leveled with a birdie at the next hole until his slip-up at the last.
“I hit a perfect golf shot on 14,” said Lahiri. “I had just missed a putt at the previous hole and I knew I needed a birdie to catch Hendy and that was just magic the way it came down. I hit a seven iron as hard and high as I could and it came out perfect. One of the best shots of the week.
“I was chasing all day and on 14, that’s where the momentum switched a bit. It’s fantastic to win my second of the year. I missed the cut last week (in Hong Kong) after a long time so I had time to think about what I was doing wrong and how was I was not thinking positively on the course. I’m happy I managed to turn that around.”
Hend was disappointed he missed his par putt which would have forced a play-off and also the opportunity to join China’s Zhang Lian-wei as the only two-time Venetian Macau Open champion.
“I hit too many loose shots and then on the last hole, I had a lip out which I thought I put a good putt on it. Unfortunately it lipped out. I looked up to see it lipping out. I thought I had made the putt,” said Hend.
“To be honest, the tournament had slipped as the tee shot wasn’t in play. I had to hit the fairway which would have made it a lot easier but I missed the fairway which made my job a little bit harder.”
Prom came home strongly in 32 but fell one short shy of forcing a play-off. He rued a roller-coaster start where he went bogey, birdie, bogey, birdie in his opening four holes. “I had a good back nine but it was up and down in the first four holes. But to finish on five under for the round, I’m happy. My goal was to stay inside the top-three. It was not going to be easy to catch Hendy or Anirban,” said Prom.
George Gandranata closed out the tournament with a round of 74, finishing with a total of 288 at 4 over par. The final 9 holes for the Indonesian were he lost most with a double bogey on the 10th and bogeys on 12, 16 and 17. Luckily 2 birdies on 15 and the final hole kept him from losing too much.
Meanwhile, The Venetian Macao® has extended its title sponsorship of the Venetian Macau Open for a further two years until 2016 following its successful association with Macau’s premier golf championship this week. The Macau Sport Development Board (MSDB) and its partners, the Asian Tour, Macau Golf Association and IMG, jointly announced that next year’s edition will return to the Macau Golf and Country Club from October 15-18, 2015.
Sponsors joining The Venetian Macao in support of the tournament include Rolex, Air Macau, Blue Girl, Lamborghini and Hong Kong Descente, which carries both the Le Coq Sportif Golf Collection, Twinwoods Wine and Munsingwear.
Scores after round 4 of the Venetian Macau Open 2014:
267 – Anirban LAHIRI (IND) 61-73-67-66
268 – Prom MEESAWAT (THA) 68-70-64-66, Scott HEND (AUS) 62-70-67-69
270 – Adam GROOM (AUS) 65-67-72-66
272 – Berry HENSON (USA) 69-70-68-65, Unho PARK (AUS) 70-69-68-65
273 – Thaworn WIRATCHANT (THA) 67-70-67-69
274 – Shiv KAPUR (IND) 73-67-67-67
275 – Kieran PRATT (AUS) 70-69-68-68
Selected:
281 - Ernie ELS (RSA) 70-72-69-70
288 - George GANDRANATA (INA) 72-70-72-74
Friday, October 24, 2014
George Gandranata Holds His Own At Venetian Macau Open
Macau, October 24 - Title holder Scott Hend stayed in the hunt for a second straight victory with a battling one-under-par 70 giving him the early second round lead at the US$900,000 Venetian Macau Open on Friday.
The big-hitting Aussie, who triumphed at the Hong Kong Open last week, birdied his last hole, the ninth, from close range for a two-day total of 10-under-par 132, which was one shot ahead of Switzerland’s Martin Rominger, who shot into contention with a 68.
Overnight leader Anirban Lahiri of India settled for 73 to slip to two shots back of the new leader while Thailand’s Pariya Junasavasdikul shot the morning’s best score of 67 as the Macau Golf and Country Club bared its fangs with swirling winds causing problems to the field.
Hend, 41, has continued to show the fine form which led him to a sixth Asian Tour victory last weekend. He dropped two shots in his first seven holes before clawing his way back with four birdies against another bogey.
“It was quite benign yesterday and today, we’ve seen what can happen out here. If the wind blows like this, you just try to hold on to your score and that’s pretty much what the whole group was doing. We were struggling. You have to play conservatively and hopefully roll in some putts. Everyone will make a bogey,” said Hend.
“Sometimes it’s two and a half club difference. Even on the par fives on the back nine, with the exception of 18, it’s ridiculously difficult. You’ve just got to sit back and adjust your game plan. If I had made 18 pars, I would have been ecstatic. To come in with one under I’m quite happy. It’s quite difficult, it was very tricky.”
He does not want to think too far ahead in his hopes of joining Zhang Lian-wei of China as the only men to win two Venetian Macau Open titles.
“It’s Friday, it’s 36 holes to go. I’m just plodding along. Today was just the trotting day. No galloping, just trotting,” he smiled.
“It’s put me in a strong position. It’s ice to play solid in the first two rounds and be there abouts and not having to shoot ridiculous scores in the weekend like last year to try to win the tournament. Like today, I could afford to not shoot five or six under. Now, everyone else will have to catch up.”
Rominger, lying in 55th place on the Order of Merit, thanked his wife Simona for his good week in Macau so far. She previously caddied for him regularly when he first came out to play on the Asian Tour but stopped her on-course duties when they started a family.
“It’s the first time in a while and she’s doing a good job. She doesn’t come from golf and I’ve taught her everything. She’s the best caddy for me. She knows exactly what I like and I taught her what I like in a caddy,” said Rominger, who is seeking a first Asian Tour victory.
“Today is the old Macau that we know. It was a bit gusty and windy and I played nicely, I’m happy. I did everything well, only one poor shot on the second shot into six where I plugged in the bunker and made double. The rest I played solid. Putted very good and made a lot of putts. It’s a good two days now.”
Lahiri, winner of the Indonesian Masters at Royale Jakarta Golf Club earlier this year and second on the Order of Merit, was disappointed to take 12 shots more than his opening’s 61 as he posted three birdies against five bogeys.
“Conditions were not like yesterday, and it was windy but still it was not that hard,” said the Indian star.
“The greens were quicker and I couldn’t get my speed right with the putts. I couldn’t adjust to them. I’m playing well but I need to tighten up some loose ends. I’m still in with a great chance in the tournament.”
South African star Ernie Els, who is an honorary member and international ambassador of the Asian Tour, should squeeze into the weekend rounds after saving bogey on his last hole from four feet.
“I was battling on the whole back nine. I started on the first and made bogey and bogeyed the second which is a birdie-able hole. I knew I couldn’t be more than even par. On nine, I never saw the branch which I hit. I knew I had to make the putt to make the cut or hopefully make the cut,” said Els, who played alongside Hend.
“Hopefully I can play some better golf. I’m not pleased. I love the course. It’s in great shape and I like something in the red if I play this weekend. I think I can make improvements everywhere. I’m putting well. Last week, I struggled with some putts and hit the ball well but this week, the swing is not quite there. If I can get it on the greens in regulation, I can make some birdies.”
George Gandranata, Indonesia's current number one player, also just made the cut by coming in at 1-under today, for a 2 round even par score. William Sjaichuddin, the only other Indonesian player at this event, had to retire.
Leading scores after second round (Par 71):
132 - Scott HEND (AUS) 62-70, Adam GROOM (AUS) 65-67
133 - Martin ROMINGER (SUI) 65-68
134 - Anirban LAHIRI (IND) 61-73, CHAN Shih-Chang (TWN) 70-64
136 - Pariya JUNHASAVASDIKUL (THA) 69-67
137 - Sam BRAZEL (AUS) 64-73, Daniel CHOPRA (SWE) 69-68, Thaworn WIRATCHANT (THA) 67-70, Jaakko MAKITALO (FIN) 69-68
Selected:
142 - Ernie ELS (RSA) 70-72, George GANDRANATA (INA) 72-70
The big-hitting Aussie, who triumphed at the Hong Kong Open last week, birdied his last hole, the ninth, from close range for a two-day total of 10-under-par 132, which was one shot ahead of Switzerland’s Martin Rominger, who shot into contention with a 68.
Overnight leader Anirban Lahiri of India settled for 73 to slip to two shots back of the new leader while Thailand’s Pariya Junasavasdikul shot the morning’s best score of 67 as the Macau Golf and Country Club bared its fangs with swirling winds causing problems to the field.
Hend, 41, has continued to show the fine form which led him to a sixth Asian Tour victory last weekend. He dropped two shots in his first seven holes before clawing his way back with four birdies against another bogey.
“It was quite benign yesterday and today, we’ve seen what can happen out here. If the wind blows like this, you just try to hold on to your score and that’s pretty much what the whole group was doing. We were struggling. You have to play conservatively and hopefully roll in some putts. Everyone will make a bogey,” said Hend.
“Sometimes it’s two and a half club difference. Even on the par fives on the back nine, with the exception of 18, it’s ridiculously difficult. You’ve just got to sit back and adjust your game plan. If I had made 18 pars, I would have been ecstatic. To come in with one under I’m quite happy. It’s quite difficult, it was very tricky.”
He does not want to think too far ahead in his hopes of joining Zhang Lian-wei of China as the only men to win two Venetian Macau Open titles.
“It’s Friday, it’s 36 holes to go. I’m just plodding along. Today was just the trotting day. No galloping, just trotting,” he smiled.
“It’s put me in a strong position. It’s ice to play solid in the first two rounds and be there abouts and not having to shoot ridiculous scores in the weekend like last year to try to win the tournament. Like today, I could afford to not shoot five or six under. Now, everyone else will have to catch up.”
Rominger, lying in 55th place on the Order of Merit, thanked his wife Simona for his good week in Macau so far. She previously caddied for him regularly when he first came out to play on the Asian Tour but stopped her on-course duties when they started a family.
“It’s the first time in a while and she’s doing a good job. She doesn’t come from golf and I’ve taught her everything. She’s the best caddy for me. She knows exactly what I like and I taught her what I like in a caddy,” said Rominger, who is seeking a first Asian Tour victory.
“Today is the old Macau that we know. It was a bit gusty and windy and I played nicely, I’m happy. I did everything well, only one poor shot on the second shot into six where I plugged in the bunker and made double. The rest I played solid. Putted very good and made a lot of putts. It’s a good two days now.”
Lahiri, winner of the Indonesian Masters at Royale Jakarta Golf Club earlier this year and second on the Order of Merit, was disappointed to take 12 shots more than his opening’s 61 as he posted three birdies against five bogeys.
“Conditions were not like yesterday, and it was windy but still it was not that hard,” said the Indian star.
“The greens were quicker and I couldn’t get my speed right with the putts. I couldn’t adjust to them. I’m playing well but I need to tighten up some loose ends. I’m still in with a great chance in the tournament.”
South African star Ernie Els, who is an honorary member and international ambassador of the Asian Tour, should squeeze into the weekend rounds after saving bogey on his last hole from four feet.
“I was battling on the whole back nine. I started on the first and made bogey and bogeyed the second which is a birdie-able hole. I knew I couldn’t be more than even par. On nine, I never saw the branch which I hit. I knew I had to make the putt to make the cut or hopefully make the cut,” said Els, who played alongside Hend.
“Hopefully I can play some better golf. I’m not pleased. I love the course. It’s in great shape and I like something in the red if I play this weekend. I think I can make improvements everywhere. I’m putting well. Last week, I struggled with some putts and hit the ball well but this week, the swing is not quite there. If I can get it on the greens in regulation, I can make some birdies.”
George Gandranata, Indonesia's current number one player, also just made the cut by coming in at 1-under today, for a 2 round even par score. William Sjaichuddin, the only other Indonesian player at this event, had to retire.
Leading scores after second round (Par 71):
132 - Scott HEND (AUS) 62-70, Adam GROOM (AUS) 65-67
133 - Martin ROMINGER (SUI) 65-68
134 - Anirban LAHIRI (IND) 61-73, CHAN Shih-Chang (TWN) 70-64
136 - Pariya JUNHASAVASDIKUL (THA) 69-67
137 - Sam BRAZEL (AUS) 64-73, Daniel CHOPRA (SWE) 69-68, Thaworn WIRATCHANT (THA) 67-70, Jaakko MAKITALO (FIN) 69-68
Selected:
142 - Ernie ELS (RSA) 70-72, George GANDRANATA (INA) 72-70
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Gandranata's Game Change Pays Off At CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters
Before coming to the tournament, Gandranata decided to move away from his usual aggressive approach and play more conservatively.
That change in tactics saw him emerge as the sole Indonesian to have made the weekend cut, which was the first in three attempts for the 28-year-old at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club.
“I decided to play a little more conservative this time round and I didn’t attack as much as I did in the past. My caddy and I discussed about how to attack the course on the day before we came for the practice round. I did some work with my coach as well. I am happy the plan worked out for me,” added Gandranata.
Although he posted a four-day total of one-under-par 287 to finish in tie-44th place, Gandranata, who is Indonesia’s highest ranked golfer, was thankful for the huge support he received from the local crowd.
“It has been a great week. I obtained my first goal which was to make the cut but didn’t achieve my second goal which is to get into contention. My worst round this week is better than my best round in the last two years! The local crowd has been very supportive and I hope I did not disappoint them,” said Gandranata, who mixed his card with four birdies against three bogeys.
Since turning professional in 2012, Gandranata has been playing regularly on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) which he claimed has been a great learning platform to hone his game.
“Playing on the ADT has obviously helped a lot in my game. The competition on the ADT is getting better and better. You gained the experience from getting into contention in ADT events which is the closest you get to Asian Tour events. It has been a great learning experience,” said Gandranata.
While he is determined to perform well on the premier Asian Tour and the ADT, Gandranata is ready to lend his support for the new domestic Tour- Professional Golf Tour of Indonesia (PGTI).
“My plan for the remaining of the season is to get into as many Asian Tour events as I can. I will continue to play on the ADT as well as the new domestic Tour which I have mentioned earlier. I want to be there for the new Tour and give it all the support I can to help it grow,” said Gandranata.
Last Hole Drama As Lahiri Takes Crown At CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters
The 26-year-old Indian, who is getting married next month, survived a gamut of emotions on the final day before breaking away from the chasing pack to seal victory with a four-under-par 68 at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club.
Korea’s Baek Seuk-hyun enjoyed a stroke of fortune despite carrying an elbow injury when he finished second alongside Australian rookie Cameron Smith after signing off with a 65.
Reigning Asian Tour Order of Merit winner Kiradech Aphibarnrat of Thailand showed he is inching his way back into the winner’s circle again with a fourth placed finish at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters which celebrated yet another successful conclusion to the fourth edition of the prestigious event in Indonesia.
Arwin Rasyid, President Director of CIMB Niaga said, “On behalf of CIMB Niaga and all the other sponsors and partners of the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters 2014, I would like to give my heartfelt congratulations to Anirban Lahiri.
He played very well and was amazing to watch. This year’s event has been another huge success and we are very happy to conclude on such a high note. We look forward to being a part of the future editions of the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters and bringing you the best of golf right here at Royale Jakarta Golf Club. See you all next year!”
Starting the day trailing by a single shot behind Smith, Lahiri went out quickly by firing three successive birdies starting from the second hole.
However a double-bogey six on 13 after a lengthy three-hour rain delay saw the Indian ride out a tense finish as a host of marquee players from the Asian Tour were wrestling for the lead then.
“I had an awkward lie on 13. During the rain delay I was just thinking that I have to get up and down there. I got a bad break there but I know Lin Wen-tang dropped a shot as well. Unfortunately I got a double bogey there but I am glad I came back strong,” said Lahiri.
With Baek holding the clubhouse lead at 16-under, Lahiri knew he had to produce a superlative effort on 18 to get the outright win.
“My mind was blank when I prepared for the last putt on 18. All I told myself was I had to get it into the hole. When I was walking up to the greens, I was actually thinking if I need to prepare for a playoff tomorrow morning,” said Lahiri.
The Lahiri did not disappoint and screamed in delight when he watched his 20-ft eagle putt sink into the hole for a winning total of 17-under-par 271.
“It’s really great to get my first win outside of India. I have missed out on it for a long time and I am so glad I managed to do it today. I need the world ranking points so I am really happy I can win this week,” said Lahiri.
Although Baek missed out on a grandstand finish, the Korean took pride in his battling performance which saw him pipped to his maiden title by a single shot by Lahiri.
“I actually thought of withdrawing just before the start of the first round this week. On the first day, I told my caddy if I can par the first hole, I will continue to play. I managed to do that and I moved on with my game.
On the second day, I thought I should just try and make the cut. I have no confidence at all. Until today, I didn’t expect myself to do so well. My elbow got better so I just try and focus on my game. I didn’t look at the leaderboard because I don’t want to give myself any pressure,” said Baek, who carded rounds of 71,68, 68 and 65.
Meanwhile overnight leader Smith believes his game will only get better as he savors his best performance at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters since graduating from the Asian Tour Qualifying School earlier in the year.
“This is my best result so far in a professional tournament. It would have been good to win but I guess this is just another day. This has definitely boosted my confidence in my game.
I hit the ball and putted well. There is not much more that you can really do. I am looking forward to the next tournament on the Asian Tour already,” said the 20-year-old rookie.
Despite closing his campaign two shots back of Lahiri, Kiradech believes he can be the man to watch again after a stellar 2013 season where he was crowned Asia’s number one.
“With my current ball striking, I think I can win a tournament on the Asian Tour soon! It has been a year since I last won. I’m confident it will come soon, maybe next week! I just have to continue to stay the way I am striking the ball,” said Kiradech.
Leading scores after round 4 of the CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters being played at the par 72, 7340 Yards Royale Jakarta GC course:
271 - Anirban LAHIRI (IND) 70-69-64-68
272 - BAEK Seuk-hyun (KOR) 71-68-68-65, Cameron SMITH (AUS) 68-67-67-70
273 - Kiradech APHIBARNRAT (THA) 71-69-65-68
274 - Thongchai JAIDEE (THA) 71-72-67-64, Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA) 68-70-69-67, LIN Wen-tang (TPE) 70-64-72-68, S.S.P CHOWRASIA (IND) 71-66-69-68
275 - Rashid KHAN (IND) 70-70-64-71
276 - Chapchai NIRAT (THA) 68-68-72-68, Bernd WIESBERGER (AUT) 68-71-69-68, Gunn CHAROENKUL (THA) 70-69-67-70
Saturday, April 26, 2014
George Gandranata Aims To Finish On A High At CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters
As the sole Indonesian to have made the weekend cut at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters, Gandranata struggled to a three-over-par 75 but is determined to end his week at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club with a flourish.
Despite returning with a disappointing score, Gandranata is thankful for all the support he received from the home crowd this week.
“It has been a really good experience playing in this big event. I got a lot of support from the home crowd which is really helpful for me. I was having a tough time today but they cheered me up,” added Indonesia’s highest ranked golfer.
Gandranata believes more Indonesians can make a similar impact on the Asian Tour if they take advantage of the playing opportunities available.
He has been honing his game on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) since turning professional in 2012 and the results are beginning to show as he finally made the cut for the first time in two appearances at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters.
“I know I am the only Indonesian who made the cut but I will try not to think too much and get stressed about that. Golf is golf. I think the most important thing is to stay focused and concentrate on playing one shot at a time. I am pretty sure we will get to see more Indonesians making the cut in future. We have a new Tour so I am confident the standard of golf in Indonesia will continue to grow,” said Gandranata.
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