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.
Showing posts with label Tirto Tamardi. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tirto Tamardi. Show all posts
Saturday, April 30, 2016
Saturday, July 11, 2015
Benita Kasiadi Takes Second Title At IGT @ Gading Raya
JAKARTA, July 9 - Do not give up until the last ball is being played. This motto was representative for Benita Y. Kasiadi appearance in the final round of the Indonesian Golf Tour Series IV, which took place from July 7 to 9 at Gading Raya Padang Golf & Klub, Serpong, Tangerang. Starting the final round 3 shots behind leader Rinaldi Adiyandono, he even fell behind as much as six strokes after the first nine holes. He finally caught up pace gradually until it he equaled Rinaldi's score at the final hole. Both accumulated a score of ten-under par (206).
This fight is reminiscent of the duel the duo fought in the Grand Final of the Indonesian Golf Tour presented by Linc Group 2014 at Imperial Klub Golf in December last year. The difference that that time Rinaldi won the final with a one-shot lead over Benita.
This time, the duel was repeated. With the winner being determined through the play-offs. Rinaldi missed a ball from a distance of 2 meters for a birdie putt to clinch victory with his first putt. He also missed his second putt which would have forced a second play-off hole. He had to finish with a three putt making bogey.
In contrary Benita recorded a par to take his second title at the 2015 IGT. It became a memorable victory for Benita when winning in IGT Series I at the Matoa Nasional Golf Club, Ciganjur, mid January. This time, he did not predict he would win, including bringing home the prize money of Rp32 million.
"The target is still to play by managing the course. Play 4-5 under. If not winning so be it. That means the opponent is better," said the son of Indonesian golf legend, Kasiadi.
On the second nine holes, Rinaldi made a bogey on hole 13. That put the difference between the two players at 3 shots, Rinaldi at 11-under and Benita at 8-under. Rinaldi tripped again on hole 16 for another bogey, while he only made par on holes 17 and 18. Benita actually posted two birdies in these hole. That meant play-offs had to be done, which was then won by Benita.
In the finishing shots of the game Rinaldi choked up. "I was shaking when hitting putts of two meters in the play-offs. I do not know why. In fact, I've been focused with my game plan. Did not think about a tie or play-off," said Rinaldi.
Meanwhile, in the amateurs, Tirto Tamardi established himself as the best in IGT 2015 Series IV. The golfer, who just fulfilled the task of representing his country at the 2015 SEA Games in Singapore, posted a total score of one-over par after closing the game on the final day with a two-in under par (70).
"I am quite satisfied with today's game, although my putting shots must be improved again," said the bronze medalist for the SEA Games team in 2015.
Tirto admitted this tournament series is a major influence in his game. "Participating in the IGT can improve you game, and gain knowledge from professionals," he said. He did not target anything when appearing in this professional event. "It becomes a means for self-evaluation," said the golfer born 8 April 1999.
The opportunity to learn from professionals was felt directly by Clement Kurniawan who played for the first time in the IGT and who became second runner up in IGT Series IV. Playing with Rory Hie for three days, Clement learned interesting things.
"A lot of knowledge that can be taken from Rory Hie. He was calmer, and learn how he hits. My first experience in IGT provides many positive lessons before I go back to America today. Hopefully next year I can join IGT again and win the tournament," he said.
Indonesian Golf Tour Series V will be held in Jababeka Golf & Country Club, Cikarang, on August 11 to 13.
This fight is reminiscent of the duel the duo fought in the Grand Final of the Indonesian Golf Tour presented by Linc Group 2014 at Imperial Klub Golf in December last year. The difference that that time Rinaldi won the final with a one-shot lead over Benita.
This time, the duel was repeated. With the winner being determined through the play-offs. Rinaldi missed a ball from a distance of 2 meters for a birdie putt to clinch victory with his first putt. He also missed his second putt which would have forced a second play-off hole. He had to finish with a three putt making bogey.
In contrary Benita recorded a par to take his second title at the 2015 IGT. It became a memorable victory for Benita when winning in IGT Series I at the Matoa Nasional Golf Club, Ciganjur, mid January. This time, he did not predict he would win, including bringing home the prize money of Rp32 million.
"The target is still to play by managing the course. Play 4-5 under. If not winning so be it. That means the opponent is better," said the son of Indonesian golf legend, Kasiadi.
On the second nine holes, Rinaldi made a bogey on hole 13. That put the difference between the two players at 3 shots, Rinaldi at 11-under and Benita at 8-under. Rinaldi tripped again on hole 16 for another bogey, while he only made par on holes 17 and 18. Benita actually posted two birdies in these hole. That meant play-offs had to be done, which was then won by Benita.
In the finishing shots of the game Rinaldi choked up. "I was shaking when hitting putts of two meters in the play-offs. I do not know why. In fact, I've been focused with my game plan. Did not think about a tie or play-off," said Rinaldi.
Meanwhile, in the amateurs, Tirto Tamardi established himself as the best in IGT 2015 Series IV. The golfer, who just fulfilled the task of representing his country at the 2015 SEA Games in Singapore, posted a total score of one-over par after closing the game on the final day with a two-in under par (70).
"I am quite satisfied with today's game, although my putting shots must be improved again," said the bronze medalist for the SEA Games team in 2015.
Tirto admitted this tournament series is a major influence in his game. "Participating in the IGT can improve you game, and gain knowledge from professionals," he said. He did not target anything when appearing in this professional event. "It becomes a means for self-evaluation," said the golfer born 8 April 1999.
The opportunity to learn from professionals was felt directly by Clement Kurniawan who played for the first time in the IGT and who became second runner up in IGT Series IV. Playing with Rory Hie for three days, Clement learned interesting things.
"A lot of knowledge that can be taken from Rory Hie. He was calmer, and learn how he hits. My first experience in IGT provides many positive lessons before I go back to America today. Hopefully next year I can join IGT again and win the tournament," he said.
Indonesian Golf Tour Series V will be held in Jababeka Golf & Country Club, Cikarang, on August 11 to 13.
Saturday, April 25, 2015
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)
Monday, March 23, 2015
Top 3 For Tirto Tamardi in Boys U16 Age Group At Faldo Series Asia Grand Final
Glory for Japan’s Kamasu
Shenzhen, China, March 20 - Keeping his cool in the heat of battle, Yuki Kamasu continued Japan’s recent domination of the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final with an assured final-round display at Mission Hills.
The 21-year-old underlined his potential with a polished performance over the acclaimed Nick Faldo-designed Faldo Course at Mission Hills Shenzhen, edging Czech Republic’s Simon Zach in a dramatic sudden-death play-off.
One shot ahead overnight, Kamasu closed with a three-under 69 for a 54-hole aggregate of nine-under 207. That total was matched by Zach, who carded a 68.
However, it was the Japanese who prevailed in extra time with a gutsy bogey-six at 18. There, he pushed his drive into the water but quickly recovered his composure to find the green with his fourth shot.
Nonetheless, at that point, Zach, in the center of the fairway less than 100 yards from the flag in two, appeared to hold the initiative.
But he then suffered the anguish of dunking two balls in the hazard in front of the green as the chance of becoming the first non-Asian winner of the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final slipped agonizingly from his grasp.
With his triumph in the ninth edition of the R&A World Amateur Golf Ranking event, Kamasu followed in the footsteps of Masamichi Ito and Mikumu Horikawa to become the tournament’s third Japanese champion in the past four years.
“This victory is important for me. It’s my first international win and is a big boost for my confidence and self-belief,” said Kamasu.
“I would like to thank Sir Nick for providing such an incredible opportunity and for hosting us all … and for sharing his knowledge and wisdom at the clinics he conducted.”
Six-time Major champion Sir Nick Faldo, Britain’s most successful golfer, said: “Yuki’s victory caps a fantastic week which has seen us bring together more than 80 young golfers from 18 countries around the world."
“The players are getting better every year and I am excited about the future as we continue our effort to grow the game of golf globally through the Faldo Series.”
American Zachary Bauchou, winner of the Faldo Series Grand Final at The Greenbrier in West Virginia, USA, last October, eagled the final hole to claim sole possession of third place, just one shot shy of joining the play-off.
Meanwhile, Zach, who was defeated by Bauchou in that play-off at The Greenbrier, had the consolation of winning the Boys’ Under-18 division.
Fadhli Rahman Soetarso finished in this group in 4th place and was the best placed Indonesian on a 9th place overall.
In the Girls’ Under-21 category, victory went to Princess Mary Superal of the Philippines with a score of three-under 213. Minami Hiruta, the reigning Japan Women’s Amateur champion, was runner-up on 216.
The Girls’ Under-16 winner was Japan’s Yumi Kudo, on a countback from China’s Liu Yan and New Zealander Brooke Hamilton. All three were tied at five-over 221.
China’s Cao Sen triumphed in the Boys’ Under-16 segment thanks to a sparkling closing 68, edging out Chinese Taipei’s Tsai Kai-jen on a countback after both finished on 213. Indonesia's Tirto Tamardi finished 2 shots back in third place, just outside the top 10 in the overall standings.
Cao also received the Mission Hills Trophy, presented by Mission Hills Vice Chairman Tenniel Chu to the leading Chinese player.
As well as receiving the Faldo Series Asia trophy, the overall winner will be granted an exemption into an Asian Tour event. The Girls’ winner will be given a start in a Ladies European Tour event.
Both will also earn themselves an overseas trip to compete in the Faldo Series Europe Grand Final.
Supported by The R&A and Mission Hills and endorsed by the Asian Tour and the Asia Pacific Golf Confederation, the 2014-15 Faldo Series Asia campaign has stretched over 11 months and has been made up of 18 championships.
Recognized as the only global amateur series for boys and girls, the Faldo Series was established in 1996, expanding to Asia in 2006.
Today, 40 Faldo Series tournaments take place in 30-plus countries worldwide, touching more than 7,000 golfers each year. Past winners include Tseng Ya-ni and Rory McIlroy, who took his tally of professional Major titles to four with his wins at last year’s Open Championship and US PGA Championship.
Scores of the Indonesian contingent:
214 - Fadhli Rahman Soetarso 69-7273 (Boys U18, 4th), 9th overall
215 - Tirto Tamardi 70-73-72 (Boys U16, 3rd), 11th overall
228 - Rivani Adeia Sihotang 80-75-73 (Girls U16, 6th), 44th overall
230 - Faraby Ali 77-78-75 (Boys U21, 10th), 51st overall
232 - Ida Ayu Melati 79-75-78 (Girls U21, 7th), 54th overall
The 21-year-old underlined his potential with a polished performance over the acclaimed Nick Faldo-designed Faldo Course at Mission Hills Shenzhen, edging Czech Republic’s Simon Zach in a dramatic sudden-death play-off.
One shot ahead overnight, Kamasu closed with a three-under 69 for a 54-hole aggregate of nine-under 207. That total was matched by Zach, who carded a 68.
However, it was the Japanese who prevailed in extra time with a gutsy bogey-six at 18. There, he pushed his drive into the water but quickly recovered his composure to find the green with his fourth shot.
Nonetheless, at that point, Zach, in the center of the fairway less than 100 yards from the flag in two, appeared to hold the initiative.
But he then suffered the anguish of dunking two balls in the hazard in front of the green as the chance of becoming the first non-Asian winner of the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final slipped agonizingly from his grasp.
With his triumph in the ninth edition of the R&A World Amateur Golf Ranking event, Kamasu followed in the footsteps of Masamichi Ito and Mikumu Horikawa to become the tournament’s third Japanese champion in the past four years.
“This victory is important for me. It’s my first international win and is a big boost for my confidence and self-belief,” said Kamasu.
“I would like to thank Sir Nick for providing such an incredible opportunity and for hosting us all … and for sharing his knowledge and wisdom at the clinics he conducted.”
Six-time Major champion Sir Nick Faldo, Britain’s most successful golfer, said: “Yuki’s victory caps a fantastic week which has seen us bring together more than 80 young golfers from 18 countries around the world."
“The players are getting better every year and I am excited about the future as we continue our effort to grow the game of golf globally through the Faldo Series.”
American Zachary Bauchou, winner of the Faldo Series Grand Final at The Greenbrier in West Virginia, USA, last October, eagled the final hole to claim sole possession of third place, just one shot shy of joining the play-off.
Meanwhile, Zach, who was defeated by Bauchou in that play-off at The Greenbrier, had the consolation of winning the Boys’ Under-18 division.
Fadhli Rahman Soetarso finished in this group in 4th place and was the best placed Indonesian on a 9th place overall.
In the Girls’ Under-21 category, victory went to Princess Mary Superal of the Philippines with a score of three-under 213. Minami Hiruta, the reigning Japan Women’s Amateur champion, was runner-up on 216.
The Girls’ Under-16 winner was Japan’s Yumi Kudo, on a countback from China’s Liu Yan and New Zealander Brooke Hamilton. All three were tied at five-over 221.
China’s Cao Sen triumphed in the Boys’ Under-16 segment thanks to a sparkling closing 68, edging out Chinese Taipei’s Tsai Kai-jen on a countback after both finished on 213. Indonesia's Tirto Tamardi finished 2 shots back in third place, just outside the top 10 in the overall standings.
Cao also received the Mission Hills Trophy, presented by Mission Hills Vice Chairman Tenniel Chu to the leading Chinese player.
As well as receiving the Faldo Series Asia trophy, the overall winner will be granted an exemption into an Asian Tour event. The Girls’ winner will be given a start in a Ladies European Tour event.
Both will also earn themselves an overseas trip to compete in the Faldo Series Europe Grand Final.
Supported by The R&A and Mission Hills and endorsed by the Asian Tour and the Asia Pacific Golf Confederation, the 2014-15 Faldo Series Asia campaign has stretched over 11 months and has been made up of 18 championships.
Recognized as the only global amateur series for boys and girls, the Faldo Series was established in 1996, expanding to Asia in 2006.
Today, 40 Faldo Series tournaments take place in 30-plus countries worldwide, touching more than 7,000 golfers each year. Past winners include Tseng Ya-ni and Rory McIlroy, who took his tally of professional Major titles to four with his wins at last year’s Open Championship and US PGA Championship.
Scores of the Indonesian contingent:
214 - Fadhli Rahman Soetarso 69-7273 (Boys U18, 4th), 9th overall
215 - Tirto Tamardi 70-73-72 (Boys U16, 3rd), 11th overall
228 - Rivani Adeia Sihotang 80-75-73 (Girls U16, 6th), 44th overall
230 - Faraby Ali 77-78-75 (Boys U21, 10th), 51st overall
232 - Ida Ayu Melati 79-75-78 (Girls U21, 7th), 54th overall
Thursday, March 19, 2015
Fadhli Rahman Soetarso Stays In Contention For Win At Faldo Series Asia Grand Final
Shenzhen, China, March 19 - Japan’s Yuki Kamasu snared a final-hole birdie to soar to the top of the leaderboard after the second round of the ninth Faldo Series Asia Grand Final.
At 21 the eldest competitor in the elite 82-player field, Kamasu signed for a five-under-par 67 over the acclaimed Nick Faldo-designed Faldo Course at Mission Hills Shenzhen.
That gave him a 36-hole total of six-under 138 – and a one-stroke lead from Czech Republic’s Simon Zach and American Zachary Bauchou heading into Friday’s final round in the R&A World Amateur Golf Ranking event.
Also in contention in what promises to be a thrilling finale are Hong Kong’s Leon Philip D'Souza [140], Indonesian Fadhli Rahman Soetarso [141] and Princess Mary Superal of the Philippines [142], the leading female.
Among a group of six players within striking distance on 143 are Minami Hiruta, the reigning Japan Women’s Amateur champion, and first-round leader Yuki Shino, who was left to rue a triple-bogey eight at the fourth where he took three off the tee and also found water.
“It’s poised for a memorable final-round shootout,” said tournament host Sir Nick Faldo, who beguiled competitors at a short-game clinic following the second round.
The six-time Major champion, Britain’s most successful golfer, added: “We’ve had several dramatic finishes here before and it looks like it’s going to go all the way to wire tomorrow.”
Kamasu trailed playing partner Bauchou by one shot going to the 516-yard 18th. But while the Japanese secured a closing four, his American rival could manage only a bogey-six as the lead exchanged hands.
Bidding to follow in the footsteps of Masamichi Ito and Mikumu Horikawa and become the third Japanese winner of the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final in the past four years, Kamasu dropped his only shot of the round at the ninth to turn in two-under 34.
Further birdies at 12, 15 and 18 enabled him to return the joint lowest round of the week.
But he knows he’ll have to be at his best to hold off the threat of Bauchou and Zach, who qualified via the Faldo Series Europe Grand Final at The Greenbrier in West Virginia, USA.
As well as attempting to earn the distinction of becoming the first non-Asian winner at the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final, Bauchou and Zach will resume their own personal battle.
Five months ago, Bauchou, from Forest, Virginia, edged out Zach in a sudden-death play-off to win the 18th Faldo Series Grand Final at The Greenbrier. There, Bauchou birdied the 18th to force a play-off with Zach and then clinched the title with a tap-in par putt on the first extra hole.
Meanwhile, Sen Cao leads the way in the race to win the Mission Hills Trophy, awarded to the leading golfer from the People’s Republic. With a two-day total of 145, Sen is one shot ahead of Yan Liu and two in front of Jie Hong.
Scores of the Indonesian contingent:
141 - Fadhli Rahman Soetarso 69-72 (Boys U18, 2nd), 5th overall
143 - Tirto Tamardi 70-73 (Boys U16, 2nd), 7th overall
154 - Ida Ayu Melati 79-75 (Girls U21, 5th), 42nd overall
155 - Rivani Adeia Sihotang 80-75 (Girls U16, 7th), Faraby Ali 77-78 (Boys U21, 11th), 49th overall
At 21 the eldest competitor in the elite 82-player field, Kamasu signed for a five-under-par 67 over the acclaimed Nick Faldo-designed Faldo Course at Mission Hills Shenzhen.
That gave him a 36-hole total of six-under 138 – and a one-stroke lead from Czech Republic’s Simon Zach and American Zachary Bauchou heading into Friday’s final round in the R&A World Amateur Golf Ranking event.
Also in contention in what promises to be a thrilling finale are Hong Kong’s Leon Philip D'Souza [140], Indonesian Fadhli Rahman Soetarso [141] and Princess Mary Superal of the Philippines [142], the leading female.
Among a group of six players within striking distance on 143 are Minami Hiruta, the reigning Japan Women’s Amateur champion, and first-round leader Yuki Shino, who was left to rue a triple-bogey eight at the fourth where he took three off the tee and also found water.
“It’s poised for a memorable final-round shootout,” said tournament host Sir Nick Faldo, who beguiled competitors at a short-game clinic following the second round.
The six-time Major champion, Britain’s most successful golfer, added: “We’ve had several dramatic finishes here before and it looks like it’s going to go all the way to wire tomorrow.”
Kamasu trailed playing partner Bauchou by one shot going to the 516-yard 18th. But while the Japanese secured a closing four, his American rival could manage only a bogey-six as the lead exchanged hands.
Bidding to follow in the footsteps of Masamichi Ito and Mikumu Horikawa and become the third Japanese winner of the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final in the past four years, Kamasu dropped his only shot of the round at the ninth to turn in two-under 34.
Further birdies at 12, 15 and 18 enabled him to return the joint lowest round of the week.
But he knows he’ll have to be at his best to hold off the threat of Bauchou and Zach, who qualified via the Faldo Series Europe Grand Final at The Greenbrier in West Virginia, USA.
As well as attempting to earn the distinction of becoming the first non-Asian winner at the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final, Bauchou and Zach will resume their own personal battle.
Five months ago, Bauchou, from Forest, Virginia, edged out Zach in a sudden-death play-off to win the 18th Faldo Series Grand Final at The Greenbrier. There, Bauchou birdied the 18th to force a play-off with Zach and then clinched the title with a tap-in par putt on the first extra hole.
Meanwhile, Sen Cao leads the way in the race to win the Mission Hills Trophy, awarded to the leading golfer from the People’s Republic. With a two-day total of 145, Sen is one shot ahead of Yan Liu and two in front of Jie Hong.
Scores of the Indonesian contingent:
141 - Fadhli Rahman Soetarso 69-72 (Boys U18, 2nd), 5th overall
143 - Tirto Tamardi 70-73 (Boys U16, 2nd), 7th overall
154 - Ida Ayu Melati 79-75 (Girls U21, 5th), 42nd overall
155 - Rivani Adeia Sihotang 80-75 (Girls U16, 7th), Faraby Ali 77-78 (Boys U21, 11th), 49th overall
Fadhli Rahman Soetarso And Tirto Tamardi In Contention For Top Honors At Faldo Series Asia Grand Final
Shenzhen, China, March 18 - Japan's Yuki Shino set a blistering pace on the opening day of the ninth Faldo Series Asia Grand Final.
The talented 17-year-old threw down the gauntlet to his rivals in the elite 82-player field with a four-under-par 68 over the acclaimed Nick Faldo-designed Faldo Course at Mission Hills Shenzhen.
Playing aggressively, Shino scattered six birdies and an eagle-two at the short par-four 15th to offset two bogeys and one double-bogey.
Six-time Major champion Sir Nick Faldo, Britain's most successful golfer, said: "What an explosive performance from Yuki! If he maintains that form then he's going to be the player to beat."
Shino, who secured his starting place here after emerging victorious in the Faldo Series Japan Championship, attacked from the outset, picking up shots at each of the first three holes.
Bidding to follow in the footsteps of Masamichi Ito and Mikumu Horikawa and become the third Japanese winner of the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final in the past four years, Shino reached the turn in one-under 35. Showing no signs of nerves, he covered the back nine in three-under 33.
Thanks to that effort, Shino will take a one-stroke lead over Indonesian Fadhli Rahman Soetarso and Chinese Taipei's Tsai Kai-jen into Thursday's second round in the 54-hole event.
Underlining the quality of the field, a total of 11 players bettered par, including Indonesian Tirto Tamardi and American Zachary Bauchou [both 70] and Simon Zach from the Czech Republic and Brazilian Rohan Boettcher [both 71].
Bauchou, Zach and Boettcher all qualified via the Faldo Series Europe Grand Final.
Leading the female challenge is Shino's compatriot Minami Hiruta. The reigning Japan Women's Amateur champion is tied for fourth after carding a two-under 70 – two strokes ahead of Malaysian Nur Durriyah Damian, Chinese Taipei's Wu Yi-ching, Princess Mary Superal of the Philippines and New Zealand's Brooke Hamilton.
Hamilton produced the shot of the day with a hole-in-one at the island green, par-three 16th hole.
Meanwhile, Yan Liu and Liang En Qi both returned 74s to lead the way in the race to win the Mission Hills Trophy, awarded to the leading golfer from the People's Republic.
As well as receiving the Faldo Series Asia trophy, the overall winner will be granted an exemption into an Asian Tour event. The Girls' winner will be given a start in a Ladies European Tour event.
Both will also earn themselves an overseas trip to compete in the Faldo Series Europe Grand Final.
Supported by The R&A and Mission Hills and endorsed by the Asian Tour and the Asia Pacific Golf Confederation, the 2014-15 Faldo Series Asia campaign has stretched over 11 months and has been made up of 18 championships.
Recognised as the only global amateur series for boys and girls, the Faldo Series was established in 1996, expanding to Asia in 2006.
Today, 40 Faldo Series tournaments take place in 30-plus countries worldwide, touching more than 7,000 golfers each year. Past winners include Tseng Ya-ni and Rory McIlroy, who took his tally of professional Major titles to four with his wins at last year's Open Championship and US PGA Championship.
Scores of the Indonesian contingent:
69 - Fadhli Rahman Soetarso (Boys U18, 2nd), 2nd overall
70 - Tirto Tamardi (Boys U16, 2nd), 4th overall
77 - Faraby Ali (Boys U21, 9th), 45th overall
79 - Ida Ayu Melati (Girls U21, 10th), 55th overall
80 - Rivani Adeia Sihotang (Girls U16, 7th), 61st overall
The talented 17-year-old threw down the gauntlet to his rivals in the elite 82-player field with a four-under-par 68 over the acclaimed Nick Faldo-designed Faldo Course at Mission Hills Shenzhen.
Playing aggressively, Shino scattered six birdies and an eagle-two at the short par-four 15th to offset two bogeys and one double-bogey.
Six-time Major champion Sir Nick Faldo, Britain's most successful golfer, said: "What an explosive performance from Yuki! If he maintains that form then he's going to be the player to beat."
Shino, who secured his starting place here after emerging victorious in the Faldo Series Japan Championship, attacked from the outset, picking up shots at each of the first three holes.
Bidding to follow in the footsteps of Masamichi Ito and Mikumu Horikawa and become the third Japanese winner of the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final in the past four years, Shino reached the turn in one-under 35. Showing no signs of nerves, he covered the back nine in three-under 33.
Thanks to that effort, Shino will take a one-stroke lead over Indonesian Fadhli Rahman Soetarso and Chinese Taipei's Tsai Kai-jen into Thursday's second round in the 54-hole event.
Underlining the quality of the field, a total of 11 players bettered par, including Indonesian Tirto Tamardi and American Zachary Bauchou [both 70] and Simon Zach from the Czech Republic and Brazilian Rohan Boettcher [both 71].
Bauchou, Zach and Boettcher all qualified via the Faldo Series Europe Grand Final.
Leading the female challenge is Shino's compatriot Minami Hiruta. The reigning Japan Women's Amateur champion is tied for fourth after carding a two-under 70 – two strokes ahead of Malaysian Nur Durriyah Damian, Chinese Taipei's Wu Yi-ching, Princess Mary Superal of the Philippines and New Zealand's Brooke Hamilton.
Hamilton produced the shot of the day with a hole-in-one at the island green, par-three 16th hole.
Meanwhile, Yan Liu and Liang En Qi both returned 74s to lead the way in the race to win the Mission Hills Trophy, awarded to the leading golfer from the People's Republic.
As well as receiving the Faldo Series Asia trophy, the overall winner will be granted an exemption into an Asian Tour event. The Girls' winner will be given a start in a Ladies European Tour event.
Both will also earn themselves an overseas trip to compete in the Faldo Series Europe Grand Final.
Supported by The R&A and Mission Hills and endorsed by the Asian Tour and the Asia Pacific Golf Confederation, the 2014-15 Faldo Series Asia campaign has stretched over 11 months and has been made up of 18 championships.
Recognised as the only global amateur series for boys and girls, the Faldo Series was established in 1996, expanding to Asia in 2006.
Today, 40 Faldo Series tournaments take place in 30-plus countries worldwide, touching more than 7,000 golfers each year. Past winners include Tseng Ya-ni and Rory McIlroy, who took his tally of professional Major titles to four with his wins at last year's Open Championship and US PGA Championship.
Scores of the Indonesian contingent:
69 - Fadhli Rahman Soetarso (Boys U18, 2nd), 2nd overall
70 - Tirto Tamardi (Boys U16, 2nd), 4th overall
77 - Faraby Ali (Boys U21, 9th), 45th overall
79 - Ida Ayu Melati (Girls U21, 10th), 55th overall
80 - Rivani Adeia Sihotang (Girls U16, 7th), 61st overall
Thursday, January 15, 2015
Ali Upstages Tamardi In Faldo Series Indonesia Championship
Jakarta, January 15 - Faraby Ali held his nerve to upstage in-form Tirto Tamardi and claim top honors in the eighth Faldo Series Indonesia Championship.
Thanks to a closing two-under-par 70 over Damai Indah Golf’s BSD Course near Jakarta, Ali overturned a one-stroke overnight deficit and edged out defending champion Tamardi.
It was a fine performance from Ali who posted a 54-hole aggregate of one-under-par 215 in the 18th leg of the record-breaking 2014-2015 Faldo Series Asia season.
That was one shot ahead of 15-year-old Tamardi who was a model of consistency throughout, signing for three rounds of even-par 72.
Although Tamardi was unable to retain his title, he will be part of a five-strong Indonesian contingent that will contest the ninth Faldo Series Asia Grand Final, an R&A World Amateur Golf Ranking event to be hosted by Sir Nick Faldo at Mission Hills Shenzhen in March.
[Left to right]: Faldo Series Indonesia Championship age group winners Ida Ayu Melati, Rivani Adelia Sihotang, Faraby Ali, Fadhli Rahman Soetarso and Tirto Tamardi
Fadhli Rahman Soetarso flourished in the Boys’ Under-18 Division, securing first place following a sudden-death play-off against M. Seandy Alfarabi.
Among the females, Ida Ayu Melati was a runaway winner in the Girls’ Under-21 Division. She set the tone with a solid opening 72 and never looked in danger of relinquishing her early advantage.
It was a closer contest in the Girls’ Under-16 Division with Rivani Adelia Sihotang holding off a brave last-round fightback from Inez Beatrice Wanamarta. Five shots in arrears heading into the final day, Wanamarta closed with a 74, reducing Sihotang’s margin of victory to two strokes.
But making light of a thunder delay on day one and a 45-minute stop for torrential rain on day two it was the performance of Ali that caught the eye as he won the Boys’ Under-21 Division for the second year in succession. This year, though, he showed a marked improvement, bettering his score from 2014 by no fewer than 12 strokes.
Six-time Major champion Sir Nick, Britain’s most successful golfer, said: “To improve by 12 shots from last year is an outstanding effort from Faraby Ali. His victory will, I’m sure, give him plenty of confidence as he prepares for the forthcoming Faldo Series Asia Grand Final.”
Supported by The R&A and Mission Hills and endorsed by the Asian Tour and the Asia Pacific Golf Confederation, the 2014-15 Faldo Series Asia campaign stretches over 11 months and is made up of 19 championships.
Recognised as the only global amateur series for boys and girls, the Faldo Series was established in 1996, expanding to Asia in 2006.
Today, 40 Faldo Series tournaments take place in 30-plus countries worldwide, touching more than 7,000 golfers each year. Past winners include Tseng Ya-ni and Rory McIlroy, who took his tally of professional Major titles to four with his wins at last year’s Open Championship and US PGA Championship.
Faldo Series Indonesia Championship, leading final scores:
215 – Faraby Ali (77-68-70)
227 – Christopher Johan (75-74-78)
239 – Putu Andrew Mulyadi (83-80-76)
219 – Fadhli Rahman Soetarso (76-71-72), M. Seandy Alfarabi (71-75-73)
223 – Yuma Salmun (74-78-71)
216 – Tirto Tamardi (72-72-72)
222 – Kevin Caesario Akbar (77-75-70), Stevanus Daniel Wirawan (73-72-77)
228 – Ida Ayu Melati (72-78-78)
237 – Victoria Chandra (80-78-79)
244 – Yeyen Safitri (83-82-79)
229 – Rivani Adelia Sihotang (73-79-77)
231 – Inez Beatrice Wanamarta (78-79-74)
233 – Nathania Damarisa Rim (83-82-79).
Thanks to a closing two-under-par 70 over Damai Indah Golf’s BSD Course near Jakarta, Ali overturned a one-stroke overnight deficit and edged out defending champion Tamardi.
It was a fine performance from Ali who posted a 54-hole aggregate of one-under-par 215 in the 18th leg of the record-breaking 2014-2015 Faldo Series Asia season.
That was one shot ahead of 15-year-old Tamardi who was a model of consistency throughout, signing for three rounds of even-par 72.
Although Tamardi was unable to retain his title, he will be part of a five-strong Indonesian contingent that will contest the ninth Faldo Series Asia Grand Final, an R&A World Amateur Golf Ranking event to be hosted by Sir Nick Faldo at Mission Hills Shenzhen in March.
Fadhli Rahman Soetarso flourished in the Boys’ Under-18 Division, securing first place following a sudden-death play-off against M. Seandy Alfarabi.
Among the females, Ida Ayu Melati was a runaway winner in the Girls’ Under-21 Division. She set the tone with a solid opening 72 and never looked in danger of relinquishing her early advantage.
It was a closer contest in the Girls’ Under-16 Division with Rivani Adelia Sihotang holding off a brave last-round fightback from Inez Beatrice Wanamarta. Five shots in arrears heading into the final day, Wanamarta closed with a 74, reducing Sihotang’s margin of victory to two strokes.
But making light of a thunder delay on day one and a 45-minute stop for torrential rain on day two it was the performance of Ali that caught the eye as he won the Boys’ Under-21 Division for the second year in succession. This year, though, he showed a marked improvement, bettering his score from 2014 by no fewer than 12 strokes.
Six-time Major champion Sir Nick, Britain’s most successful golfer, said: “To improve by 12 shots from last year is an outstanding effort from Faraby Ali. His victory will, I’m sure, give him plenty of confidence as he prepares for the forthcoming Faldo Series Asia Grand Final.”
Supported by The R&A and Mission Hills and endorsed by the Asian Tour and the Asia Pacific Golf Confederation, the 2014-15 Faldo Series Asia campaign stretches over 11 months and is made up of 19 championships.
Recognised as the only global amateur series for boys and girls, the Faldo Series was established in 1996, expanding to Asia in 2006.
Today, 40 Faldo Series tournaments take place in 30-plus countries worldwide, touching more than 7,000 golfers each year. Past winners include Tseng Ya-ni and Rory McIlroy, who took his tally of professional Major titles to four with his wins at last year’s Open Championship and US PGA Championship.
Faldo Series Indonesia Championship, leading final scores:
Boys’ Under-21:
215 – Faraby Ali (77-68-70)
227 – Christopher Johan (75-74-78)
239 – Putu Andrew Mulyadi (83-80-76)
Boys’ Under-18:
219 – Fadhli Rahman Soetarso (76-71-72), M. Seandy Alfarabi (71-75-73)
223 – Yuma Salmun (74-78-71)
Boys’ Under-16
216 – Tirto Tamardi (72-72-72)
222 – Kevin Caesario Akbar (77-75-70), Stevanus Daniel Wirawan (73-72-77)
Girls’ Under-21
228 – Ida Ayu Melati (72-78-78)
237 – Victoria Chandra (80-78-79)
244 – Yeyen Safitri (83-82-79)
Girls’ Under-16
229 – Rivani Adelia Sihotang (73-79-77)
231 – Inez Beatrice Wanamarta (78-79-74)
233 – Nathania Damarisa Rim (83-82-79).
Sunday, January 11, 2015
Tamardi Set For Faldo Series Indonesia Championship Defence
Jakarta, January 8 - Highly-rated teenager Tirto Tamardi will be the player to beat when the eighth edition of the Faldo Series Indonesia Championship tees-off this weekend.
Following a succession of outstanding performances alongside the region’s leading professionals in recent months, the 15-year-old from Surabaya is already being touted as a star of the future.
But Tamardi’s immediate focus is simply to retain the Faldo Series Indonesia Championship title he won at a canter last year.
Since his seven-stroke success over Damai Indah Golf’s BSD Course in West Java exactly 12 months ago, Tamardi has enjoyed a memorable sequence.
Among the many highlights were a top-10 finish in September’s PGM MNRB Sarawak Championship, an Asian Development Tour event featuring a host of seasoned Asian professionals.
Tamardi also had the distinction of being one of only two amateurs to make the half-way cut in last month’s Bank BRI Indonesia Open, a fully-fledged Asian Tour event won by Irishman Padraig Harrington over Damai Indah’s PIK Course.
Those experiences are sure to stand Tamardi in good stead as he attempts to secure a return trip to Mission Hills China for the ninth Faldo Series Asia Grand Final, to be hosted by Sir Nick Faldo in March.
Tamardi will certainly be drawing on the memory of his brilliant performance last year when an opening nine-under-par 63 set him on course for a runaway victory.
He said: “Winning tournaments will always be the best experience. The one that I won’t forget was when I won the Faldo Series Indonesia last year. I had the lowest scores and that was one of the greatest experiences for me.”
Speaking ahead of the 18th leg of the record-breaking 2014-2015 Faldo Series Asia season, six-time Major championship winner Sir Nick, Britain’s most successful golfer, said: “Tirto is clearly a talented player who has already proved that he has both the game and the temperament to succeed.
“I will be following closely his progress at Damai Indah in what promises to be another exciting tournament.”
Supported by The R&A and Mission Hills and endorsed by the Asian Tour and the Asia Pacific Golf Confederation, the 2014-15 Faldo Series Asia campaign stretches over 11 months and is made up of 19 championships.
Recognised as the only global amateur series for boys and girls, the Faldo Series was established in 1996, expanding to Asia in 2006.
Today, 40 Faldo Series tournaments take place in 30-plus countries worldwide, touching more than 7,000 golfers each year. Past winners include Tseng Ya-ni and Rory McIlroy, who took his tally of professional Major titles to four with his wins at last year’s Open Championship and US PGA Championship.
Following a succession of outstanding performances alongside the region’s leading professionals in recent months, the 15-year-old from Surabaya is already being touted as a star of the future.
But Tamardi’s immediate focus is simply to retain the Faldo Series Indonesia Championship title he won at a canter last year.
Since his seven-stroke success over Damai Indah Golf’s BSD Course in West Java exactly 12 months ago, Tamardi has enjoyed a memorable sequence.
Among the many highlights were a top-10 finish in September’s PGM MNRB Sarawak Championship, an Asian Development Tour event featuring a host of seasoned Asian professionals.
Tamardi also had the distinction of being one of only two amateurs to make the half-way cut in last month’s Bank BRI Indonesia Open, a fully-fledged Asian Tour event won by Irishman Padraig Harrington over Damai Indah’s PIK Course.
Those experiences are sure to stand Tamardi in good stead as he attempts to secure a return trip to Mission Hills China for the ninth Faldo Series Asia Grand Final, to be hosted by Sir Nick Faldo in March.
Tamardi will certainly be drawing on the memory of his brilliant performance last year when an opening nine-under-par 63 set him on course for a runaway victory.
He said: “Winning tournaments will always be the best experience. The one that I won’t forget was when I won the Faldo Series Indonesia last year. I had the lowest scores and that was one of the greatest experiences for me.”
Speaking ahead of the 18th leg of the record-breaking 2014-2015 Faldo Series Asia season, six-time Major championship winner Sir Nick, Britain’s most successful golfer, said: “Tirto is clearly a talented player who has already proved that he has both the game and the temperament to succeed.
“I will be following closely his progress at Damai Indah in what promises to be another exciting tournament.”
Supported by The R&A and Mission Hills and endorsed by the Asian Tour and the Asia Pacific Golf Confederation, the 2014-15 Faldo Series Asia campaign stretches over 11 months and is made up of 19 championships.
Recognised as the only global amateur series for boys and girls, the Faldo Series was established in 1996, expanding to Asia in 2006.
Today, 40 Faldo Series tournaments take place in 30-plus countries worldwide, touching more than 7,000 golfers each year. Past winners include Tseng Ya-ni and Rory McIlroy, who took his tally of professional Major titles to four with his wins at last year’s Open Championship and US PGA Championship.
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, December 8, 2014
Padraig Harrington Wins Bank BRI Indonesia Open After Dramatic Final Hole Drama
Jakarta, December 7 - Irishman Padraig Harrington secured a thrilling victory at the US$750,000 Bank BRI Indonesia Open after defeating a battling Thanyakon Khrongpha of Thailand by two shots on Sunday.
The three-time Major champion held a four-shot lead at the start of the final round but stumbled at the turn in 37 as Thanyakon birdied three in his opening five holes to lead by two shots after nine holes.
Harrington clawed his way back up after a two-hour rain suspension to tie with Thanyakon heading into the 18th hole where drama ensued at the Damai Indah Golf, Pantai Indah Kapuk Course.
Under immense pressure to win his first Asian Tour title, the 24-year-old Thai hit his second shot into the water for a double bogey as Harrington sealed the win with a 15-foot par putt after taking a penalty drop when his tee shot landed on the edge of the hazard.
Harrington, who signed for an even-par 71 and a winning total of 16-under-par 268 said, “Winning is a good habit to have. It gives you a lot of confidence and I need that confidence. I didn’t start too well but I came through and I got the win. This win brings a lot of confidence to my game and hopefully it will show up next year.”
“I had a bad break on the 18th hole when I hit my tee shot and it rolled to the edge of the hazard. I was about to chip my ball sideways to the fairway but when Thanyakon hit it into the water, there was no point to take a chance. So I went back to the fairway and hit my six iron for my best shot of the week,” said Harrington.
After completing five holes in his third round on Sunday morning, Harrington opened his final round campaign with a bogey before dropping two shots on the par three seventh hole. He admits that the rain delay after nine holes helped him recover.
“I hit a few bad shots earlier on and I hit a careless shot on the seventh hole. The biggest thing for me at that stage was that I was really praying for a rain delay. My momentum was gone but Thanyakon was flying and he didn’t miss a shot,” explained Harrington.
“It was very unlucky for Thanyakon because of that rain delay. It was unfortunate but he can be very proud with how he played all the way through. He is really impressive. He looks like a player to watch for in the future,” added the Irishman, whose last win in a full field tournament was in Johor in 2010.
A dejected Thanyakon rued the missed opportunity to win his first Asian Tour title after struggling to hold his nerve on the 18th hole.
“It was a great final round from me but I was under so much pressure on the last hole. I’m still happy with how I played. The rain delay stopped my momentum. It wasn’t good. The pressure made me scared,” said the young Thai, who posted a 69.
David Lipsky of the United States extended his Order of Merit lead by slightly over US$133,518 after finishing sixth while Merit runner-up Anirban Lahiri of India stumbled to tied 15th place after closing with a triple bogey.
“Looks like I increased my lead and I’m feeling pretty good about that. The goal was to play solid here. Step one done and now I’ll move on to the Thailand Golf Championship and see what I can do there,” said Lipsky, who won the Omega European Masters in Switzerland in September.
Lahiri will have much to play for in the remaining two Asian Tour events. “I got a lot to play for. David has a good lead and I need two solid results in the last two events. I think I’m playing well enough but I got to put it together over four rounds. I haven’t done that in these last two weeks.”
Home hero George Gandranata couldn't maintain his good form, and had to settle for a 2-over par 73, his first round in the 70s this tournament. As a result he dropped back to a tie for 15th on the leaderboard with 278 total. Jordan Irawan finished one shot further back after firing a 70, which meant he completed all rounds in par or better.
The two Indonesian amateurs that made the cut had their own little fight on who would end on top, that was eventually won by Fadhli Rahman Soetarso, who came home in 68 strokes to overtake 15-year old Tirto Tamardi (72) by 3 strokes.
Scores after round 4 of the Bank BRI Indonesia Open (Par 71):
(A denotes amateur)
268 – Padraig HARRINGTON (IRL) 64-66-67-71
270 – Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA) 67-63-71-69
271 – Nathan HOLMAN (AUS) 69-63-70-69
272 – Quincy QUEK (SIN) 71-67-68-66
274 – Sattaya SUPUPRAMAI (THA) 73-67-67-67
275 – David LIPSKY (USA) 72-68-66-69
276 – Jake HIGGINBOTTOM (AUS) 71-69-72-64, Terry PILKADARIS (AUS) 69-70-68-69, Jyoti RANDHAWA (IND) 71-68-71-66, Sam BRAZEL (AUS) 68-68-69-71, Scott HEND (AUS) 69-64-75-68
Selected:
278 – George GANDRANATA (INA) 69-68-68-73
279 – Jordan IRAWAN (INA) 71-67-71-70
283 - Fadhli Rahman SOETARSO (A) (INA) 69-73-73-68
286 - Tirto TAMARDI (A) (INA) 70-70-74-72
The three-time Major champion held a four-shot lead at the start of the final round but stumbled at the turn in 37 as Thanyakon birdied three in his opening five holes to lead by two shots after nine holes.
Harrington clawed his way back up after a two-hour rain suspension to tie with Thanyakon heading into the 18th hole where drama ensued at the Damai Indah Golf, Pantai Indah Kapuk Course.
Under immense pressure to win his first Asian Tour title, the 24-year-old Thai hit his second shot into the water for a double bogey as Harrington sealed the win with a 15-foot par putt after taking a penalty drop when his tee shot landed on the edge of the hazard.
Harrington, who signed for an even-par 71 and a winning total of 16-under-par 268 said, “Winning is a good habit to have. It gives you a lot of confidence and I need that confidence. I didn’t start too well but I came through and I got the win. This win brings a lot of confidence to my game and hopefully it will show up next year.”
“I had a bad break on the 18th hole when I hit my tee shot and it rolled to the edge of the hazard. I was about to chip my ball sideways to the fairway but when Thanyakon hit it into the water, there was no point to take a chance. So I went back to the fairway and hit my six iron for my best shot of the week,” said Harrington.
After completing five holes in his third round on Sunday morning, Harrington opened his final round campaign with a bogey before dropping two shots on the par three seventh hole. He admits that the rain delay after nine holes helped him recover.
“I hit a few bad shots earlier on and I hit a careless shot on the seventh hole. The biggest thing for me at that stage was that I was really praying for a rain delay. My momentum was gone but Thanyakon was flying and he didn’t miss a shot,” explained Harrington.
“It was very unlucky for Thanyakon because of that rain delay. It was unfortunate but he can be very proud with how he played all the way through. He is really impressive. He looks like a player to watch for in the future,” added the Irishman, whose last win in a full field tournament was in Johor in 2010.
A dejected Thanyakon rued the missed opportunity to win his first Asian Tour title after struggling to hold his nerve on the 18th hole.
“It was a great final round from me but I was under so much pressure on the last hole. I’m still happy with how I played. The rain delay stopped my momentum. It wasn’t good. The pressure made me scared,” said the young Thai, who posted a 69.
David Lipsky of the United States extended his Order of Merit lead by slightly over US$133,518 after finishing sixth while Merit runner-up Anirban Lahiri of India stumbled to tied 15th place after closing with a triple bogey.
“Looks like I increased my lead and I’m feeling pretty good about that. The goal was to play solid here. Step one done and now I’ll move on to the Thailand Golf Championship and see what I can do there,” said Lipsky, who won the Omega European Masters in Switzerland in September.
Lahiri will have much to play for in the remaining two Asian Tour events. “I got a lot to play for. David has a good lead and I need two solid results in the last two events. I think I’m playing well enough but I got to put it together over four rounds. I haven’t done that in these last two weeks.”
Home hero George Gandranata couldn't maintain his good form, and had to settle for a 2-over par 73, his first round in the 70s this tournament. As a result he dropped back to a tie for 15th on the leaderboard with 278 total. Jordan Irawan finished one shot further back after firing a 70, which meant he completed all rounds in par or better.
The two Indonesian amateurs that made the cut had their own little fight on who would end on top, that was eventually won by Fadhli Rahman Soetarso, who came home in 68 strokes to overtake 15-year old Tirto Tamardi (72) by 3 strokes.
Scores after round 4 of the Bank BRI Indonesia Open (Par 71):
(A denotes amateur)
268 – Padraig HARRINGTON (IRL) 64-66-67-71
270 – Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA) 67-63-71-69
271 – Nathan HOLMAN (AUS) 69-63-70-69
272 – Quincy QUEK (SIN) 71-67-68-66
274 – Sattaya SUPUPRAMAI (THA) 73-67-67-67
275 – David LIPSKY (USA) 72-68-66-69
276 – Jake HIGGINBOTTOM (AUS) 71-69-72-64, Terry PILKADARIS (AUS) 69-70-68-69, Jyoti RANDHAWA (IND) 71-68-71-66, Sam BRAZEL (AUS) 68-68-69-71, Scott HEND (AUS) 69-64-75-68
Selected:
278 – George GANDRANATA (INA) 69-68-68-73
279 – Jordan IRAWAN (INA) 71-67-71-70
283 - Fadhli Rahman SOETARSO (A) (INA) 69-73-73-68
286 - Tirto TAMARDI (A) (INA) 70-70-74-72
Sunday, December 7, 2014
George Gandranata In Fourth Place After Round 3 Of The Bank BRI Indonesia Open
Jakarta, December 7 - Padraig Harrington of Ireland fired a four-under-par 67 after completing the third round of the US$750,000 Bank BRI Indonesia Open on Sunday.
The multiple Major champion returned this morning to finish five holes for a 16-under-par 197 total to hold a four-shot lead over Thanyakon Khrongpha of Thailand, who birdied his closing two holes for a 71 at the Damai Indah Golf, Pantai Indah Kapuk Course.
Due to bad weather expected on Sunday afternoon, there will not be a redraw for the final round and player start round four in the same group.
Australia’s Nathan Holman registered a 70 to lie in third position while local hope George Gandranata posted a 68 to tie for fourth with Sam Brazel of Australia on 205, eight shots behind Harrington at the Asian Tour event.
Harrington, who is aiming to win his first title in a full field event since 2010, hopes to maintain his strong momentum.
“The last thing I want to do is go out there and be negative because that gives the rest of the field a chance. It is an awkward position to be in. It is never easy to lead. It is always easy to chase,” said Harrington.
Scores after round 3 of the Bank BRI Indonesia Open (Par 71):
197 – Padraig HARRINGTON (IRL) 64-66-67
201 – Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA) 67-63-71
202 – Nathan HOLMAN (AUS) 69-63-70
205 – George GANDRANATA (INA) 69-68-68, Sam BRAZEL (AUS) 68-68-69
206 – David LIPSKY (USA) 72-68-66, Anirban LAHIRI (IND) 74-66-66, Quincy QUEK (SIN) 71-67-68, Carlos PIGEM (ESP) 68-69-69, Scott BARR (AUS) 69-67-70
Selected:
209 - Jordan IRAWAN (INA) 71-67-71
214 - Tirto TAMARDI (A) (INA) 70-70-74
216 - Fadhli Rahman SOETARSO (A) (INA) 69-73-73
The multiple Major champion returned this morning to finish five holes for a 16-under-par 197 total to hold a four-shot lead over Thanyakon Khrongpha of Thailand, who birdied his closing two holes for a 71 at the Damai Indah Golf, Pantai Indah Kapuk Course.
Due to bad weather expected on Sunday afternoon, there will not be a redraw for the final round and player start round four in the same group.
Australia’s Nathan Holman registered a 70 to lie in third position while local hope George Gandranata posted a 68 to tie for fourth with Sam Brazel of Australia on 205, eight shots behind Harrington at the Asian Tour event.
Harrington, who is aiming to win his first title in a full field event since 2010, hopes to maintain his strong momentum.
“The last thing I want to do is go out there and be negative because that gives the rest of the field a chance. It is an awkward position to be in. It is never easy to lead. It is always easy to chase,” said Harrington.
Scores after round 3 of the Bank BRI Indonesia Open (Par 71):
197 – Padraig HARRINGTON (IRL) 64-66-67
201 – Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA) 67-63-71
202 – Nathan HOLMAN (AUS) 69-63-70
205 – George GANDRANATA (INA) 69-68-68, Sam BRAZEL (AUS) 68-68-69
206 – David LIPSKY (USA) 72-68-66, Anirban LAHIRI (IND) 74-66-66, Quincy QUEK (SIN) 71-67-68, Carlos PIGEM (ESP) 68-69-69, Scott BARR (AUS) 69-67-70
Selected:
209 - Jordan IRAWAN (INA) 71-67-71
214 - Tirto TAMARDI (A) (INA) 70-70-74
216 - Fadhli Rahman SOETARSO (A) (INA) 69-73-73
Saturday, December 6, 2014
George Gandranata Enters Top 5 At Bank BRI Indonesia Open
Jakarta, December 6 - Padraig Harrington of Ireland held a commanding five-shot lead at the weather interrupted Bank BRI Indonesia Open before the third round was abandoned on Saturday.
The three-time Major winner was 16-under through 13 holes before play was called off at the Damai Indah Golf, Pantai Indah Kapuk course. He will return on Sunday at 6.40am alongside 44 other players to complete the round.
Playing in the same group as Harrington, Australia’s Nathan Holman was a distant five shots back while co-overnight leader Thanyakon Khrongpha of Thailand struggled with his driver and was 10-under through 13 holes.
Local hope George Gandranata continued his fine run at the US$750,000 Asian Tour event where he sits on eight-under after playing 16 holes.
His countryman Jordan Irawan is currently at 3-under after 16 holes, while amateurs Tirto Tamardi (74) is at 1-over and Fadhli Rahman Soetarso is at 2-over with one hole to go. Johannes Dermawan retired from the tournament.
Harrington, who is aiming to win his first title since 2012, hopes to stay positive as he prepares for a 23-hole marathon finale on Sunday.
“I was doing nicely. I got a good start and holed a couple of putts at the right time. I didn’t do too many mistakes but it is always difficult when you have the lead. You are a little bit cautious and it is something which I have to deal with.
“The last thing I want to do is go out there and be negative because that gives the rest of the field a chance. It is an awkward position to be in. It is never easy to lead. It is always easy to chase,” said Harrington, who marked his card with four birdies.
Holman struggled to repeat his second round heroics where he posted a brilliant 63. The Australian needs a huge result this week to have a chance of retaining his Asian Tour card for the 2015 season.
“I didn’t have real momentum going. The suspension didn’t really affect anything. Obviously you can learn quite a bit from Padraig Harrington and it has been really nice playing with him. Hope to get a good night’s sleep and see what happens tomorrow,” said Holman, ranked 95th on the Merit list.
Thanyakon, who is chasing for a first Asian Tour win, rued poor tee shots as he stumbled to four bogeys against two birdies. He gave himself a lifeline when he birdied the 13th hole before play was called off for the day.
“I was hitting my driver to the left today. It was very disappointing and I couldn’t recover from that. It really hurt my score. I was also struggling to judge the speed of the greens. Hopefully I can bounce back,” said the 24-year-old Thai.
The third round will resume at 06.40am tomorrow morning.
The three-time Major winner was 16-under through 13 holes before play was called off at the Damai Indah Golf, Pantai Indah Kapuk course. He will return on Sunday at 6.40am alongside 44 other players to complete the round.
Playing in the same group as Harrington, Australia’s Nathan Holman was a distant five shots back while co-overnight leader Thanyakon Khrongpha of Thailand struggled with his driver and was 10-under through 13 holes.
Local hope George Gandranata continued his fine run at the US$750,000 Asian Tour event where he sits on eight-under after playing 16 holes.
His countryman Jordan Irawan is currently at 3-under after 16 holes, while amateurs Tirto Tamardi (74) is at 1-over and Fadhli Rahman Soetarso is at 2-over with one hole to go. Johannes Dermawan retired from the tournament.
Harrington, who is aiming to win his first title since 2012, hopes to stay positive as he prepares for a 23-hole marathon finale on Sunday.
“I was doing nicely. I got a good start and holed a couple of putts at the right time. I didn’t do too many mistakes but it is always difficult when you have the lead. You are a little bit cautious and it is something which I have to deal with.
“The last thing I want to do is go out there and be negative because that gives the rest of the field a chance. It is an awkward position to be in. It is never easy to lead. It is always easy to chase,” said Harrington, who marked his card with four birdies.
Holman struggled to repeat his second round heroics where he posted a brilliant 63. The Australian needs a huge result this week to have a chance of retaining his Asian Tour card for the 2015 season.
“I didn’t have real momentum going. The suspension didn’t really affect anything. Obviously you can learn quite a bit from Padraig Harrington and it has been really nice playing with him. Hope to get a good night’s sleep and see what happens tomorrow,” said Holman, ranked 95th on the Merit list.
Thanyakon, who is chasing for a first Asian Tour win, rued poor tee shots as he stumbled to four bogeys against two birdies. He gave himself a lifeline when he birdied the 13th hole before play was called off for the day.
“I was hitting my driver to the left today. It was very disappointing and I couldn’t recover from that. It really hurt my score. I was also struggling to judge the speed of the greens. Hopefully I can bounce back,” said the 24-year-old Thai.
The third round will resume at 06.40am tomorrow morning.
2 Local Amateurs Make The Cut At Bank BRI Indonesia Open
Jakarta, December 6 - Padraig Harrington of Ireland struggled to take advantage of the calm morning conditions on Saturday as he tied for the second round lead with Thanyakon Khrongpha at the Bank BRI Indonesia Open.
The three-time Major winner was five-under through 12-holes on Friday which included an opening eagle before the halfway stage of the US$750,000 Asian Tour event was suspended due to inclement weather.
With a 4.50am morning call, Harrington returned to the Damai Indah Golf, Pantai Indah Kapuk Course to finish with six straight pars for a 12-under-par 130 total which matched Thanyakon’s efforts yesterday.
“It was nice conditions and obviously I would like to make a few birdies this morning. But that happens and thankfully it was only six holes. Hopefully I will hit it a bit closer and make a few putts in the afternoon,” said Harrington.
Nathan Holman of Australia was a further two shots back following an impressive 63 while Jarin Todd after matching Thanyakon’s efforts of 63, while Scott Hend and Jarin Todd of the United States shot identical 64s for a 133 total.
The Indonesian squad was able to fight back when Johannes Dermawan (71) as well as amateurs tirto Tamardi (70) and Fadhli Rahman Soetarso (73) where able to score enough birdies to make it into the weekend, together with George Gandranata (68) and Jordan Irawan (67) who already finished their round on Friday.
The halfway cut was set at one-over-par 143 with a total of 72 players qualifying for the weekend rounds. Title holder Gaganjeet Bhullar crashed out from the event after finishing two shots over the mark.
Scores after round 2 of the Bank BRI Indonesia Open (Par 71):
(Indonesian unless stated, A denotes amateur)
130 – Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA) 67-63, Padraig HARRINGTON (IRL) 64-66
132 – Nathan HOLMAN (AUS) 69-63
133 – Jarin TODD (USA) 69-64, Scott HEND (AUS) 69-64
134 – Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS) 63-71
135 – Thitiphun CHUAYPRAKONG (THA) 69-66
136 – WANG Jeung-hun (KOR) 70-66, Sam BRAZEL (AUS) 68-68, Bryce EASTON (RSA) 67-69, Scott BARR (AUS) 69-67
Selected:
137 – George GANDRANATA 69-68
138 - Jordan IRAWAN 71-67
140 - Tirto TAMARDI (A) 70-70
142 - Fadhli Rahman SOETARSO (A) 69-73
143 - Johannes DERMAWAN 72-71
Missing the cut:
144 - Jamel ONDO 75-69
146 - William SJAICHUDIN 77-69, Andik MAULUDIN 72-74
147 - Kurnia Herisiandy SANTOSO 77-70
149 - Ian ANDREW 76-73, Junaidi IBRAHIM 74-75
150 - Rinaldi ADIYANDONO 76-74, Fahmi REZA 76-74
151 - Calvin ALAN (A) 79-72
152 - Indra HERMAWAN 74-78, I Ketut SUGIARTA 78-74
153 - Zaki AULIYAN (A) 73-80
154 - Joshua Andrew WIRAWAN 79-75, Dominikus GLENN (A) 78-76
155 - Bramantio ADI 79-76
156 - Cahyo ADHITOMO (A) 76-80, Kevin C. AKBAR (A) 80-76
157 - Anugerah BAGINDA (A) 79-78, Rizchy SUBEKTI (A) 77-80, Asep CAPRIE 74-83
158 - Fajar WINURYANTO 80-78
161 - Asep SAEFULLOH 81-80
162 - Ramadhan ALWIE 83-79
168 - Jon CAHYADI (A) 83-85, Rafa SALMUN (A) 85-83
The three-time Major winner was five-under through 12-holes on Friday which included an opening eagle before the halfway stage of the US$750,000 Asian Tour event was suspended due to inclement weather.
With a 4.50am morning call, Harrington returned to the Damai Indah Golf, Pantai Indah Kapuk Course to finish with six straight pars for a 12-under-par 130 total which matched Thanyakon’s efforts yesterday.
“It was nice conditions and obviously I would like to make a few birdies this morning. But that happens and thankfully it was only six holes. Hopefully I will hit it a bit closer and make a few putts in the afternoon,” said Harrington.
Nathan Holman of Australia was a further two shots back following an impressive 63 while Jarin Todd after matching Thanyakon’s efforts of 63, while Scott Hend and Jarin Todd of the United States shot identical 64s for a 133 total.
The Indonesian squad was able to fight back when Johannes Dermawan (71) as well as amateurs tirto Tamardi (70) and Fadhli Rahman Soetarso (73) where able to score enough birdies to make it into the weekend, together with George Gandranata (68) and Jordan Irawan (67) who already finished their round on Friday.
The halfway cut was set at one-over-par 143 with a total of 72 players qualifying for the weekend rounds. Title holder Gaganjeet Bhullar crashed out from the event after finishing two shots over the mark.
Scores after round 2 of the Bank BRI Indonesia Open (Par 71):
(Indonesian unless stated, A denotes amateur)
130 – Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA) 67-63, Padraig HARRINGTON (IRL) 64-66
132 – Nathan HOLMAN (AUS) 69-63
133 – Jarin TODD (USA) 69-64, Scott HEND (AUS) 69-64
134 – Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS) 63-71
135 – Thitiphun CHUAYPRAKONG (THA) 69-66
136 – WANG Jeung-hun (KOR) 70-66, Sam BRAZEL (AUS) 68-68, Bryce EASTON (RSA) 67-69, Scott BARR (AUS) 69-67
Selected:
137 – George GANDRANATA 69-68
138 - Jordan IRAWAN 71-67
140 - Tirto TAMARDI (A) 70-70
142 - Fadhli Rahman SOETARSO (A) 69-73
143 - Johannes DERMAWAN 72-71
Missing the cut:
144 - Jamel ONDO 75-69
146 - William SJAICHUDIN 77-69, Andik MAULUDIN 72-74
147 - Kurnia Herisiandy SANTOSO 77-70
149 - Ian ANDREW 76-73, Junaidi IBRAHIM 74-75
150 - Rinaldi ADIYANDONO 76-74, Fahmi REZA 76-74
151 - Calvin ALAN (A) 79-72
152 - Indra HERMAWAN 74-78, I Ketut SUGIARTA 78-74
153 - Zaki AULIYAN (A) 73-80
154 - Joshua Andrew WIRAWAN 79-75, Dominikus GLENN (A) 78-76
155 - Bramantio ADI 79-76
156 - Cahyo ADHITOMO (A) 76-80, Kevin C. AKBAR (A) 80-76
157 - Anugerah BAGINDA (A) 79-78, Rizchy SUBEKTI (A) 77-80, Asep CAPRIE 74-83
158 - Fajar WINURYANTO 80-78
161 - Asep SAEFULLOH 81-80
162 - Ramadhan ALWIE 83-79
168 - Jon CAHYADI (A) 83-85, Rafa SALMUN (A) 85-83
Thursday, December 4, 2014
George Gandranata Leads Local Field In First Round Of Bank BRI Indonesia Open
Jakarta, December 4 - Kalem Richardson of Australia fired a superb eight-under-par 63 to lead by one shot over Padraig Harrington of Ireland after the first round of the BANK BRI Indonesia Open on Thursday.
Richardson, who has two top-five results in his last three events, rolled in eight birdies, including a 20-footer on the last hole to steal the limelight from Harrington, who is making his debut at the US$750,000 Asian Tour event.
The three-time Major champion, produced his best score in 2014 with a 64 after birdieing his first two holes from close range at the Damai Indah Golf – Pantai Indah Kapuk course.
Australia’s Adam Groom battled through a leg infection to return with a 67 to tie for third place alongside India’s Arjun Atwal, Thanyakon Khrongpha of Thailand and Bryce Easton of South Africa.
The local field was led by it's current number 1 player, George Gandranata, and amateur Fadhli Soetarso. Both players played 2-under par and are in a 15-way tie for 14th place. Another amateur, Tirto Tamardi, is one shot further back, with Jordan Irawan (71) as well as Johannes Dermawan and Andik Mauludin (both 72) all still in the top 54.
Starting from the 10th tee, Richardson stayed sharp on his first nine holes, as he did not play the stretch during the practice round, and was rewarded with four straight birdies before turning in 31.
“I guess when you haven’t played the back nine, you concentrate more because you don’t know where you are going. You really need to rely on the yardage book and good advice from your caddy,” said the 26-year-old Richardson.
He is playing without any pressure this week after securing his full Asian Tour card for the 2015 season after finishing tied fourth in Thailand last week.
“I secured my Asian Tour card last week so I’m going to try and enjoy the week and see what happens. I got no pressure on me now so I’ll just try and finish as high as I can on the Order of Merit. Obviously I want to try to get a win before the season ends,” said the Australian, who is ranked 47th on the Merit list.
Harrington took advantage of his early morning start and birdied his opening two holes before going on to add six more birdies which included a 15-footer birdie on the par three seventh hole.
“I could have picked a few spots to make more birdies. I made a nice 15-footer on the seventh hole and it is always nice to hole a nice putt when you are already six-under for the day,” said the Irishman.
“Overall I’m happy with the round. Obviously it is still a long way to go. It was very nice early on and the greens are a little bit softer. When the wind came up after nine holes, it wasn’t really a problem for me because I had a few birdies in the bank at that stage,” smiled Harrington.
Atwal, the 2003 Asian Tour number one and first Indian to win on the PGA Tour, got off to a slow start when he turned in 35 but bounced back with three birdies on his way home.
“I didn’t take advantage of the early start. I didn’t make a birdie after six holes but I stayed patient and tried to hole some putts which happened on my back nine. My game is getting better every week and I’m happy with today’s efforts,” said Atwal.
Thailand’s Thanyakon holed his greenside bunker shot on the first hole for eagle and chipped-in from 125 yards on the par four fifth hole for his second eagle of the day.
The slightly built Thai hopes to continue his hot form after finishing tied third in Japan last week and securing a share of second place in Chiangmai on the Asian Tour two weeks ago.
“It was a good day even though I bogeyed the last. I’m playing with a lot of confidence. I missed the cut here last year but now I’m playing much better,” said the 24-year-old Thanyakon.
Scores after round 1 of the Bank BRI Indonesia Open (Par 71:
(Indonesian unless stated, A denotes amateur):
63 – Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS)
64 – Padraig HARRINGTON (IRL)
67 – Adam GROOM (AUS), Bryce EASTON (RSA), Arjun ATWAL (IND), Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA)
68 – Danny CHIA (MAS), Rahil GANGJEE (IND), Sam BRAZEL (AUS), S.S.P CHOWRASIA (IND), Daniel CHOPRA (SWE), Carlos PIGEM (ESP), Blair WILSON (AUS)
Selected:
69 – Fadhli Rahman SOETARSO (A), George GANDRANATA
70 – Tirto TAMARDI (A)
71 - Jordan IRAWAN
72 - Johannes DERMAWAN, Andik MAULUDIN
73 - Zaki AULIYAN (A)
74 - Asep CAPRIE, Junaidi IBRAHIM, Indra HERMAWAN
75 - Benny KASIADI, Jamel ONDO
76 - Fahmi REZA, Ian ANDREW, Cahyo ADHITOMO (A), Rinaldi ADIYANDONO
77 - Rizchy SUBEKTI (A), William SJAICHUDIN, Kurnia Herisiandy SANTOSO
78 - I Ketut SUGIARTA, Dominikus GLENN (A)
79 - Calvin ALAN (A), Anugerah BAGINDA (A), Joshua Andrew WIRAWAN, Bramantio ADI
80 - Fajar WINURYANTO, Kevin C. AKBAR (A)
81 - Sarmilih, Asep SAEFULLOH
82 - Ilyasyak
83 - Jon CAHYADI (A), Ramadhan ALWIE
85 - Rafa SALMUN (A)
Richardson, who has two top-five results in his last three events, rolled in eight birdies, including a 20-footer on the last hole to steal the limelight from Harrington, who is making his debut at the US$750,000 Asian Tour event.
The three-time Major champion, produced his best score in 2014 with a 64 after birdieing his first two holes from close range at the Damai Indah Golf – Pantai Indah Kapuk course.
Australia’s Adam Groom battled through a leg infection to return with a 67 to tie for third place alongside India’s Arjun Atwal, Thanyakon Khrongpha of Thailand and Bryce Easton of South Africa.
The local field was led by it's current number 1 player, George Gandranata, and amateur Fadhli Soetarso. Both players played 2-under par and are in a 15-way tie for 14th place. Another amateur, Tirto Tamardi, is one shot further back, with Jordan Irawan (71) as well as Johannes Dermawan and Andik Mauludin (both 72) all still in the top 54.
Starting from the 10th tee, Richardson stayed sharp on his first nine holes, as he did not play the stretch during the practice round, and was rewarded with four straight birdies before turning in 31.
“I guess when you haven’t played the back nine, you concentrate more because you don’t know where you are going. You really need to rely on the yardage book and good advice from your caddy,” said the 26-year-old Richardson.
He is playing without any pressure this week after securing his full Asian Tour card for the 2015 season after finishing tied fourth in Thailand last week.
“I secured my Asian Tour card last week so I’m going to try and enjoy the week and see what happens. I got no pressure on me now so I’ll just try and finish as high as I can on the Order of Merit. Obviously I want to try to get a win before the season ends,” said the Australian, who is ranked 47th on the Merit list.
Harrington took advantage of his early morning start and birdied his opening two holes before going on to add six more birdies which included a 15-footer birdie on the par three seventh hole.
“I could have picked a few spots to make more birdies. I made a nice 15-footer on the seventh hole and it is always nice to hole a nice putt when you are already six-under for the day,” said the Irishman.
“Overall I’m happy with the round. Obviously it is still a long way to go. It was very nice early on and the greens are a little bit softer. When the wind came up after nine holes, it wasn’t really a problem for me because I had a few birdies in the bank at that stage,” smiled Harrington.
Atwal, the 2003 Asian Tour number one and first Indian to win on the PGA Tour, got off to a slow start when he turned in 35 but bounced back with three birdies on his way home.
“I didn’t take advantage of the early start. I didn’t make a birdie after six holes but I stayed patient and tried to hole some putts which happened on my back nine. My game is getting better every week and I’m happy with today’s efforts,” said Atwal.
Thailand’s Thanyakon holed his greenside bunker shot on the first hole for eagle and chipped-in from 125 yards on the par four fifth hole for his second eagle of the day.
The slightly built Thai hopes to continue his hot form after finishing tied third in Japan last week and securing a share of second place in Chiangmai on the Asian Tour two weeks ago.
“It was a good day even though I bogeyed the last. I’m playing with a lot of confidence. I missed the cut here last year but now I’m playing much better,” said the 24-year-old Thanyakon.
Scores after round 1 of the Bank BRI Indonesia Open (Par 71:
(Indonesian unless stated, A denotes amateur):
63 – Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS)
64 – Padraig HARRINGTON (IRL)
67 – Adam GROOM (AUS), Bryce EASTON (RSA), Arjun ATWAL (IND), Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA)
68 – Danny CHIA (MAS), Rahil GANGJEE (IND), Sam BRAZEL (AUS), S.S.P CHOWRASIA (IND), Daniel CHOPRA (SWE), Carlos PIGEM (ESP), Blair WILSON (AUS)
Selected:
69 – Fadhli Rahman SOETARSO (A), George GANDRANATA
70 – Tirto TAMARDI (A)
71 - Jordan IRAWAN
72 - Johannes DERMAWAN, Andik MAULUDIN
73 - Zaki AULIYAN (A)
74 - Asep CAPRIE, Junaidi IBRAHIM, Indra HERMAWAN
75 - Benny KASIADI, Jamel ONDO
76 - Fahmi REZA, Ian ANDREW, Cahyo ADHITOMO (A), Rinaldi ADIYANDONO
77 - Rizchy SUBEKTI (A), William SJAICHUDIN, Kurnia Herisiandy SANTOSO
78 - I Ketut SUGIARTA, Dominikus GLENN (A)
79 - Calvin ALAN (A), Anugerah BAGINDA (A), Joshua Andrew WIRAWAN, Bramantio ADI
80 - Fajar WINURYANTO, Kevin C. AKBAR (A)
81 - Sarmilih, Asep SAEFULLOH
82 - Ilyasyak
83 - Jon CAHYADI (A), Ramadhan ALWIE
85 - Rafa SALMUN (A)
Saturday, November 8, 2014
Tirto Tamardi Just Misses Out On Top Ten Finish At PGM UMW Impian Championship
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, November 8 - Thailand’s Sattaya Supupramai carded a third consecutive five-under-par 67 to clinch his third Asian Development Tour (ADT) victory at the weather-disrupted PGM UMW Impian Championship on Saturday.
The RM200,000 (approximately US$60,000) ADT event, which was affected by several suspensions due to inclement weather throughout the week, had earlier been reduced to 54-holes by tournament officials. The third and final round, scheduled to resume at 9.30am local time, was delayed by two-hours on Saturday morning due to persistent rain.
Sattaya compiled a three-day total of 15-under-par 201 to win by two shots over Ben Leong of Malaysia, who signed for a 67, at the Impian Golf and Country Club.
Malaysia’s Airil Rizman settled for third place on 205 following a 67 while Arie Irawan, also of Malaysia, recorded the day’s lowest score of 66 to share fourth place with American Casey O’Toole (68) and Thailand’s Annop Tangkamolprasert (69) on 207.
Chinese Taipei’s Chan Shih-chang, placed second on the Order of Merit, failed to topple Thailand’s Pavit Tangkamolprasert on the top of the merit rankings as he closed with a 69 to share seventh place with local veteran R. Nachimuthu on 208.
Pavit, who signed for a closing 70 to finish tied-29th, remained on top of the money list where he now leads by a mere US$252.
Indonesian amateur Tirto Tamardi was close to a top ten finish, missing out by a single shot. A final round 68 got him to a total of 210 strokes and a share of 12th place for the tournament, a fantastic result for the 15-year old junior golfer.
Sattaya took home a winner’s prize purse of US$10,635 and six Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points following his victory.
“I am very happy because this win will secure my place in top-five on the merit rankings now. The conditions have been tough, especially having to stop and restart our rounds so many times. Having a strong mindset is really important in situations like this. I told myself to stay patient and focused out there. I’m glad it worked out well for me,” said the 30-year-old Thai.
Sattaya had notched a top-10 finish at the Asian Tour’s Worldwide Holdings Selangor Masters earlier in September, two weeks after claiming his second ADT victory in Malaysia.
“That top-10 finish on the Asian Tour gave me a lot of confidence. It shows that I am able to compete against the top players in the region. I’m looking forward to playing on the Asian Tour in the next couple of weeks,” added Sattaya, who mixed his card with six birdies against a lone bogey.
Leong, a one-time winner on the Asian Tour, capped a flawless back nine highlighted by two birdies and one eagle to mark his best finish on the ADT this season.
“It has been a good week for me. I couldn’t expect more. I’m actually surprised with my score. It’s been good since returning to competitive golf, having secured one win on the domestic Tour and a second-placed finish this week.
“I’ll be playing a couple more events on the local Tour before heading to the Asian Tour’s Qualifying School early next year. Hopefully I can keep up my momentum,” said the 28-year-old Malaysian, who sat out the entire 2013 season due to a back injury.
Since its inauguration in 2010, the ADT has grown from five events in the first year to a record 21 tournaments in 2014. The top-five finishers on the Order of Merit at the end of the season will earn Asian Tour cards for 2015.
All ADT events also receive Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points which is a boost for the game in the region.
Leading third round scores:
201 – Sattaya SUPUPRAMAI (THA) 67-67-67
203 – Ben LEONG (MAS) 67-69-67
205 – Airil Rizman ZAHARI (MAS) 69-69-67
207 – Arie IRAWAN (MAS) 72-69-66, Casey O’TOOLE (USA) 68-71-68, Annop TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 68-70-69
208 – CHAN Shih-chang (TPE) 71-68-69, R. Nachimuthu (MAS) 70-66-72
209 – Danny CHIA (MAS) 75-67-67, Michael MOORE (AUS) 71-70-68, Kemarol BAHARIN (MAS) 68-69-72
Selected:
210 - Tirto TAMARDI (A) (INA) 74-68-68
The RM200,000 (approximately US$60,000) ADT event, which was affected by several suspensions due to inclement weather throughout the week, had earlier been reduced to 54-holes by tournament officials. The third and final round, scheduled to resume at 9.30am local time, was delayed by two-hours on Saturday morning due to persistent rain.
Sattaya compiled a three-day total of 15-under-par 201 to win by two shots over Ben Leong of Malaysia, who signed for a 67, at the Impian Golf and Country Club.
Malaysia’s Airil Rizman settled for third place on 205 following a 67 while Arie Irawan, also of Malaysia, recorded the day’s lowest score of 66 to share fourth place with American Casey O’Toole (68) and Thailand’s Annop Tangkamolprasert (69) on 207.
Chinese Taipei’s Chan Shih-chang, placed second on the Order of Merit, failed to topple Thailand’s Pavit Tangkamolprasert on the top of the merit rankings as he closed with a 69 to share seventh place with local veteran R. Nachimuthu on 208.
Pavit, who signed for a closing 70 to finish tied-29th, remained on top of the money list where he now leads by a mere US$252.
Indonesian amateur Tirto Tamardi was close to a top ten finish, missing out by a single shot. A final round 68 got him to a total of 210 strokes and a share of 12th place for the tournament, a fantastic result for the 15-year old junior golfer.
Sattaya took home a winner’s prize purse of US$10,635 and six Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points following his victory.
“I am very happy because this win will secure my place in top-five on the merit rankings now. The conditions have been tough, especially having to stop and restart our rounds so many times. Having a strong mindset is really important in situations like this. I told myself to stay patient and focused out there. I’m glad it worked out well for me,” said the 30-year-old Thai.
Sattaya had notched a top-10 finish at the Asian Tour’s Worldwide Holdings Selangor Masters earlier in September, two weeks after claiming his second ADT victory in Malaysia.
“That top-10 finish on the Asian Tour gave me a lot of confidence. It shows that I am able to compete against the top players in the region. I’m looking forward to playing on the Asian Tour in the next couple of weeks,” added Sattaya, who mixed his card with six birdies against a lone bogey.
Leong, a one-time winner on the Asian Tour, capped a flawless back nine highlighted by two birdies and one eagle to mark his best finish on the ADT this season.
“It has been a good week for me. I couldn’t expect more. I’m actually surprised with my score. It’s been good since returning to competitive golf, having secured one win on the domestic Tour and a second-placed finish this week.
“I’ll be playing a couple more events on the local Tour before heading to the Asian Tour’s Qualifying School early next year. Hopefully I can keep up my momentum,” said the 28-year-old Malaysian, who sat out the entire 2013 season due to a back injury.
Since its inauguration in 2010, the ADT has grown from five events in the first year to a record 21 tournaments in 2014. The top-five finishers on the Order of Merit at the end of the season will earn Asian Tour cards for 2015.
All ADT events also receive Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points which is a boost for the game in the region.
Leading third round scores:
201 – Sattaya SUPUPRAMAI (THA) 67-67-67
203 – Ben LEONG (MAS) 67-69-67
205 – Airil Rizman ZAHARI (MAS) 69-69-67
207 – Arie IRAWAN (MAS) 72-69-66, Casey O’TOOLE (USA) 68-71-68, Annop TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 68-70-69
208 – CHAN Shih-chang (TPE) 71-68-69, R. Nachimuthu (MAS) 70-66-72
209 – Danny CHIA (MAS) 75-67-67, Michael MOORE (AUS) 71-70-68, Kemarol BAHARIN (MAS) 68-69-72
Selected:
210 - Tirto TAMARDI (A) (INA) 74-68-68
Friday, November 7, 2014
Junior Tirto Tamardi Outplays Seniors At UMW Impian Championship
Kuala Lumpur, November 7 - Thailand’s Sattaya Supupramai carded a second consecutive five-under-par 67 to seize the halfway lead at the PGM UMW Impian Championship on Friday.
Sattaya, who took a share of the opening round lead, returned to the Impian Golf and Country Club on Friday morning to complete the last four holes of his second round, marking his card with one eagle and four birdies against a lone bogey.
The two-time ADT winner holds a two-shot lead over Malaysian duo Ben Leong and R. Nachimuthu, who signed for rounds of 69 and 66 respectively at the RM200,000 (approximately US$60,000) Asian Development Tour (ADT) event.
The third round of the PGM UMW Impian Championship has commenced at 10.00am local time. The halfway cut was set at three-over-par with a total of 52 players progressing into the final two rounds. Sattaya will tee off at 11.20am with Leong and Nachimuthu.
Indonesian junior amateur Tirto Tamardi surprised the field by shooting a second round 68, which put him in 20th place halfway. He's the only amateur player making the cut, a major achievement for this 15-year old from Surabaya. Countryman Jordan Irawan (77) had more difficulties, and his tally of 154 means he misses the cut.
Local hope Kemarol Baharin sits in fourth place on 137 following a 69 while compatriot Airil Rizman posted a second straight 69 to stay one shot back in fifth place with Annop Tangkamolprasert of Thailand at the PGM UMW Impian Championship, which is the penultimate tournament of the 2014 ADT season.
Chinese Taipei’s Chan Shih-chang, placed second on the Order of Merit, recorded a 68 to share seventh place with four other players while Order of Merit leader Pavit Tangkamolprasert of Thailand stayed 11 shots off the pace in tied-37th position.
Sattaya, who enjoyed a top-10 finish at the Asian Tour’s Worldwide Holdings Selangor Masters in September, is relieved to regain some of his best form this week.
“I told myself not to think so much out there. I just play my own game. I felt my swing was better these two days. It was a little off for the past few weeks but it’s much better now. I will keep to the same game plan and continue to do what I’ve been doing,” said the 30-year-old Thai.
Leong, who sat out the entire 2013 season due to a back injury, regained confidence in his game following two commendable rounds at the PGM UMW Impian Championship.
“The back to back birdies after the turn made me believe in my round again, especially after shooting nine straight pars on the front nine. Today’s round was a test of my character and my patience. I missed a few putts which I shouldn’t have but this is golf,” said the 28-year-old Malaysian.
Leong, a one-time winner on the Asian Tour but not since 2008, had showed glimpses of his old form when he won a domestic tournament in August.
“I’m trying to get to a final score of 12-under-par this week. I will just play within myself. It’s a goal for me to achieve. I haven’t been playing for a month and I’ve been struggling with my putting after the win. My goal was to win once this year and I have already done it. A second win would be a bonus but I am not thinking a lot about it right now,” added Leong.
Nachimuthu, winner of the Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) Tour’s Order of Merit in 2011, is delighted to soar into the lead after marking his card with one eagle and five birdies against a lone bogey.
“I got off to a great start from the 10th with three birdies in four holes. I had a pretty solid round today. I hit the ball good and I putted well too. I will keep to the same game plan for the next two rounds and we will see how it goes,” said the local stalwart, who sank a 10-foot putt for eagle on the third hole.
Since its inauguration in 2010, the ADT has grown from five events in the first year to a record 21 tournaments in 2014. The top-five finishers on the Order of Merit at the end of the season will earn Asian Tour cards for 2015.
All ADT events also receive Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points which is a boost for the game in the region.
Leading second round scores:
134 – Sattaya SUPUPRAMAI (THA) 67-67
136 – R. Nachimuthu (MAS) 70-66, Ben LEONG (MAS) 67-69
137 – Kemarol BAHARIN (MAS) 68-69
138 – Airil Rizman (MAS) 69-69, Annop TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 68-70
139 – CHAN Shih-chang (TPE) 71-68, Pijit PETCHKASEM (THA) 70-69, Casey O’TOOLE (USA) 68-71, Mohd Amli MOHIYADEEN (MAS) 69-70, Somsak KAOPRATUM (THA) 70-69
Selected:
142 - Tirto TAMARDI (A) (INA) 74-68
154 - Jordan IRAWAN (INA) 77-77
Sattaya, who took a share of the opening round lead, returned to the Impian Golf and Country Club on Friday morning to complete the last four holes of his second round, marking his card with one eagle and four birdies against a lone bogey.
The two-time ADT winner holds a two-shot lead over Malaysian duo Ben Leong and R. Nachimuthu, who signed for rounds of 69 and 66 respectively at the RM200,000 (approximately US$60,000) Asian Development Tour (ADT) event.
The third round of the PGM UMW Impian Championship has commenced at 10.00am local time. The halfway cut was set at three-over-par with a total of 52 players progressing into the final two rounds. Sattaya will tee off at 11.20am with Leong and Nachimuthu.
Indonesian junior amateur Tirto Tamardi surprised the field by shooting a second round 68, which put him in 20th place halfway. He's the only amateur player making the cut, a major achievement for this 15-year old from Surabaya. Countryman Jordan Irawan (77) had more difficulties, and his tally of 154 means he misses the cut.
Local hope Kemarol Baharin sits in fourth place on 137 following a 69 while compatriot Airil Rizman posted a second straight 69 to stay one shot back in fifth place with Annop Tangkamolprasert of Thailand at the PGM UMW Impian Championship, which is the penultimate tournament of the 2014 ADT season.
Chinese Taipei’s Chan Shih-chang, placed second on the Order of Merit, recorded a 68 to share seventh place with four other players while Order of Merit leader Pavit Tangkamolprasert of Thailand stayed 11 shots off the pace in tied-37th position.
Sattaya, who enjoyed a top-10 finish at the Asian Tour’s Worldwide Holdings Selangor Masters in September, is relieved to regain some of his best form this week.
“I told myself not to think so much out there. I just play my own game. I felt my swing was better these two days. It was a little off for the past few weeks but it’s much better now. I will keep to the same game plan and continue to do what I’ve been doing,” said the 30-year-old Thai.
Leong, who sat out the entire 2013 season due to a back injury, regained confidence in his game following two commendable rounds at the PGM UMW Impian Championship.
“The back to back birdies after the turn made me believe in my round again, especially after shooting nine straight pars on the front nine. Today’s round was a test of my character and my patience. I missed a few putts which I shouldn’t have but this is golf,” said the 28-year-old Malaysian.
Leong, a one-time winner on the Asian Tour but not since 2008, had showed glimpses of his old form when he won a domestic tournament in August.
“I’m trying to get to a final score of 12-under-par this week. I will just play within myself. It’s a goal for me to achieve. I haven’t been playing for a month and I’ve been struggling with my putting after the win. My goal was to win once this year and I have already done it. A second win would be a bonus but I am not thinking a lot about it right now,” added Leong.
Nachimuthu, winner of the Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) Tour’s Order of Merit in 2011, is delighted to soar into the lead after marking his card with one eagle and five birdies against a lone bogey.
“I got off to a great start from the 10th with three birdies in four holes. I had a pretty solid round today. I hit the ball good and I putted well too. I will keep to the same game plan for the next two rounds and we will see how it goes,” said the local stalwart, who sank a 10-foot putt for eagle on the third hole.
Since its inauguration in 2010, the ADT has grown from five events in the first year to a record 21 tournaments in 2014. The top-five finishers on the Order of Merit at the end of the season will earn Asian Tour cards for 2015.
All ADT events also receive Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points which is a boost for the game in the region.
Leading second round scores:
134 – Sattaya SUPUPRAMAI (THA) 67-67
136 – R. Nachimuthu (MAS) 70-66, Ben LEONG (MAS) 67-69
137 – Kemarol BAHARIN (MAS) 68-69
138 – Airil Rizman (MAS) 69-69, Annop TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 68-70
139 – CHAN Shih-chang (TPE) 71-68, Pijit PETCHKASEM (THA) 70-69, Casey O’TOOLE (USA) 68-71, Mohd Amli MOHIYADEEN (MAS) 69-70, Somsak KAOPRATUM (THA) 70-69
Selected:
142 - Tirto TAMARDI (A) (INA) 74-68
154 - Jordan IRAWAN (INA) 77-77
Friday, April 25, 2014
Talented Gandranata Outshines Top Stars At CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters
The 28-year-old compiled a two-day total of three-under-par 141 to emerge as the highest-ranked Indonesian in tied-23rd place, two shots ahead of Thongchai and Dubuisson, who took a share of 38th place after returning with rounds of 72 and 69 respectively at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club.
Gandranata is feeling upbeat about his chances at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters as he managed to make cut for the first time in two appearances.
“It’s the first time I made cut here at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters. I did not do well last year. I’m glad I rewrote history today. I came into the tournament hoping to make the cut. Now that I’ve achieved that, I really hope to see myself in contention tomorrow!” said Gandranata, who marked his card with five birdies against three bogeys.
Despite playing on home soil, Gandranata does not feel the pressure of having to play well in front of home crowd this week.
“I think playing on home soil actually helps my game. We don’t have lots of big tournaments here and I treasure every opportunity I get to play here. Playing at home makes me feel like there are a lot of people supporting me,” added Gandranata, who has been a regular player on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) since turning professional in 2012.
The second round of the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters was suspended at 5pm local time due to lightning threats on Friday.
Local amateur Fadhli Rahman Soetarso will be one of the 19 players to resume their second rounds at 6.45am on Saturday. Soetarso is currently the second-placed Indonesian on tied-47th. He is even-par through 11 holes.
Indonesia's top-ranked player Rory Hie had to retire at hole 16 because of a wrist injury.
Round three will not start before 8am tomorrow.
Scores of the Indonesian players after day 2 of the CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters being played at the par 72, 7340 Yards Royale Jakarta GC course (a - denotes amateur, leader at -10):
141 - George GANDRANATA 71-70
(Par) - Fadhli Rahman SOETARSO (A) 72 Par (11)
148 - Ramadhan ALWIE 76-72
149 - Fahmi REZA 77-72
150 - William SJAICHUDIN 76-74, Kurnia Herisiandy SANTOSO 75-75
(+6) - Jamel ONDO 78 Par (11)
151 - Denny A. WIJAYA 77-74, Jordan IRAWAN 74-77, Sarmilih 73-78
152 - Rinaldi ADIYANDONO 78-74
(+8) - Andik MAULUDIN 77 +3 (12)
153 - Tirto TAMARDI (A) 77-76
(+9) - Benny KASIADI 78 +3 (14)
(+10) - Johannes DERMAWAN 75 +7 (14), Bramantio ADI 81 +1 (13), Ilyasyak 79 +3 (10)
155 - Ian ANDREW 77-78
156 - Asep SAEFULLOH 81-75, Ade SEBUL 80-76
157 - Kevin C. AKBAR (A) 77-80, Junaidi IBRAHIM 81-76
167 - Naraajie RAMADHANPUTRA (A) 79-88
168 - Abhi SAHARI 84-84
Rory HIE 76 RTD (16)
George Gandranata Spearheads Local Charge At CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters
The 28-year-old, who plays regularly on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) which is the Tour’s secondary circuit, fired three birdies against two bogeys to stay on track for a possible breakthrough win on home soil.
Gandranata was delighted with his solid round after riding on a hot putter which was the key for him at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club.
“I already have a plan on attacking this golf course according to my skills set and I must say it went well for me today. I think the key to playing well on this course is to putt well. You got to put the ball in the right place and you need to putt well to score well. The greens here are really sloppy,” said Gandranata.
Gandranata hopes to take advantage of his experience of playing on the ADT and make his impression at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters this week.
“Playing on the ADT has really helped my game. It has given me a lot of experience playing with the professionals out here. The competition is really good here and it gives you the opportunity to hone your game,” said Gandranata, who has been playing on the ADT since turning professional in 2012.
Local amateur Fadhli Rahaman Soetarso signed for a 72 while compatriot Sarmilih is tied on 61st after carding a 73.
Scores of the Indonesian players after round 1 of the CIMB NIAGA Indonesian Masters being played at the par 72, 7340 Yards Royale Jakarta GC course (a - denotes amateur, leaders at 67):
71 - George GANDRANATA
72 - Fadhli SOETARSO (a)
73 - SARMILIH
74 - Jordan IRAWAN
75 - Johannes DERMAWAN, Kurnia Herisian SANTOSO
76 - Rory HIE, Ramadhan ALWIE, William SJAICHUDIN
77 - Ian ANDREW, Andik MAULUDIN, Fahmi REZA, Denny A. WIJAYA, Kevin C. AKBAR (a), Tirto TAMARDI (a)
78 - Benny KASIADI, Jamel ONDO, Rinaldi ADIYANDONO
79 - Naraajie RAMADHANPUTRA (a), ILYASSYAK
80 - Ade SEBUL
81 - Junaidi Ibrahim, Bramantio ADI, Asep SAIFULLOH
85 - Abhi SAHARI
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Little Glory But A Lot Of Experience Gained For Indonesian Team At Faldo Series Asian Grand Final
Shenzhen, China, 13 March 2014 - Mikumu Horikawa of Japan stormed to victory in the eighth Faldo Series Asia Grand Final at Mission Hills Golf Club in China. The 21-year-old from Kanagawa fired a superb final round 68 on the Faldo Course to win by three shots and follow in the footsteps of compatriot Masamichi Ito who won the title in 2010 and 2012.
“The time is now for the Faldo Series, Mikumu’s come from behind victory caps an amazing week which has seen us crown champions from around the world,” said Sir Nick Faldo. Today’s winners will travel on to America later this year where they will be vying to emulate the success of Korean American Megan Khang, who became our first girl champion at The Greenbrier last October. It’s an international story and I’m proud of that.”
“This victory means so much to me as it was my third final and last chance to win the Faldo Series,” said an emotional Mikumu on receiving his trophy from Faldo. “I picked up a putting tip from Sir Nick yesterday which really made a difference to my game today.”
Horikawa opened with three birdies in his first four holes to stun overnight leader Paul Kinnear. He went on to reach nine-under par and finish three ahead of England’s Kinnear who closed with a 73 to finish second.
Pauline Del Rosario held off a strong challenge from fellow Filipino Princess Mary Superal to win the Girls’ Division. The 15-year-old qualifies for the 2014 Faldo Series Grand Final along with Horikawa, Boys’ Under-18 winner Marc Ong of Singapore and Wang Mei-Xing (Girls Under-21) from China.
Bai Zheng-Kai from Guangdong made it a double success for China by winning the Boys Under-16 division. The 16-year-old also claimed the Mission Hills Trophy as the highest-placed finisher from mainland China.
Best Indonesian players were Ida Putri (Girls U-16) and Fadhli Soetars (Boys U-18) who both finished in a tie for 17th place at 225 (+9). The other Indonesian participants finished further down the board with Tirto Tamardi (230, Boys U-16) in a tie for 34th, Faraby Ali (232, Boys U-21) in 44th place and Victoria Chandra (235, Girls U-21) sharing 48th place in the 81 strong field.
Established in 1996, 40 Faldo Series tournaments now take place in 30 countries worldwide with more than 7,000 golfers participating each year. Past winners include Major Champions Rory McIlroy and Yani Tseng.
In September 2014, Faldo will begin taking students at a full-time residential academy for education and golf development in America. The first ever Faldo Series Academy in Casa Grande, Arizona is also home to the Faldo Series USA and marks the next significant step in the programme’s history.
The 2013/2014 Faldo Series Asia schedule featured a record 19 tournaments in 15 countries, including four in mainland China, two in India and others in The Philippines, Chinese Taipei, Cambodia, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Nepal, Singapore, Brunei, Japan, Pakistan, Indonesia and Thailand.
The eighth Faldo Series Asia Grand Final was supported by ISPS Handa, Mission Hills, The R&A, Audemars Piguet, CBS, Golf Channel, MasterCard, Tricor, PGA Tour and PGA of America. It is endorsed by the Asian Tour, the Asia Pacific Golf Federation and the Guangdong Golf Association.
Leading final scores:
Boys’ Under-21:
207 – Mikumu Horikawa (JPN) 70-69-68
210 – Paul Kinnear (ENG) 66-71-73
218 – Syed Saqib Ahmed (IND) 75-75-68
232 - Faraby Ali (INA) - 80-82-70
Boys’ Under-18:
213 – Marc Ong (SIN) 70-73-70
215 – Zachary Bauchou (USA) 69-71-75
218 – Simon Zach (CZE) 71-76-71
225 - Fadhli Soetarso (INA) 77-71-77
Boys’ Under-16:
216 – Bai Zheng-Kai (CHN) 73-71-72
220 – Shota Seki (JPN) 74-71-75
221 – Jakub Hrinda (SK) 74-78-69, Ye Wo-Cheng (CHN) 75-75-71
230 - Tirto Tamardi (INA) 79-74-77
Girls’ Under-21:
229 - Wang Mei-Xing (CHN) 75-79-75, Nur Durriyah Damian (MAL) 78-76-75, Shina Kanazawa (JPN) 76-77-76, Zhu Kai-Lin (CHN) 76-76-77
235 - Victoria Chandra (INA) 79-81-75
Girls’ Under-16:
216 – Pauline Del Rosario (PHI) 72-69-75
217 – Princess Mary Superal (PHI) 72-74-71
222 – Minami Hiruta (JPN) 72-73-77
225 - Ida Putri (INA) 73-75-77
“The time is now for the Faldo Series, Mikumu’s come from behind victory caps an amazing week which has seen us crown champions from around the world,” said Sir Nick Faldo. Today’s winners will travel on to America later this year where they will be vying to emulate the success of Korean American Megan Khang, who became our first girl champion at The Greenbrier last October. It’s an international story and I’m proud of that.”
“This victory means so much to me as it was my third final and last chance to win the Faldo Series,” said an emotional Mikumu on receiving his trophy from Faldo. “I picked up a putting tip from Sir Nick yesterday which really made a difference to my game today.”
Horikawa opened with three birdies in his first four holes to stun overnight leader Paul Kinnear. He went on to reach nine-under par and finish three ahead of England’s Kinnear who closed with a 73 to finish second.
Pauline Del Rosario held off a strong challenge from fellow Filipino Princess Mary Superal to win the Girls’ Division. The 15-year-old qualifies for the 2014 Faldo Series Grand Final along with Horikawa, Boys’ Under-18 winner Marc Ong of Singapore and Wang Mei-Xing (Girls Under-21) from China.
Bai Zheng-Kai from Guangdong made it a double success for China by winning the Boys Under-16 division. The 16-year-old also claimed the Mission Hills Trophy as the highest-placed finisher from mainland China.
Best Indonesian players were Ida Putri (Girls U-16) and Fadhli Soetars (Boys U-18) who both finished in a tie for 17th place at 225 (+9). The other Indonesian participants finished further down the board with Tirto Tamardi (230, Boys U-16) in a tie for 34th, Faraby Ali (232, Boys U-21) in 44th place and Victoria Chandra (235, Girls U-21) sharing 48th place in the 81 strong field.
Established in 1996, 40 Faldo Series tournaments now take place in 30 countries worldwide with more than 7,000 golfers participating each year. Past winners include Major Champions Rory McIlroy and Yani Tseng.
In September 2014, Faldo will begin taking students at a full-time residential academy for education and golf development in America. The first ever Faldo Series Academy in Casa Grande, Arizona is also home to the Faldo Series USA and marks the next significant step in the programme’s history.
The 2013/2014 Faldo Series Asia schedule featured a record 19 tournaments in 15 countries, including four in mainland China, two in India and others in The Philippines, Chinese Taipei, Cambodia, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Nepal, Singapore, Brunei, Japan, Pakistan, Indonesia and Thailand.
The eighth Faldo Series Asia Grand Final was supported by ISPS Handa, Mission Hills, The R&A, Audemars Piguet, CBS, Golf Channel, MasterCard, Tricor, PGA Tour and PGA of America. It is endorsed by the Asian Tour, the Asia Pacific Golf Federation and the Guangdong Golf Association.
Leading final scores:
Boys’ Under-21:
207 – Mikumu Horikawa (JPN) 70-69-68
210 – Paul Kinnear (ENG) 66-71-73
218 – Syed Saqib Ahmed (IND) 75-75-68
232 - Faraby Ali (INA) - 80-82-70
Boys’ Under-18:
213 – Marc Ong (SIN) 70-73-70
215 – Zachary Bauchou (USA) 69-71-75
218 – Simon Zach (CZE) 71-76-71
225 - Fadhli Soetarso (INA) 77-71-77
Boys’ Under-16:
216 – Bai Zheng-Kai (CHN) 73-71-72
220 – Shota Seki (JPN) 74-71-75
221 – Jakub Hrinda (SK) 74-78-69, Ye Wo-Cheng (CHN) 75-75-71
230 - Tirto Tamardi (INA) 79-74-77
Girls’ Under-21:
229 - Wang Mei-Xing (CHN) 75-79-75, Nur Durriyah Damian (MAL) 78-76-75, Shina Kanazawa (JPN) 76-77-76, Zhu Kai-Lin (CHN) 76-76-77
235 - Victoria Chandra (INA) 79-81-75
Girls’ Under-16:
216 – Pauline Del Rosario (PHI) 72-69-75
217 – Princess Mary Superal (PHI) 72-74-71
222 – Minami Hiruta (JPN) 72-73-77
225 - Ida Putri (INA) 73-75-77
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
