Jakarta, November 21 - Major champions Ernie Els and big-hitting John Daly have confirmed their participation in the US$750,000 CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters in 2013.
Els, the reigning British Open champion and Daly, a two-time Major winner, will headline the event alongside the talented Asian Tour stars at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club from May 2 to 5, 2013.
PT Bank CIMB Niaga Tbk (CIMB Niaga) was excited to continue their title sponsorship for the second year and emphasized their commitment to develop the game of golf in Indonesia.
“I am delighted that the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters 2013 will once again welcome some of the world’s best golfers. Ernie Els and John Daly are not only legends in golf but are also very popular and I am sure their presence will further enhance our country’s premier tournament. We are committed to developing golf in Indonesia and strongly believe that this event serves as a great platform for junior, amateur and professional golfers to aspire to,” said Arwin Rasyid, President Director of CIMB Niaga.
Els, also known as “Big Easy”, has won more than 60 professional tournaments around the world, including seven World Match Play titles and four Major victories. He captured his second British Open title at Royal Lytham and St Annes in July.
“Everyone who knows me knows that I love playing in Asia and I am excited about returning to Indonesia. I thoroughly enjoyed playing in Bali many years back and I am sure playing in Jakarta at Royale Jakarta will be as good an experience for me. My game is coming into form and I look forward to contending in the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters 2013”, said the South African.
Fan Favourite Daly is one of the most colorful and charismatic players. His “grip it and rip it” style of play will be put to test at the majestic Royale Jakarta Golf Club.
“I always enjoy playing on new courses. Indonesia and Royale Jakarta Golf Club have a great reputation for golf so I am looking forward to my first trip there in May next year. I am also looking forward to playing against some of the best golfers from the Asian Tour as well as my old friend Ernie Els who is a great guy. It will be a great week and hopefully I can put up a show for the fans,” said Daly.
A total of 156 players will compete in the US$750,000 event, with 120 from the Asian Tour and 20 from the Indonesia PGA (Professional Golfers Association of Indonesia). There will also be four invites going to the Amateur Golf Association of Indonesia (PGI), with one spot up for grabs to the winner of the event’s Amateur golf league which runs from January to March, 2013.
Indonesian Professional Golfer Association chairman Syafei Asnap said he expected Indonesian golfers to win the tournament. George Gandranata, Ian Andrew, Rinaldi Adiyandono and Suprapto, who won silver in the men’s group event at the 2011 SEA Games, began their professional career earlier this year.
Andik Mauludin, the only Indonesian to make the cut in the 2012 CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters, is also expected to play in next year’s tournament.
The Amateur League of the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters offers amateurs the opportunity to play a minimum of three rounds at Royale Jakarta Golf Club within the qualifying period. Their average scores will be entered into an Order of Merit, which will rank their position on the event website, www.indonesianmasters.com. The winner of the Order of Merit on March 31st will progress to the main event.
“The CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters continues to set new standards for golf in the nation, which is something that it has always done since its inauguration. With a list of great players attending the event, the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters has earned its place as a tournament that helps to build the foundations for the development of golf tournaments in Asia,” said Mari Pangestu, Indonesian Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy.
For the past two seasons, Royale Jakarta Golf Club has hosted the event and continues to be a great venue and challenge for the golfers.
“We are excited to continue attracting some of the region’s greatest golfers to our fairways and greens and to have names like Ernie Els and John Daly confirmed for the tournament is indeed an honor for our course”, said George Chandra, COO of Royale Jakarta Golf Club.
Asian Tour Executive Chairman Kyi Hla Han said: “We are looking forward to the third edition of the CIMB Niaga Indonesia Masters. In a matter of a few years, the tournament has become a truly world-class championship and features prominently on the Asian Tour Schedule.
“As the premier event in Indonesia, we are grateful for the support from CIMB Niaga and also from Indonesia PGA and PGI who work closely with us towards developing golf at the highest level in Asia through the participation of Indonesian players in the tournament.”
England’s, Lee Westwood, triumphed in the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters presented by PNTS this year after completing 32 holes on the final day due to rain delays. Westwood managed to defend his title from 2011 and was clearly the favorite, finishing at 16-under, one shot ahead of Thailand’s, Thaworn Wiratchant.
CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters will have widespread exposure via a strong local media platform and the Asian Tour’s global television platform, which reaches out to over 200 countries and 650 million households on the Live, Highlights, Asian Tour Golf Show and Golfing World. Indonesia’s premier news channel, Metro TV, will also be broadcasting the event locally for 10 hours live and will be airing additional shows and features related to the event and the positive impact to the golf industry and overall economy of Indonesia.
Partners include Title Sponsor CIMB Niaga, Pelayaran Nasional Tanjungriau Service (PNTS), Salonpas by Hisamitsu, BMW (Official Car), Navigat Energy (Main Partner), and San Miguel (Official Beer).
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Stormy Finish At Padivalley Gowa Classic
Gowa, November 17 - Thailand’s Annop Tangkamolprasert came of age today with a fine victory in the storm interrupted Gowa Classic on the ASEAN PGA Tour.
The promising young golfer registered his first win since turning professional in 2007 after shooting a three-under-par 69 to triumph by three shots over Singaporean rookie Choo Tze Huang, who also carded 69.
In a dramatic finish at Padivalley Golf Club, a lightning and heavy rain storm hit just as the final group, consisting of Annop, Choo and Thailand’s Pravee Visalkit walked off the 17th green.
Annop led by three from Choo at that stage but play was stopped for two hours and 15 minutes before both players returned to make par.
“I was a bit worried because I thought the delay would stop my flow,” said Annop.
“I made a par though so it went to plan. I didn’t really expect anything this week so I am really happy. It will be a big confidence boost.”
He finished with a four-round total of nine-under-par 279.
The 22-year-old started the day with a three shot lead and was never really threatened until the storm hit at about 2pm and left an element of uncertainty.
However, Annop so often in the shadow of his older brother Pavit, comfortably handled the situation.
“I will call my mum first before I call him (Pavit),” joked Annop, who is based at Amata Spring Country Club in Thailand.
Pavit, a regular on the ASEAN PGA Tour and OneAsia, chose not to play this week as he is at home in Thailand awaiting the arrival of his visa so that he can play in the final stage of the forthcoming Japan Tour qualifying school.
Annop picked up a cheque for US$16,675 while Choo earned US$11,350.
It was also the finest performance of Choo’s fledgling professional career.
He turned professional last November and despite a brilliant amateur career has found life in the paid ranks difficult.
Making the cut in last week’s US$6 million Barclays Singapore Open - where he won US$19,200 – appears to be a key turning point for the 25-year-old.
“I am really pleased with myself as I played very well,” said Choo.
“It is turning out to be a great finish to the year. I am learning all the time and being in the final group in the final round today for the first time in a pro event was good experience.”
He is Singapore’s most successful amateur, having won the individual title in the Putra Cup in 2006 and 2011, and now appears to be on his way to success as a professional.
Pravee returned a 71 to finish in third place five shots behind Annop.
Thailand’s Wisut Artjanawat, winner of last year’s ASEAN PGA Tour Order of Merit title, finished in sole possession of fourth place on two-under for the tournament. He fired a 72.
Indonesians George Gandranata and Andik Mauluddin finished best for the host nation with a total score of 289 for a share of 7th place.
The Gowa Classic is the first professional tournament staged in Makassar - a port city located on Sulawesi Island, Indonesia. Gowa is located on the perimeter of Makassar.
The next event of the 2012/13 season on the ASEAN PGA Tour schedule is the US$75,000 Sabah Masters.
The tournament, won last year by Wisut, will be played at Sutera Harbour Golf Club from January 9 to 12, and is the final counting event for the Order of Merit.
Leading final round scores (Par 72):
279 - Annop Tangkamolprasert (THA) 73 70 67 69
282 - Choo Tze Huang (SIN) 71 70 72 69
284 - Pravee Visalkit (THA) 72 71 70 71
286 - Wisut Artjanawat (THA) 73 70 71 72
287 - Piya Swangarunporn (THA) 73 72 73 69
288 - Chawinroj Krobteeranon (THA) 72 71 77 68
289 - Somsak Khaoprathum (THA) 79 73 69 68, Ekalak Waisayakul (THA) 77 70 70 72, George Gandranata (INA) 71 72 73 73, Andik Mauluddin (INA) 73 71 71 74
290 - Kenneth De Silva (MAS) 72 71 72 75
291 - Ian Andrew (INA) 74 77 73 67
292 - Pawin Ingkhapradit (THA) 74 73 73 72
The promising young golfer registered his first win since turning professional in 2007 after shooting a three-under-par 69 to triumph by three shots over Singaporean rookie Choo Tze Huang, who also carded 69.
In a dramatic finish at Padivalley Golf Club, a lightning and heavy rain storm hit just as the final group, consisting of Annop, Choo and Thailand’s Pravee Visalkit walked off the 17th green.
Annop led by three from Choo at that stage but play was stopped for two hours and 15 minutes before both players returned to make par.
“I was a bit worried because I thought the delay would stop my flow,” said Annop.
“I made a par though so it went to plan. I didn’t really expect anything this week so I am really happy. It will be a big confidence boost.”
He finished with a four-round total of nine-under-par 279.
The 22-year-old started the day with a three shot lead and was never really threatened until the storm hit at about 2pm and left an element of uncertainty.
However, Annop so often in the shadow of his older brother Pavit, comfortably handled the situation.
“I will call my mum first before I call him (Pavit),” joked Annop, who is based at Amata Spring Country Club in Thailand.
Pavit, a regular on the ASEAN PGA Tour and OneAsia, chose not to play this week as he is at home in Thailand awaiting the arrival of his visa so that he can play in the final stage of the forthcoming Japan Tour qualifying school.
Annop picked up a cheque for US$16,675 while Choo earned US$11,350.
It was also the finest performance of Choo’s fledgling professional career.
He turned professional last November and despite a brilliant amateur career has found life in the paid ranks difficult.
Making the cut in last week’s US$6 million Barclays Singapore Open - where he won US$19,200 – appears to be a key turning point for the 25-year-old.
“I am really pleased with myself as I played very well,” said Choo.
“It is turning out to be a great finish to the year. I am learning all the time and being in the final group in the final round today for the first time in a pro event was good experience.”
He is Singapore’s most successful amateur, having won the individual title in the Putra Cup in 2006 and 2011, and now appears to be on his way to success as a professional.
Pravee returned a 71 to finish in third place five shots behind Annop.
Thailand’s Wisut Artjanawat, winner of last year’s ASEAN PGA Tour Order of Merit title, finished in sole possession of fourth place on two-under for the tournament. He fired a 72.
Indonesians George Gandranata and Andik Mauluddin finished best for the host nation with a total score of 289 for a share of 7th place.
The Gowa Classic is the first professional tournament staged in Makassar - a port city located on Sulawesi Island, Indonesia. Gowa is located on the perimeter of Makassar.
The next event of the 2012/13 season on the ASEAN PGA Tour schedule is the US$75,000 Sabah Masters.
The tournament, won last year by Wisut, will be played at Sutera Harbour Golf Club from January 9 to 12, and is the final counting event for the Order of Merit.
Leading final round scores (Par 72):
279 - Annop Tangkamolprasert (THA) 73 70 67 69
282 - Choo Tze Huang (SIN) 71 70 72 69
284 - Pravee Visalkit (THA) 72 71 70 71
286 - Wisut Artjanawat (THA) 73 70 71 72
287 - Piya Swangarunporn (THA) 73 72 73 69
288 - Chawinroj Krobteeranon (THA) 72 71 77 68
289 - Somsak Khaoprathum (THA) 79 73 69 68, Ekalak Waisayakul (THA) 77 70 70 72, George Gandranata (INA) 71 72 73 73, Andik Mauluddin (INA) 73 71 71 74
290 - Kenneth De Silva (MAS) 72 71 72 75
291 - Ian Andrew (INA) 74 77 73 67
292 - Pawin Ingkhapradit (THA) 74 73 73 72
Friday, November 16, 2012
Andik Mauluddin Overtakes Gandranata In Podium Chase At Padivalley Gowa Classic
Gowa, November 16 - Annop Tangkamolprasert from Thailand took control of the US$100,000 Gowa Classic today by posting a third round five-under-par 67 for a three stroke lead.
The 22-year-old put himself in an excellent position to claim his maiden professional title by making an eagle, five birdies and just two bogeys.
Singapore’s Choo Tze Huang and Pravee Visalkit from Thailand lie in second place at Padivalley Golf Club.
Choo shot a 72 while Pravee carded 70 in the second from last event of the season on the ASEAN PGA Tour.
Thailand’s Wisut Artjanawat, last year’s ASEAN PGA Tour Order of Merit champion, returned a 71 and is four behind the front runner.
His compatriot Apichart Papitak, the leader after the first two rounds, tumbled down the leaderboard with an 82.
For the second day in a row a lengthy delay due to bad weather that lasted about two and a half hours hit as players were nearing the end of their rounds.
Annop was forced off the course on the 17th and returned later to birdie it although he dropped a shot on the last.
“I have been playing well for the past three months but today’s round is more than I expected,” said Annop, whose brother Pavit also plays on Tour.
The Thai golfer leads on six-under-par 210.
“I have never won as a professional so I feel quite nervous. My best finish is second in Thailand. I will just stick to my game plan, play safe and see what happens tomorrow.”
He turned professional in 2007 and plays his golf at Amata Spring Country Club in Thailand.
Rookie pro Choo is also in search if his first professional victory.
“It is great to be in this position. It is proving to be quite a test with these delays but I am staying patient and relaxed,” said 25-year-old Choo.
The Singaporean was the region’s top amateur before turning professional in November last year. He won the individual title in the Putra Cup in 2006 and 2011 and played college golf at the University of Washington.
Indonesia’s Andik Mauluddin came in with 71 and is five behind Annop along with Kenneth De Silva from Malaysia who fired a 72.
Roby Sugara from Indonesia, who is based at Padivalley, shot a 66 for the best round of the week but is six over for the tournament.
The Gowa Classic is the first professional tournament staged in Makassar - a port city located on Sulawesi Island, Indonesia. Gowa is located on the perimeter of Makassar.
Leading third round scores:
210 - Annop Tangkamolprasert (THA) 73 70 67
213 - Pravee Visalkit (THA) 72 71 70, Choo Tze Huang (SIN) 71 70 72
214 - Wisut Artjanawat (THA) 73 70 71
215 - Andik Mauluddin (INA) 73 71 71, Kenneth De Silva (MAS) 72 71 72
216 - Benny Kasiadi (INA) 73 71 72, George Gandranata (INA) 71 72 73
217 - Ekalak Waisayakul (THA) 77 70 70
218 - Piya Swangarunporn (THA) 73 72 73
219 - Wittawat Sae-Ung (THA) 71 74 74, Choengchai Panpumpo (THA) 70 74 75
220 - Pawin Ingkhapradit (THA) 74 73 73, Chawinroj Krobteeranon (THA) 72 71 77
221 - Somsak Khaoprathum (THA) 79 73 69, Egon Nielsen (THA) 75 73 73, Apichart Papitak (THA) 69 70 82
222 - Blair Wilson (AUS) 75 75 72, Roby Sugara (INA) 79 77 66
The 22-year-old put himself in an excellent position to claim his maiden professional title by making an eagle, five birdies and just two bogeys.
Singapore’s Choo Tze Huang and Pravee Visalkit from Thailand lie in second place at Padivalley Golf Club.
Choo shot a 72 while Pravee carded 70 in the second from last event of the season on the ASEAN PGA Tour.
Thailand’s Wisut Artjanawat, last year’s ASEAN PGA Tour Order of Merit champion, returned a 71 and is four behind the front runner.
His compatriot Apichart Papitak, the leader after the first two rounds, tumbled down the leaderboard with an 82.
For the second day in a row a lengthy delay due to bad weather that lasted about two and a half hours hit as players were nearing the end of their rounds.
Annop was forced off the course on the 17th and returned later to birdie it although he dropped a shot on the last.
“I have been playing well for the past three months but today’s round is more than I expected,” said Annop, whose brother Pavit also plays on Tour.
The Thai golfer leads on six-under-par 210.
“I have never won as a professional so I feel quite nervous. My best finish is second in Thailand. I will just stick to my game plan, play safe and see what happens tomorrow.”
He turned professional in 2007 and plays his golf at Amata Spring Country Club in Thailand.
Rookie pro Choo is also in search if his first professional victory.
“It is great to be in this position. It is proving to be quite a test with these delays but I am staying patient and relaxed,” said 25-year-old Choo.
The Singaporean was the region’s top amateur before turning professional in November last year. He won the individual title in the Putra Cup in 2006 and 2011 and played college golf at the University of Washington.
Indonesia’s Andik Mauluddin came in with 71 and is five behind Annop along with Kenneth De Silva from Malaysia who fired a 72.
Roby Sugara from Indonesia, who is based at Padivalley, shot a 66 for the best round of the week but is six over for the tournament.
The Gowa Classic is the first professional tournament staged in Makassar - a port city located on Sulawesi Island, Indonesia. Gowa is located on the perimeter of Makassar.
Leading third round scores:
210 - Annop Tangkamolprasert (THA) 73 70 67
213 - Pravee Visalkit (THA) 72 71 70, Choo Tze Huang (SIN) 71 70 72
214 - Wisut Artjanawat (THA) 73 70 71
215 - Andik Mauluddin (INA) 73 71 71, Kenneth De Silva (MAS) 72 71 72
216 - Benny Kasiadi (INA) 73 71 72, George Gandranata (INA) 71 72 73
217 - Ekalak Waisayakul (THA) 77 70 70
218 - Piya Swangarunporn (THA) 73 72 73
219 - Wittawat Sae-Ung (THA) 71 74 74, Choengchai Panpumpo (THA) 70 74 75
220 - Pawin Ingkhapradit (THA) 74 73 73, Chawinroj Krobteeranon (THA) 72 71 77
221 - Somsak Khaoprathum (THA) 79 73 69, Egon Nielsen (THA) 75 73 73, Apichart Papitak (THA) 69 70 82
222 - Blair Wilson (AUS) 75 75 72, Roby Sugara (INA) 79 77 66
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Gandranata Continues Chase For Top Spot At Padivalley Gowa Classic
Gowa, November 15 - Thailand’s Apichart Papitak maintained his lead at the halfway mark of the US$100,000 Gowa Classic today.
He carded a two-under-par 70 at Padivalley Golf Club to move to five-under for the tournament, which is the penultimate event of the season on the ASEAN PGA Tour.
Singapore’s Choo Tze Huang is in second place, two shots behind, after also carding a 70.
First round leader Apichart, starting on the 10th, got off to a poor start and was three over after seven holes.
However, the 24-year-old stormed back into contention by making a birdie on the 18th followed by birdies on two, four, five and seven.
“I am just trying to play steady golf,” said Apichart, who turned professional in 2010.
“This is turning out to be one of my best tournaments and I am very excited to be in this position.”
His best finish on the ASEAN PGA Tour came in last year’s Sabah Masters when he tied for sixth.
Apichart enjoyed an impressive amateur career which was highlighted by being part of the Thai team that triumphed in the 2009 Putra Cup.
He had the privilege of being taught to play golf at the age of 12 by the great Boonchu Ruangkit at the Royal Army Course.
Inclement weather caused a two hour and 15 minutes delay mid way thru the round.
Choo was on the green of his last hole facing an eagle putt when players were called off the course. He returned later and two putted for a birdie, for his third birdie on the trot.
The rookie is still on a high after a fine performance in last week’s Barclays Singapore Open - where he made the cut and earned a cheque for US$19,200.
Said Choo: “My game has been up and down this year. It is because of my mental game. I have been trying too hard and putting pressure on myself. I have not been letting things go naturally. Last week was a big confidence boost for me. Playing on a hard course with the big guys gave me a mental boost.”
Lying in a tie for third place four shots off the lead are Thailand’s Wisut Artjanawat, Chawinroj Krobteeranon, Annop Tangkamolprasert, and Pravee Visalkit and Malaysian Kenneth De Silva and George Gandranata from Indonesia.
The Gowa Classic is the first professional tournament staged in Makassar - a port city located on Sulawesi Island, Indonesia. Gowa is located on the perimeter of Makassar.
Leading second round scores:
139 - Apichart Papitak (THA) 69 70
141 - Choo Tze Huang (SIN) 71 70
143 - Wisut Artjanawat (THA) 73 70, Kenneth De Silva (MAS) 72 71, George Gandranata (INA) 71 72, Chawinroj Krobteeranon (THA) 72 71, Annop Tangkamolprasert (THA) 73 70, Pravee Visalkit (THA) 72 71
144 - Benny Kasiadi (INA) 73 71, Choengchai Panpumpo (THA) 70 74, Andik Mauluddin (INA) 73 71
145 - Piya Swangarunporn (THA) 73 72, Wittawat Sae-Ung (THA) 71 74
147 - Varit Chomchalam (THA) 76 71, Tanatchan Puaktes (THA) 76 71, Johannes Dermawan (INA) 74 73, Ekalak Waisayakul (THA) 77 70, Pawin Ingkhapradit (THA) 74 73
He carded a two-under-par 70 at Padivalley Golf Club to move to five-under for the tournament, which is the penultimate event of the season on the ASEAN PGA Tour.
Singapore’s Choo Tze Huang is in second place, two shots behind, after also carding a 70.
First round leader Apichart, starting on the 10th, got off to a poor start and was three over after seven holes.
However, the 24-year-old stormed back into contention by making a birdie on the 18th followed by birdies on two, four, five and seven.
“I am just trying to play steady golf,” said Apichart, who turned professional in 2010.
“This is turning out to be one of my best tournaments and I am very excited to be in this position.”
His best finish on the ASEAN PGA Tour came in last year’s Sabah Masters when he tied for sixth.
Apichart enjoyed an impressive amateur career which was highlighted by being part of the Thai team that triumphed in the 2009 Putra Cup.
He had the privilege of being taught to play golf at the age of 12 by the great Boonchu Ruangkit at the Royal Army Course.
Inclement weather caused a two hour and 15 minutes delay mid way thru the round.
Choo was on the green of his last hole facing an eagle putt when players were called off the course. He returned later and two putted for a birdie, for his third birdie on the trot.
The rookie is still on a high after a fine performance in last week’s Barclays Singapore Open - where he made the cut and earned a cheque for US$19,200.
Said Choo: “My game has been up and down this year. It is because of my mental game. I have been trying too hard and putting pressure on myself. I have not been letting things go naturally. Last week was a big confidence boost for me. Playing on a hard course with the big guys gave me a mental boost.”
Lying in a tie for third place four shots off the lead are Thailand’s Wisut Artjanawat, Chawinroj Krobteeranon, Annop Tangkamolprasert, and Pravee Visalkit and Malaysian Kenneth De Silva and George Gandranata from Indonesia.
The Gowa Classic is the first professional tournament staged in Makassar - a port city located on Sulawesi Island, Indonesia. Gowa is located on the perimeter of Makassar.
Leading second round scores:
139 - Apichart Papitak (THA) 69 70
141 - Choo Tze Huang (SIN) 71 70
143 - Wisut Artjanawat (THA) 73 70, Kenneth De Silva (MAS) 72 71, George Gandranata (INA) 71 72, Chawinroj Krobteeranon (THA) 72 71, Annop Tangkamolprasert (THA) 73 70, Pravee Visalkit (THA) 72 71
144 - Benny Kasiadi (INA) 73 71, Choengchai Panpumpo (THA) 70 74, Andik Mauluddin (INA) 73 71
145 - Piya Swangarunporn (THA) 73 72, Wittawat Sae-Ung (THA) 71 74
147 - Varit Chomchalam (THA) 76 71, Tanatchan Puaktes (THA) 76 71, Johannes Dermawan (INA) 74 73, Ekalak Waisayakul (THA) 77 70, Pawin Ingkhapradit (THA) 74 73
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Gandranata And Kow In Hot Pursuit At Padivalley Gowa Classic
Gowa, November 14 - Thailand’s Apichart Papitak, taught to play golf by the great Boonchu Ruangkit, took the first round lead in the inaugural US$100,000 Gowa Classic today.
He carded a three-under-par 69 at Padivalley Golf Club on the ASEAN PGA Tour, while his countryman Choengchai Panpumpo fired a 70.
Singapore’s Choo Tze Huang, Wittawat Sae-Ung from Thailand, and Indonesians George Gandranata and amateur Elki Kow all shot 71.
“I went out in four under but then missed four short birdie putts on the back nine so it is a bit disappointing,” said Apichart.
“This is a really good golf course and great to play but it was very windy at times so that also made scoring hard. I haven’t played well this year so it is nice to make a good start.”
He made an eagle and two birdies on the outward half.
His eagle on the par-five seventh came after he reached the green with his five wood second shot and holed a huge 50 foot putt. His only bogey of the day came on the 11th.
The 24-year-old turned professional in 2010 a year after helping Thailand win the Putra Cup in a team that included Thanyakon Khrongpha.
“When I was 12 years old I first started playing golf at the Royal Army Course where Boonchu (Ruangkit) played and he gave me my first lessons. He spent seven years coaching me,” added Apichart.
Apichart has a long way to go to match the feats of Boonchu, who has triumphed twice in the Thailand Open in 1992 and 2004.
However, the Bangkok native showed today that he is starting to find his feet in the professional game.
Choo made a solid start clearly still boosted by a fine performance in last week’s Barclays Singapore Open that saw him make the cut and earn a handsome cheque for US$19,200.
Said Choo: “It was tough out there with the wind. I made a great up and down to save par on the last and help make a good start to the week. I am feeling focused and working hard at staying patient.”
Fellow rookie Gandranata, one of Indonesia’s rising stars, bounced back after a poor two over par front nine by touring the inward stretch in three under that included four birdies in the last seven holes.
“I hung in there and never gave up. That paid off. It is very important for me to play well in my country,” said Gandranata.
He was paired with Thailand’s Wisut Artjanawat, who won last year’s ASEAN PGA Tour Order of Merit title.
Wisut shot a 73, an impressive round considering he arrived late last night and did not get a practice round on what is a brand new golf course.
Lidya Ivana Jaya, Indonesia’s only female professional, carded a commendable 84.
Leading first round scores:
69 - Apichart Papitak (THA)
70 - Choengchai Panpumpo (THA)
71 - Elki Kow (am) (INA), Wittawat Sae-Ung (THA), Choo Tze Huang (SIN), George Gandranata (INA)
72 - Hamzah Rachmadi (INA), Chawinroj Krobteeranon (THA), Pravee Visalkit (THA), Kenneth De Silva (MAS)
73 - Andik Mauluddin (INA), Justin Han (SIN), Annop Tangkamolprasert (THA), Benny Kasiadi (INA), Wisut Artjanawat (THA), Piya Swangarunporn (THA)
74 - Pawin Ingkhapradit (THA), Nguyen Thai Duong (VNM), Pornlapat Wongchindawest (THA), Jordan Irawan (am) (INA), Ian Andrew (INA), Johannes Dermawan (INA), Asep Caprie Supriyatna (INA)
He carded a three-under-par 69 at Padivalley Golf Club on the ASEAN PGA Tour, while his countryman Choengchai Panpumpo fired a 70.
Singapore’s Choo Tze Huang, Wittawat Sae-Ung from Thailand, and Indonesians George Gandranata and amateur Elki Kow all shot 71.
“I went out in four under but then missed four short birdie putts on the back nine so it is a bit disappointing,” said Apichart.
“This is a really good golf course and great to play but it was very windy at times so that also made scoring hard. I haven’t played well this year so it is nice to make a good start.”
He made an eagle and two birdies on the outward half.
His eagle on the par-five seventh came after he reached the green with his five wood second shot and holed a huge 50 foot putt. His only bogey of the day came on the 11th.
The 24-year-old turned professional in 2010 a year after helping Thailand win the Putra Cup in a team that included Thanyakon Khrongpha.
“When I was 12 years old I first started playing golf at the Royal Army Course where Boonchu (Ruangkit) played and he gave me my first lessons. He spent seven years coaching me,” added Apichart.
Apichart has a long way to go to match the feats of Boonchu, who has triumphed twice in the Thailand Open in 1992 and 2004.
However, the Bangkok native showed today that he is starting to find his feet in the professional game.
Choo made a solid start clearly still boosted by a fine performance in last week’s Barclays Singapore Open that saw him make the cut and earn a handsome cheque for US$19,200.
Said Choo: “It was tough out there with the wind. I made a great up and down to save par on the last and help make a good start to the week. I am feeling focused and working hard at staying patient.”
Fellow rookie Gandranata, one of Indonesia’s rising stars, bounced back after a poor two over par front nine by touring the inward stretch in three under that included four birdies in the last seven holes.
“I hung in there and never gave up. That paid off. It is very important for me to play well in my country,” said Gandranata.
He was paired with Thailand’s Wisut Artjanawat, who won last year’s ASEAN PGA Tour Order of Merit title.
Wisut shot a 73, an impressive round considering he arrived late last night and did not get a practice round on what is a brand new golf course.
Lidya Ivana Jaya, Indonesia’s only female professional, carded a commendable 84.
Leading first round scores:
69 - Apichart Papitak (THA)
70 - Choengchai Panpumpo (THA)
71 - Elki Kow (am) (INA), Wittawat Sae-Ung (THA), Choo Tze Huang (SIN), George Gandranata (INA)
72 - Hamzah Rachmadi (INA), Chawinroj Krobteeranon (THA), Pravee Visalkit (THA), Kenneth De Silva (MAS)
73 - Andik Mauluddin (INA), Justin Han (SIN), Annop Tangkamolprasert (THA), Benny Kasiadi (INA), Wisut Artjanawat (THA), Piya Swangarunporn (THA)
74 - Pawin Ingkhapradit (THA), Nguyen Thai Duong (VNM), Pornlapat Wongchindawest (THA), Jordan Irawan (am) (INA), Ian Andrew (INA), Johannes Dermawan (INA), Asep Caprie Supriyatna (INA)
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
George Gandranata Aiming For Victory At Inaugural Gowa Classic
Gowa, November 13 - Indonesian rookie George Gandranata has one huge advantage over his rivals in this week’s inaugural Gowa Classic at Padivalley Golf Club.
Last year he graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a degree in economics and as the great Bobby Jones once famously said: "Golf is 99% mental, and the other 1% is in your mind!"
The US$100,000 Gowa Classic, which tees off tomorrow, is the penultimate event on this year’s ASEAN PGA Tour.
Gandranata leads a strong field of players hoping to claim the top prize of US$16,675.
Thailand’s Wisut Artjanawat, winner of last year’s ASEAN PGA Tour Order of Merit title, Singapore’s Choo Tze Huang and Koh Dengshan, and Malaysian Kenneth de Silva are some of the fancied runners.
Andik Mauludin and Benny Kasiadi lead the local challenge along with Gandranata.
Gandranata turned professional in January this year and has produced a number of strong performances including fourth place in last month’s Palembang Musi Championship, on the ASEAN PGA Tour.
Said the 26-year-old: “I did well at university but I always knew I was going to turn pro. I love traveling and it is a good life. I am not really keen on being stuck in an office.”
In last year’s SEA Games he won bronze in the individual section which helped his country claim silver.
“This year could have been better. As a golfer we are never satisfied but considering this is my first year I am pretty happy with it. You have to put things into perspective. We are out here playing golf and it is a blessing,” said the Indonesian.
He was born in Jakarta but moved to high school in America when he was 15 where he excelled in the amateur game.
In 2009 he triumphed in the Northern Californian Amateur and the following year was successful in the San Francisco Championship - the oldest amateur tournament in the world – and the Alameda Commuters tournament. Those victories including 14 successive Matchplay wins.
He also played in the 2005 US Amateur, won by Italian Edoardo Molinari, and the 2009 US Amateur, where New Zealand’s Danny Lee triumphed.
Said Gandranata: “Next year my plan is to get full status on either OneAsia or the Asian Tour and within three or four years the European Tour or even the PGA Tour. We should dream big. Might as well right? What I have learned this year is to have fun. We do this week in and week out and you just have to enjoy it.”
The Gowa Classic is the first professional tournament staged in Makassar - a port city located on Sulawesi Island, Indonesia. Gowa is located on the perimeter of Makassar.
The staging of the event has been made possible by the construction of Padivalley, which is a brand new golf club that the tournament will play an important role in launching.
“At Padivalley we believe we have built a golf course that will quickly become known as one of the finest in Indonesia,” said Felix Tandiawan, Director, Padivalley Golf Club.
Padivalley boasts a highly-rated 18-hole championship course designed by JMP Group. The club also has an impressive clubhouse with the Gowa highlands and their beautiful foothills providing a lush backdrop.
Last year he graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a degree in economics and as the great Bobby Jones once famously said: "Golf is 99% mental, and the other 1% is in your mind!"
The US$100,000 Gowa Classic, which tees off tomorrow, is the penultimate event on this year’s ASEAN PGA Tour.
Gandranata leads a strong field of players hoping to claim the top prize of US$16,675.
Thailand’s Wisut Artjanawat, winner of last year’s ASEAN PGA Tour Order of Merit title, Singapore’s Choo Tze Huang and Koh Dengshan, and Malaysian Kenneth de Silva are some of the fancied runners.
Andik Mauludin and Benny Kasiadi lead the local challenge along with Gandranata.
Gandranata turned professional in January this year and has produced a number of strong performances including fourth place in last month’s Palembang Musi Championship, on the ASEAN PGA Tour.
Said the 26-year-old: “I did well at university but I always knew I was going to turn pro. I love traveling and it is a good life. I am not really keen on being stuck in an office.”
In last year’s SEA Games he won bronze in the individual section which helped his country claim silver.
“This year could have been better. As a golfer we are never satisfied but considering this is my first year I am pretty happy with it. You have to put things into perspective. We are out here playing golf and it is a blessing,” said the Indonesian.
He was born in Jakarta but moved to high school in America when he was 15 where he excelled in the amateur game.
In 2009 he triumphed in the Northern Californian Amateur and the following year was successful in the San Francisco Championship - the oldest amateur tournament in the world – and the Alameda Commuters tournament. Those victories including 14 successive Matchplay wins.
He also played in the 2005 US Amateur, won by Italian Edoardo Molinari, and the 2009 US Amateur, where New Zealand’s Danny Lee triumphed.
Said Gandranata: “Next year my plan is to get full status on either OneAsia or the Asian Tour and within three or four years the European Tour or even the PGA Tour. We should dream big. Might as well right? What I have learned this year is to have fun. We do this week in and week out and you just have to enjoy it.”
The Gowa Classic is the first professional tournament staged in Makassar - a port city located on Sulawesi Island, Indonesia. Gowa is located on the perimeter of Makassar.
The staging of the event has been made possible by the construction of Padivalley, which is a brand new golf club that the tournament will play an important role in launching.
“At Padivalley we believe we have built a golf course that will quickly become known as one of the finest in Indonesia,” said Felix Tandiawan, Director, Padivalley Golf Club.
Padivalley boasts a highly-rated 18-hole championship course designed by JMP Group. The club also has an impressive clubhouse with the Gowa highlands and their beautiful foothills providing a lush backdrop.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Indonesia Runner Up At World Golfers Championship
The spirit of national pride and prestige that embellishes World Golfers Championship was proudly borne by the winners of The 18th Amateur World Golfers Championship. In a runaway victory, Malaysia proudly raised the winning team trophy after finishing on an impressive 1191 Nett, 31 shots ahead of Indonesia who finished in 2nd place on 1230 Nett and South Africa Team 1 clipped their counterparts to finish in a proud 3rd place on 1243 Nett over the four day’s championship golf.
Abnormal storms and torrential rain across KZN played havoc with the conditions for play throughout the championship, but the golfers accepted the adverse golfing conditions as ‘par for the course’, kept their heads down and their eyes fixed on the trophy at stake.
Determination, perseverance and the ‘drive to win’ for TEAM South Africa culminated in a well deserved home victory in D Division for Andries Claassens who made the team for the second year in a row, and a 3rd placing for Babs Narsiah in the C Division. Sixteen-year-old sensation, Jessica Dreesbeimdieke from Namibia, brought the ‘girl power’ back to the A Division with her win, making it the second consecutive year that this flight has been won by a lady.
The WGI saw a dominating presence from the eastern countries throughout the championship with Sweden taking the trophy home for 2012. Close on their heels in second place was AM Bank 2 from Malaysia with Malaysia 1 claiming the third place on the podium.
In memory of the endearing, loving and kind spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship that the founder of World Golfers Championship, Sven Tumba brought to the world of golf, the Sven Tumba Spirit Trophy is awarded to the team that embraces this same philosophy. This year, the ladies from Namibia return home with the trophy in recognition of their enthusiasm, playing the championship with a positive attitude and total compliance on all requirements.
In a further tribute to the vision of Sven Tumba to develop numeracy and literacy through sport, MEC Michael Mabuyakhulu, together with World Golf Events South Africa handed over a cheque for R100 000 to the Sven Tumba Education Fund in commitment to Sven’s legacy that every child has the right to grow up with love, with play, with sports and above all with education.
Commenting on the province’s hosting of The 18th Amateur World Golfers Championship, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development and Tourism, Michael Mabuyakhulu, said, “In view that most of the golfers are people with premier standings in their respective countries and the world over, we see them as our social partners and ambassadors that will emerge out of this event with beautiful stories to share about KwaZulu-Natal with fellow compatriots and friends who consider visiting and investing in the province.”
Nils Nordh, CEO and Chairman of World Golfers Championship, said, “I am proud to report that the high standard of organisation and facilities has once again been achieved and that South Africa has been the perfect location for new golfers to the championship to tee-off for the first time.”
Craig Clay-Smith, spokesperson for World Golf Events South Africa, the local event owners and organisers, said, “The success and international acclaim for this year’s event is attributed to the joint collaboration of World Golf Events SA, Tourism Kwazulu-Natal, Trade & Investment KwaZulu-Natal and the Department of Economic Development & Tourism, lead by the visionary MEC Michael Mabuyakhulu MPP and his unwavering support and belief in golf as a sport that promotes tourism and closes the divide between cultural diversity. A further thanks also goes out to Tsogo Sun for coming on board as the new host accommodation partner and to the Independent Newspaper Group and Business Report for their fantastic media coverage.”
The final results of The 18th Amateur World Golfers Championship are as follows:
CHAMPIONSHIP
The top 3 countries
0-5 Flighting
6-10 Flighting
11-15 Flighting
16-20 Flighting
21-25 Flighting
INVITATIONAL
The top 3 countries
0-5 Flighting
6-10 Flighting
11-15 Flighting
16-20 Flighting
21-25 Flighting
26-30 Flighting
Abnormal storms and torrential rain across KZN played havoc with the conditions for play throughout the championship, but the golfers accepted the adverse golfing conditions as ‘par for the course’, kept their heads down and their eyes fixed on the trophy at stake.
Determination, perseverance and the ‘drive to win’ for TEAM South Africa culminated in a well deserved home victory in D Division for Andries Claassens who made the team for the second year in a row, and a 3rd placing for Babs Narsiah in the C Division. Sixteen-year-old sensation, Jessica Dreesbeimdieke from Namibia, brought the ‘girl power’ back to the A Division with her win, making it the second consecutive year that this flight has been won by a lady.
The WGI saw a dominating presence from the eastern countries throughout the championship with Sweden taking the trophy home for 2012. Close on their heels in second place was AM Bank 2 from Malaysia with Malaysia 1 claiming the third place on the podium.
In memory of the endearing, loving and kind spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship that the founder of World Golfers Championship, Sven Tumba brought to the world of golf, the Sven Tumba Spirit Trophy is awarded to the team that embraces this same philosophy. This year, the ladies from Namibia return home with the trophy in recognition of their enthusiasm, playing the championship with a positive attitude and total compliance on all requirements.
In a further tribute to the vision of Sven Tumba to develop numeracy and literacy through sport, MEC Michael Mabuyakhulu, together with World Golf Events South Africa handed over a cheque for R100 000 to the Sven Tumba Education Fund in commitment to Sven’s legacy that every child has the right to grow up with love, with play, with sports and above all with education.
Commenting on the province’s hosting of The 18th Amateur World Golfers Championship, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development and Tourism, Michael Mabuyakhulu, said, “In view that most of the golfers are people with premier standings in their respective countries and the world over, we see them as our social partners and ambassadors that will emerge out of this event with beautiful stories to share about KwaZulu-Natal with fellow compatriots and friends who consider visiting and investing in the province.”
Nils Nordh, CEO and Chairman of World Golfers Championship, said, “I am proud to report that the high standard of organisation and facilities has once again been achieved and that South Africa has been the perfect location for new golfers to the championship to tee-off for the first time.”
Craig Clay-Smith, spokesperson for World Golf Events South Africa, the local event owners and organisers, said, “The success and international acclaim for this year’s event is attributed to the joint collaboration of World Golf Events SA, Tourism Kwazulu-Natal, Trade & Investment KwaZulu-Natal and the Department of Economic Development & Tourism, lead by the visionary MEC Michael Mabuyakhulu MPP and his unwavering support and belief in golf as a sport that promotes tourism and closes the divide between cultural diversity. A further thanks also goes out to Tsogo Sun for coming on board as the new host accommodation partner and to the Independent Newspaper Group and Business Report for their fantastic media coverage.”
The final results of The 18th Amateur World Golfers Championship are as follows:
CHAMPIONSHIP
The top 3 countries
| 1st | Malaysia | 1191 Nett | |
| 2nd | Indonesia | 1230 Nett | |
| 3rd | South Africa 1 | 1243 Nett |
0-5 Flighting
| 1st | Jessica Dreesbeimdieke | Namibia | 300 Nett |
| 2nd | Vikkash Babu | Singapore | 306 Nett |
| 3rd | Nguyen Ngoc Bao | Vietnam | 307 Nett |
6-10 Flighting
| 1st | Pakhrudin Adb Majid | Malaysia | 291 Nett |
| 2nd | Butrinov Audrey | Russia | 304 Nett |
| 3rd | Sergey Gayduk | Armenia | 308 Nett |
11-15 Flighting
| 1st | F Wangdduoli | China | 294 Nett |
| 2nd | Wilna Bredenhann | Namibia | 303 Nett |
| 3rd | Babs Narsiah | South Africa | 306 Nett |
16-20 Flighting
| 1st | Andries Claassens | South Africa | 294 Nett |
| 2nd | Leornard Kim | Indonesia | 295 Nett |
| 3rd | Zainal Abidin Ujud | Malaysia | 299 Nett |
21-25 Flighting
| 1st | Chiang Sooi Yee | Malaysia | 289 Nett |
| T2nd | F Xuhong | China | 303 Nett |
| T2nd | Soh Seow Poh | Singapore | 303 Nett |
INVITATIONAL
The top 3 countries
| 1st | Sweden 1 | 597 Nett | |
| 2nd | AM Bank Malaysia 2 | 610 Nett | |
| 3rd | Malaysia 1 | 625 Nett |
0-5 Flighting
| 1st | Leif Jansson | Sweden | 310 Nett |
| 2nd | Hans Lichtenberg | Vietnam | 312 Nett |
| 3rd | Sue Dieners | Germany | 317 Nett |
6-10 Flighting
| 1st | Patrik Hogland | Sweden | 287 Nett |
| 2nd | Jari Siebenberg | Finland | 310 Nett |
| 3rd | Isac Saminathan | Malaysia | 311 Nett |
11-15 Flighting
| 1st | Farroul Hossey Adbullah | Malaysia | 314 Nett |
| 2nd | Hans Borgstrom | Sweden | 318 Nett |
| 3rd | Tomas Llanza Ortiz | Spain | 320 Nett |
16-20 Flighting
| 1st | Hamden A Rahman | Malaysia | 302 Nett |
| 2nd | Khamsiah Ahmad | Malaysia | 308 Nett |
| 3rd | Shaharudin Ismail | Malaysia | 310 Nett |
21-25 Flighting
| 1st | Indri Pietoyo | Indonesia | 320 Nett |
| 2nd | Krzysztof Materna | Poland | 326 Nett |
| 3rd | Sebastian Cheng Chee Yin | Singapore | 329 Nett |
26-30 Flighting
| 1st | Jason Dinata | Indonesia | 316 Nett |
| 2nd | Pawel Kubicki | Poland | 329 Nett |
| 3rd | Wlodzimierz Bryla | Poland | 332 Nett |
George Gandranata Aiming At Victory At PGM-MIDF-KLGCC Masters
Kuala Lumpur, November 7 - Talented hopefuls Jeremiah Kim of Malaysia and George Gandranata of Indonesia are taking aim at a maiden victory at the PGM-MIDF-KLGCC Masters, starting Thursday.
Kim and Gandranata, both playing in their first season as a professional, are among a strong cast gathered at the RM180,000 (approximately US$60,000) event, which is the penultimate Asian Development Tour (ADT) tournament.
Peter Richardson of England, second on the Order of Merit, Ryan Bulloch of Australia and Chinese Taipei duo Hsieh Chi-hsien and Hsu Mong-nan, who finished tied second in Sarawak last week, will resume their Merit chase at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club.
Meanwhile Kim, ranked 41st on the Order of Merit, is aware that the ADT offers more than just an Asian Tour card for 2013 as the top-15 players starting from fourth position on the Order of Merit at the end of the season will earn berths to the 2013 Qualifying School Final Stage in Thailand.
“I want to try and finish as high as I can on the Order of Merit. The goal is to earn an Asian Tour card but if I can’t do that, at least the ADT gives me the chance to skip the First Stage of Qualifying School and go straight to the Final stage,” said the 18-year-old.
With many young players earning their stripes on the Asian Tour, Kim is hopeful that he will follow in their footsteps in the future.
“I’m enjoying my time on the ADT but it is tough. There are many talented young players on the Asian Tour and I feel that I can get to their level too. All these come with experience which I’m getting on the ADT,” said Kim.
Gandranata hopes to accomplish his ultimate goal of winning an ADT title at the PGM-MIDF-KLGCC Masters.
“The goal hasn’t changed. I hope I can win one tournament but it isn’t as easy as it sounds. All these guys are good. In terms of goals, I’m still gunning for the win and an Asian Tour card,” said the 26-year-old.
Like Kim, the Indonesian has seen vast improvements in his game and was rewarded with two top-20s on the ADT this season.
“At the start of the year, I was gunning to make the cut but now I’m trying for top-10 or even to win. I’ve seen a lot of improvement. My scoring average is lower so there’s definitely an improvement,” added the Indonesian, who holds a Masters in economics from the University of Berkeley in California.
The ADT has grown from five events since its inauguration in 2010 and has expanded to a record of 13 events this year. The ADT will also be afforded with Official World Golf Ranking status in 2013 which is a huge boost for the development of the game in Asia.
Kim and Gandranata, both playing in their first season as a professional, are among a strong cast gathered at the RM180,000 (approximately US$60,000) event, which is the penultimate Asian Development Tour (ADT) tournament.
Peter Richardson of England, second on the Order of Merit, Ryan Bulloch of Australia and Chinese Taipei duo Hsieh Chi-hsien and Hsu Mong-nan, who finished tied second in Sarawak last week, will resume their Merit chase at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club.
Meanwhile Kim, ranked 41st on the Order of Merit, is aware that the ADT offers more than just an Asian Tour card for 2013 as the top-15 players starting from fourth position on the Order of Merit at the end of the season will earn berths to the 2013 Qualifying School Final Stage in Thailand.
“I want to try and finish as high as I can on the Order of Merit. The goal is to earn an Asian Tour card but if I can’t do that, at least the ADT gives me the chance to skip the First Stage of Qualifying School and go straight to the Final stage,” said the 18-year-old.
With many young players earning their stripes on the Asian Tour, Kim is hopeful that he will follow in their footsteps in the future.
“I’m enjoying my time on the ADT but it is tough. There are many talented young players on the Asian Tour and I feel that I can get to their level too. All these come with experience which I’m getting on the ADT,” said Kim.
Gandranata hopes to accomplish his ultimate goal of winning an ADT title at the PGM-MIDF-KLGCC Masters.
“The goal hasn’t changed. I hope I can win one tournament but it isn’t as easy as it sounds. All these guys are good. In terms of goals, I’m still gunning for the win and an Asian Tour card,” said the 26-year-old.
Like Kim, the Indonesian has seen vast improvements in his game and was rewarded with two top-20s on the ADT this season.
“At the start of the year, I was gunning to make the cut but now I’m trying for top-10 or even to win. I’ve seen a lot of improvement. My scoring average is lower so there’s definitely an improvement,” added the Indonesian, who holds a Masters in economics from the University of Berkeley in California.
The ADT has grown from five events since its inauguration in 2010 and has expanded to a record of 13 events this year. The ADT will also be afforded with Official World Golf Ranking status in 2013 which is a huge boost for the development of the game in Asia.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Inaugural Gowa Classic Launched On ASEAN PGA Tour
Makassar, November 1 - The ASEAN PGA Tour will once again chart new territory for professional golf in the region when it heads to the Gowa Classic in Makassar this month.
The US$100,000 tournament will be played at Padivalley Golf Club from November 14 to 17 and is the penultimate event of the season on the ASEAN PGA Tour.
The ASEAN PGA Tour has established a reputation for staging tournaments in cities and countries that are new to golf and Makassar is another fine example.
The Gowa Classic will be the first professional tournament staged in Makassar - a port city located on Sulawesi Island, Indonesia.
The staging of the event has been made possible by the construction of Padivalley, which is a brand new golf club that the tournament will play an important role in launching.
“At Padivalley we believe we have built a golf course that will quickly become known as one of the finest in Indonesia,” said Felix Tandiawan, Director, Padivalley Golf Club.
“We have already received excellent reviews about the course and clubhouse and so we are looking forward to unveiling our club to players on the ASEAN PGA Tour. The tournament provides us with an excellent opportunity to promote Padivalley in the early stages of its launch.”
Padivalley boasts a highly-rated 18-hole championship course designed by JMP Group. The club also has an impressive clubhouse with the Gowa highlands and their beautiful foothills providing a lush backdrop.
The starting field is currently being finalized but feature many leading players from Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.
“The debut of the Gowa Classic is another example of how golf is booming in all parts of Indonesia. The tournament is a truly welcome addition to the schedule for our local circuit and the ASEAN PGA Tour as it provides invaluable playing opportunities for members,” said Syafei Asnap, Chairman, Indonesia PGA.
For the Gowa Classic, like all ASEAN PGA events, a one-hour highlights show will be produced by World Sport Group and broadcast on ESPN.
“This year we staged a professional golf tournament in Laos for the first time and another first sees us heading to the wonderful city of Makassar. All the players and officials are truly looking forward to the Gowa Classic, a new tournament that has the potential to last for many years,” said AC Wong, Executive Chairman, ASEAN PGA.
Last Sunday Malaysian Nicholas Fung won his second title on the ASEAN PGA Tour when he claimed the Palembang Musi Championship.
He fired a final round four-under-par 68 to beat Thailand’s Gunn Charoenkul by two at Palembang Golf Club and move to the top of the money list.
The result meant Fung, Gunn and Filipino Jay Bayron qualified for the US$6 million Barclays Singapore Open next week as they are the leading three players from the money list.
The US$100,000 tournament will be played at Padivalley Golf Club from November 14 to 17 and is the penultimate event of the season on the ASEAN PGA Tour.
The ASEAN PGA Tour has established a reputation for staging tournaments in cities and countries that are new to golf and Makassar is another fine example.
The Gowa Classic will be the first professional tournament staged in Makassar - a port city located on Sulawesi Island, Indonesia.
The staging of the event has been made possible by the construction of Padivalley, which is a brand new golf club that the tournament will play an important role in launching.
“At Padivalley we believe we have built a golf course that will quickly become known as one of the finest in Indonesia,” said Felix Tandiawan, Director, Padivalley Golf Club.
“We have already received excellent reviews about the course and clubhouse and so we are looking forward to unveiling our club to players on the ASEAN PGA Tour. The tournament provides us with an excellent opportunity to promote Padivalley in the early stages of its launch.”
Padivalley boasts a highly-rated 18-hole championship course designed by JMP Group. The club also has an impressive clubhouse with the Gowa highlands and their beautiful foothills providing a lush backdrop.
The starting field is currently being finalized but feature many leading players from Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.
“The debut of the Gowa Classic is another example of how golf is booming in all parts of Indonesia. The tournament is a truly welcome addition to the schedule for our local circuit and the ASEAN PGA Tour as it provides invaluable playing opportunities for members,” said Syafei Asnap, Chairman, Indonesia PGA.
For the Gowa Classic, like all ASEAN PGA events, a one-hour highlights show will be produced by World Sport Group and broadcast on ESPN.
“This year we staged a professional golf tournament in Laos for the first time and another first sees us heading to the wonderful city of Makassar. All the players and officials are truly looking forward to the Gowa Classic, a new tournament that has the potential to last for many years,” said AC Wong, Executive Chairman, ASEAN PGA.
Last Sunday Malaysian Nicholas Fung won his second title on the ASEAN PGA Tour when he claimed the Palembang Musi Championship.
He fired a final round four-under-par 68 to beat Thailand’s Gunn Charoenkul by two at Palembang Golf Club and move to the top of the money list.
The result meant Fung, Gunn and Filipino Jay Bayron qualified for the US$6 million Barclays Singapore Open next week as they are the leading three players from the money list.
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