Jakarta, August 24 - James Byrne of Scotland produced a grandstand finish when he holed a remarkable eagle on the last to win the US$100,000 Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament by three shots on Sunday.
The 25-year-old Byrne fired three birdies in each half and sealed the deal with a 40-foot eagle putt for a flawless eight-under-par 64 to bag his second Asian Development Tour (ADT) title at the Damai Indah Golf, BSD Course.
Tour rookie William Sjaichudin (65) raised local cheers by claiming his best result on the ADT tied second alongside overnight leader Brett Munson (70) of the United States on 274.
Malaysia’s Arie Irawan (70), Nils Floren (67) of Sweden, Anura Rohana (68) of Sri Lanka and Annop Tangkamolprasert (67) of Thailand finished a further shot back in tied fourth in the inaugural ADT event.
Byrne, a former Walker Cup star, was delighted to return into the winners’ circle after enduring a frustrating 2013 Asian Tour season where he lost his Tour card.
He hopes that his victory in Indonesia, which pushed him to eighth position on the ADT Order of Merit, will be a sign of better things to come as he aims to finish inside the top-five on the Merit rankings at the end of the season to regain an Asian Tour card for 2015.
“This is by far my most satisfying win,” smiled the dashing Byrne, who prior to his victory only made three cuts in eight appearances on the ADT this season.
“I didn’t play well on the Asian Tour to keep my card and I’ve been disappointed that I haven’t been closer to the top-five on the ADT Order of Merit. Hopefully this win will change things,” said Byrne, who won US$17,500 and earned six Official World Golf Ranking points.
“I’ve been playing so badly and at some point, you think on what you have been doing with your career. I’ve been working on the right things and change doesn’t happen immediately. I knew what I was doing in practice and I was confident the scores will improve,” he added.
Indonesia’s Sjaichudin overcame his initial jitters by shooting four birdies and one bogey in his opening six holes before adding four birdies on his homeward nine to enjoy his best placing on the ADT since turning professional early in 2014.
“I was very nervous in the first four holes because I haven’t been in this position for a long time. I think it was a good thing to have pressure because I was more focused. I will definitely play in more ADT events to gain more experience,” said the 23-year-old.
Starting this season, the ADT will reward the top five players on the final Order of Merit with playing rights for the 2015 Asian Tour season.
This is a significant boost for aspiring professionals on the ADT as it is the highest number of Asian Tour cards up for grabs since the burgeoning Tour was inaugurated as a gateway to the Asian Tour in 2010. Only the top three players on the final ADT Order of Merit for each season obtained their Asian Tour cards in the past.
Leading fourth round scores:
271 – James BYRNE (SCO) 64 74 69 64
274 – William SJAICHUDIN (INA) 71 70 68 65, Brett MUNSON (USA) 71 68 65 70
275 – Annop TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 69 69 70 67, Nils FLOREN (SWE) 71 70 67 67, Anura ROHANA (SRI) 68 72 67 68, Arie IRAWAN (MAS) 68 71 66 70
276 – Sattaya SUPUPRAMAI (THA) 69 68 71 68
277 – Pijit PETCHKASEM (THA) 70 71 69 67, Jake STIRLING (AUS) 68 70 70 69
278 – Michael MOORE (AUS) 71 65 69 73
279 – Airil Rizman ZAHARI (MAS) 69 71 71 68
280 – LAM Chih Bing (SIN) 74 71 67 68, Grant JACKSON (ENG) 71 70 72 67, Joshua Andrew WIRAWAN (INA) 74 71 69 66, Yuki USAMI (JPN) 72 72 71 65, Niall TURNER (IRL) 69 67 73 71
281 – Samuel CHIEN (USA) 72 71 69 69, Peter RICHARDSON (ENG) 70 72 68 71
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Saturday, August 23, 2014
Turner Aiming For Second ADT Win On Indonesian Soil At Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament
Jakarta, August 22 - Niall Turner of Ireland launched his bid for a second win in Indonesia by shooting a five-under-par 67 to share the second round lead with Michael Moore of Australia in the inaugural Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament on Friday.
Turner, who won his first Asian Development Tour (ADT) title last month in Jakarta, traded six birdies against one bogey for an eight-under-par 136 total which was matched by Moore, who fired a superb 65 in the US$100,000 ADT event.
Ye Jian-feng of China and Thai brothers Sattaya and Poosit Supupramai registered 69, 68 and 70 respectively to share third place at the Damai Indah Golf, BSD Course. Overnight leader James Byrne of Scotland stumbled to a 74 to tie in sixth place with Jake Stirling of Australia and Annop Tangkamolprasert on 138.
Best local player is William Sjaichudin who carded a 70 today for a 141 total, which puts him in a halfway tie for 17th place. Meanwhile Indonesia's top players George Gandranata (74) and Rory Hie (74) both missed the cut by one and 4 shots respectively.
Turner continues to play some of his best golf after undergoing surgery to recover from a hip injury which hampered his golf career for several years. His only blemish of the day came after a three-putt on the sixth hole but he recovered brilliantly courtesy of his sharp-shooting approach shots.
“I played great and I didn’t seem to miss the green. Everything worked for me. I’ve been hitting the ball really good lately so it is great to be leading again,” said the 31-year-old Turner.
“I really enjoy Jakarta. I won my first ADT title here and it is nice to be back. Everything about the country is nice. It isn’t too warm here as well so I feel comfortable out on the course,” he explained.
Moore shot the lowest round of the day courtesy of an eagle three on the fourth hole which he holed from five feet after hitting a solid five iron from 191 metres. He was delighted to be in contention for a first ADT win.
“It was a pretty steady round. The wind picked up today but I played a lot of smart golf. Obviously it was a good eagle and I was glad to birdie two of my last three holes to share the lead,” said Moore.
Byrne, a former Walker Cup star and a winner on the ADT, slipped down the leaderboard after carding three birdies against three bogeys and one double bogey.
“I didn’t hole as many putts as I did in the first round. I wasn’t expecting to shoot another 64 but I was trying to shoot under par. There is a low score on this golf course but you have to be careful where you place your shots,” said the 25-year-old Byrne.
The halfway cut was set at one-over-par 145 with a total of 52 players progressing into the weekend rounds.
Starting this season, the ADT will reward the top five players on the final Order of Merit with playing rights for the 2015 Asian Tour season.
This is a significant boost for aspiring professionals on the ADT as it is the highest number of Asian Tour cards up for grabs since the burgeoning Tour was inaugurated as a gateway to the Asian Tour in 2010. Only the top three players on the final ADT Order of Merit for each season obtained their Asian Tour cards in the past.
Leading second round scores:
136 – Niall TURNER (IRL) 69 67, Michael MOORE (AUS) 71 65
137 – YE Jian-feng (CHN) 68 69, Sattaya SUPUPRAMAI (THA) 69 68, Poosit SUPUPRAMAI (THA) 67 70
138 – Jake STIRLING (AUS) 68 70, James BYRNE (SCO) 64 74, Annop TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 69 69
139 – Arie IRAWAN (MAS) 68 71, PARK Jin-Woo (KOR) 71 68, Brett MUNSON (USA) 71 68
140 – Mathiam KEYSER (RSA) 72 68, Paul HARRIS (USA) 68 72, Jay BAYRON (PHI) 69 71, Anura ROHANA (SRI) 68 72, Airil Rizman ZAHARI (MAS) 69 71
141 – Grant JACKSON (ENG) 71 70, Micah Lauren SHIN (USA) 71 70, Darren TAN (AUS) 71 70, William SJAICHUDIN (INA) 71 70, Nabil ABDUL (AUS) 71 70, Pijit PETCHKASEM (THA) 70 71, Nils FLOREN (SWE) 71 70, Zaw MOE (MYN) 68 73
Turner, who won his first Asian Development Tour (ADT) title last month in Jakarta, traded six birdies against one bogey for an eight-under-par 136 total which was matched by Moore, who fired a superb 65 in the US$100,000 ADT event.
Ye Jian-feng of China and Thai brothers Sattaya and Poosit Supupramai registered 69, 68 and 70 respectively to share third place at the Damai Indah Golf, BSD Course. Overnight leader James Byrne of Scotland stumbled to a 74 to tie in sixth place with Jake Stirling of Australia and Annop Tangkamolprasert on 138.
Best local player is William Sjaichudin who carded a 70 today for a 141 total, which puts him in a halfway tie for 17th place. Meanwhile Indonesia's top players George Gandranata (74) and Rory Hie (74) both missed the cut by one and 4 shots respectively.
Turner continues to play some of his best golf after undergoing surgery to recover from a hip injury which hampered his golf career for several years. His only blemish of the day came after a three-putt on the sixth hole but he recovered brilliantly courtesy of his sharp-shooting approach shots.
“I played great and I didn’t seem to miss the green. Everything worked for me. I’ve been hitting the ball really good lately so it is great to be leading again,” said the 31-year-old Turner.
“I really enjoy Jakarta. I won my first ADT title here and it is nice to be back. Everything about the country is nice. It isn’t too warm here as well so I feel comfortable out on the course,” he explained.
Moore shot the lowest round of the day courtesy of an eagle three on the fourth hole which he holed from five feet after hitting a solid five iron from 191 metres. He was delighted to be in contention for a first ADT win.
“It was a pretty steady round. The wind picked up today but I played a lot of smart golf. Obviously it was a good eagle and I was glad to birdie two of my last three holes to share the lead,” said Moore.
Byrne, a former Walker Cup star and a winner on the ADT, slipped down the leaderboard after carding three birdies against three bogeys and one double bogey.
“I didn’t hole as many putts as I did in the first round. I wasn’t expecting to shoot another 64 but I was trying to shoot under par. There is a low score on this golf course but you have to be careful where you place your shots,” said the 25-year-old Byrne.
The halfway cut was set at one-over-par 145 with a total of 52 players progressing into the weekend rounds.
Starting this season, the ADT will reward the top five players on the final Order of Merit with playing rights for the 2015 Asian Tour season.
This is a significant boost for aspiring professionals on the ADT as it is the highest number of Asian Tour cards up for grabs since the burgeoning Tour was inaugurated as a gateway to the Asian Tour in 2010. Only the top three players on the final ADT Order of Merit for each season obtained their Asian Tour cards in the past.
Leading second round scores:
136 – Niall TURNER (IRL) 69 67, Michael MOORE (AUS) 71 65
137 – YE Jian-feng (CHN) 68 69, Sattaya SUPUPRAMAI (THA) 69 68, Poosit SUPUPRAMAI (THA) 67 70
138 – Jake STIRLING (AUS) 68 70, James BYRNE (SCO) 64 74, Annop TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 69 69
139 – Arie IRAWAN (MAS) 68 71, PARK Jin-Woo (KOR) 71 68, Brett MUNSON (USA) 71 68
140 – Mathiam KEYSER (RSA) 72 68, Paul HARRIS (USA) 68 72, Jay BAYRON (PHI) 69 71, Anura ROHANA (SRI) 68 72, Airil Rizman ZAHARI (MAS) 69 71
141 – Grant JACKSON (ENG) 71 70, Micah Lauren SHIN (USA) 71 70, Darren TAN (AUS) 71 70, William SJAICHUDIN (INA) 71 70, Nabil ABDUL (AUS) 71 70, Pijit PETCHKASEM (THA) 70 71, Nils FLOREN (SWE) 71 70, Zaw MOE (MYN) 68 73
Top Indonesian Juniors To Participate In Kids Golf World Championship 2014 In Malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR, August 20 - Young golfers from around the region and as far as South Africa will be heading to Malaysia to compete in the Kids Golf World Championship 2014 to be held in Johor Baru from December 8 to 12.
Among them will be top junior golfers from Indonesia who have keenly participated in the tournament for the past two years.
Among the Indonesian juniors who took podium placing last year were Alfred Raja Sitohang who came in second in the Boys 11-year category and Gavrilla Arya who was Runner-Up in the 15-18 year age group for girls.
Among those who finished third last year were Almer Noreen Nurdaffa (Boys 10-years) and Rivani Adelia Sihotang (Girls 13-14 age group).
Over 400 young people between the ages of five and 18 years from over 20 countries are expected to compete in the prestigious tournament, which is being held in Malaysia for the third consecutive year.
The championship is the international version of the prestigious US Kids Golf Tournament and provides an excellent opportunity for young people to compete in a World Championship in their quest to become future top professional players.
Chris Vonderkall, Vice President for Tournaments for U.S. Kids Golf, said it was great that the tournament held in Malaysia has seen growth over the past two years.
“Having players come back year after year is a great testament to the success and organisation of the championship. The juniors in Malaysia and surrounding countries greatly benefit from the championship. It is a great stage to showcase their talents and show the world how good these junior players are,” he said in an interview.
He said bringing the great game of golf to juniors and their families was a mission of U.S. Kids Golf and added that the Malaysian chapter helps fulfill this mission.
“We hope it continues for many years to come. I think the organizing team has done a great job. It is a major undertaking organizing that many juniors, their families, courses and volunteers. Each year the team learns more and comes better the following year,” he said.
He said the U.S. Kids Golf being held around the world have over 10,000 juniors from 40 over countries participating in the program and the international growth was a big opportunity for more youngsters to play top notch golf and added that U.S. Kids Golf was excited to help grow junior golf in Malaysia.
Kids Golf World Championship Malaysia 2014 is an offshoot of the US Kids Golf Foundation established in 2001. The US Kids Golf World Championship was envisioned as a platform to provide kids and their families to participate in the game of golf through instruction and competition. Its primary mission is to help kids have fun learning the basics of golf while encouraging interaction among family members to build lasting memories.
The Kids Golf World Championship is presented by US Kids Golf in partnership with Royal Sporting House (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd and managed by Concept Collaboration Sdn Bhd.
The championship is also sanctioned by the Malaysian Golf Association and supported by Malaysia Major Events, a division of Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau, an agency under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture. The championship offers world amateur ranking points.
B. Sukumaran of Concept Collaboration said the response from the juniors have been overwhelming with over 180 juniors from overseas sending their requests to participate.
“Only the US Kids tournament has the format where the juniors get to play against players in the same age group. Exposure of competing with kids from around the world is a rare opportunity for Malaysian youngsters and they get to do it in Malaysia.
“It is also cost effective for the local participants. For foreign participants coming to Malaysia it is much cheaper and the experience that they gained money can’t buy,” he said.
The tournament offers prizes for boys in 8 categories and girls in 7 categories. Boys’ categories are: 7 years and below, 8 years, 9 years, 10 years, 11 years, 12 years, combined age group of 13 and 14 years and 15 to 18 years. Girls’ categories are 8 years and below, 9 years, 10 years, 11 years, 12 years, combined 13 and 14 years and 15 to 18 years.
The last day of the tournament will feature a Best of Malaysia vs Rest of the World, in a match play format akin to the Ryder Cup.
The Kids Golf World Championship provides junior boys and girls of all ages with the most competitive field and the ultimate tournament experience thus preparing them for their future in the world of golf.
Many of the players travel to Malaysia with their family members and also get to enjoy the sights, sounds and warm hospitality of Malaysians thus returning home with happy memories of the host country, thus help promote tourism in the country.
Among them will be top junior golfers from Indonesia who have keenly participated in the tournament for the past two years.
Among the Indonesian juniors who took podium placing last year were Alfred Raja Sitohang who came in second in the Boys 11-year category and Gavrilla Arya who was Runner-Up in the 15-18 year age group for girls.
Among those who finished third last year were Almer Noreen Nurdaffa (Boys 10-years) and Rivani Adelia Sihotang (Girls 13-14 age group).
Over 400 young people between the ages of five and 18 years from over 20 countries are expected to compete in the prestigious tournament, which is being held in Malaysia for the third consecutive year.
The championship is the international version of the prestigious US Kids Golf Tournament and provides an excellent opportunity for young people to compete in a World Championship in their quest to become future top professional players.
Chris Vonderkall, Vice President for Tournaments for U.S. Kids Golf, said it was great that the tournament held in Malaysia has seen growth over the past two years.
“Having players come back year after year is a great testament to the success and organisation of the championship. The juniors in Malaysia and surrounding countries greatly benefit from the championship. It is a great stage to showcase their talents and show the world how good these junior players are,” he said in an interview.
He said bringing the great game of golf to juniors and their families was a mission of U.S. Kids Golf and added that the Malaysian chapter helps fulfill this mission.
“We hope it continues for many years to come. I think the organizing team has done a great job. It is a major undertaking organizing that many juniors, their families, courses and volunteers. Each year the team learns more and comes better the following year,” he said.
He said the U.S. Kids Golf being held around the world have over 10,000 juniors from 40 over countries participating in the program and the international growth was a big opportunity for more youngsters to play top notch golf and added that U.S. Kids Golf was excited to help grow junior golf in Malaysia.
Kids Golf World Championship Malaysia 2014 is an offshoot of the US Kids Golf Foundation established in 2001. The US Kids Golf World Championship was envisioned as a platform to provide kids and their families to participate in the game of golf through instruction and competition. Its primary mission is to help kids have fun learning the basics of golf while encouraging interaction among family members to build lasting memories.
The Kids Golf World Championship is presented by US Kids Golf in partnership with Royal Sporting House (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd and managed by Concept Collaboration Sdn Bhd.
The championship is also sanctioned by the Malaysian Golf Association and supported by Malaysia Major Events, a division of Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau, an agency under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture. The championship offers world amateur ranking points.
B. Sukumaran of Concept Collaboration said the response from the juniors have been overwhelming with over 180 juniors from overseas sending their requests to participate.
“Only the US Kids tournament has the format where the juniors get to play against players in the same age group. Exposure of competing with kids from around the world is a rare opportunity for Malaysian youngsters and they get to do it in Malaysia.
“It is also cost effective for the local participants. For foreign participants coming to Malaysia it is much cheaper and the experience that they gained money can’t buy,” he said.
The tournament offers prizes for boys in 8 categories and girls in 7 categories. Boys’ categories are: 7 years and below, 8 years, 9 years, 10 years, 11 years, 12 years, combined age group of 13 and 14 years and 15 to 18 years. Girls’ categories are 8 years and below, 9 years, 10 years, 11 years, 12 years, combined 13 and 14 years and 15 to 18 years.
The last day of the tournament will feature a Best of Malaysia vs Rest of the World, in a match play format akin to the Ryder Cup.
The Kids Golf World Championship provides junior boys and girls of all ages with the most competitive field and the ultimate tournament experience thus preparing them for their future in the world of golf.
Many of the players travel to Malaysia with their family members and also get to enjoy the sights, sounds and warm hospitality of Malaysians thus returning home with happy memories of the host country, thus help promote tourism in the country.
Friday, August 15, 2014
Rory Hie Misses Cut At Fiji International
Fiji, August 15 - Former amateur star Jake Higginbottom from Australia took the halfway lead in the US$1 million Fiji International today following an impressive three-under-par 69.
In windy conditions at Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course, designed by Fijian star Vijay Singh who is also competing, he moved to the top of the leader board on seven under.
His countrymen Cameron Smith (68), Steve Jeffress (70) and Andrew Dodt (71) are two shots back in an event jointly sanctioned by the PGA Tour of Australasia and OneAsia.
Overnight leader Wang Minghao from China had a poor day shooting an 82 and missed the five over par cut by one shot.
Three-time Major winner Singh carded a 74 and is three over for the inaugural event.
In 2012, Higginbottom became the first amateur in more than half a century to win the BMW New Zealand Open and he showed today that he is just as comfortable playing as a member of the professional ranks.
“It was pretty windy out there this morning,” said the 20-year-old.
“It is a great course and challenging especially when the wind gets up. I feel I have my game plan worked out and need to stick to that for next few days. I need to be smart but also aggressive. Out here you want to have as many shots as you can to be in front. You have got to make birdies but having said that even par is a good score.”
He started his round on the 10th and made two glorious birdies on 17 and 18. His only bogey came on the ninth hole.
“It is a great position to be in and this is what we play for, hopefully I can play well tomorrow and be in the same position.”
Indian star Anirban Lahiri, winner of the 2014 CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters earlier this year and fresh from competing in last week’s US PGA Championship, came in with a strong 69 to sit six off the lead.
Said the Indian: “That felt good especially after the long journey to get here from the States. I am in a nice position going into the weekend. Sixty nine was a good score today.”
China’s Liang Wenchong, a four-time winner on OneAsia, is on the same score after returning a 71.
“I am getting used to the course as today was my third round on the course this week,” said Liang.
“It was windy but I have learned how to handle it and will work hard to get into position to challenge at the weekend. I am really enjoying playing in Fiji. It is my first time here and the people are just so friendly.”
The 2010 OneAsia Order of Merit champion was helped by birdies on 16 and 17.
Nick Price from Zimbabwe, a three-time Major winner, finished right on the halfway cut line after shooting a 76.
Playing 74 in the first round, Indonesia's Rory Hie had a poor second round with 3 birdies, 3 bogeys, 2 double bogeys, and a disastrous quadruple bogey on the par 4 16th, a hole he birdied the day before, missing the cut by 5 strokes with a total score of 154.
In windy conditions at Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course, designed by Fijian star Vijay Singh who is also competing, he moved to the top of the leader board on seven under.
His countrymen Cameron Smith (68), Steve Jeffress (70) and Andrew Dodt (71) are two shots back in an event jointly sanctioned by the PGA Tour of Australasia and OneAsia.
Overnight leader Wang Minghao from China had a poor day shooting an 82 and missed the five over par cut by one shot.
Three-time Major winner Singh carded a 74 and is three over for the inaugural event.
In 2012, Higginbottom became the first amateur in more than half a century to win the BMW New Zealand Open and he showed today that he is just as comfortable playing as a member of the professional ranks.
“It was pretty windy out there this morning,” said the 20-year-old.
“It is a great course and challenging especially when the wind gets up. I feel I have my game plan worked out and need to stick to that for next few days. I need to be smart but also aggressive. Out here you want to have as many shots as you can to be in front. You have got to make birdies but having said that even par is a good score.”
He started his round on the 10th and made two glorious birdies on 17 and 18. His only bogey came on the ninth hole.
“It is a great position to be in and this is what we play for, hopefully I can play well tomorrow and be in the same position.”
Indian star Anirban Lahiri, winner of the 2014 CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters earlier this year and fresh from competing in last week’s US PGA Championship, came in with a strong 69 to sit six off the lead.
Said the Indian: “That felt good especially after the long journey to get here from the States. I am in a nice position going into the weekend. Sixty nine was a good score today.”
China’s Liang Wenchong, a four-time winner on OneAsia, is on the same score after returning a 71.
“I am getting used to the course as today was my third round on the course this week,” said Liang.
“It was windy but I have learned how to handle it and will work hard to get into position to challenge at the weekend. I am really enjoying playing in Fiji. It is my first time here and the people are just so friendly.”
The 2010 OneAsia Order of Merit champion was helped by birdies on 16 and 17.
Nick Price from Zimbabwe, a three-time Major winner, finished right on the halfway cut line after shooting a 76.
Playing 74 in the first round, Indonesia's Rory Hie had a poor second round with 3 birdies, 3 bogeys, 2 double bogeys, and a disastrous quadruple bogey on the par 4 16th, a hole he birdied the day before, missing the cut by 5 strokes with a total score of 154.
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
ADT Hopefuls Line Up For Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament
Jakarta, August 11 - Talented ADT stars from over 22 countries will battle for honors at the US$100,000 Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament which makes its debut on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) from August 21 to 24.
The inaugural event, which will be played at the BSD course by Damai Indah Golf, will raise this season’s events to a record total of 20 on the burgeoning Tour. The Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament will be the 13th stop on the ADT schedule and the second tournament to be held in Jakarta this season.
Local talents George Gandranata, who won three titles on the domestic circuit this year, Rory Hie and Andik Mauludin will spearhead the home charge against a strong international field which includes ADT winners Pavit Tangkamolprasert of Thailand, England’s Grant Jackson, American James Bowen and 2012 Order of Merit champion Jay Bayron of the Philippines.
Gandranata, who claimed his first top-10 result on the ADT in Chinese Taipei last week, is excited with the new event, where he hopes to challenge for his first ADT victory.
“Having a new ADT tournament in Indonesia is definitely good for local players like me because we get more exposure from playing in international events. It was a great experience playing with established golfers in Chinese Taipei two weeks ago. Hopefully I can bring forward the good momentum to the Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament,” said the 28-year-old.
Ir. Ciputra, founder and chairman of Ciputra Business Group as well as sponsor of the inaugural Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament, said: “We are excited with the launch of the Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament and we are honoured to be involved with the ADT for the first time.
“The ADT is the gateway to the Asian Tour and we hope this tournament will provide the opportunity for Indonesian players to fast-track their careers. We look forward to a very successful tournament,” added Ir. Ciputra.
Irfan Hamid, Asian Tour’s Associate Director of Business Development, was thrilled to welcome the Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament as the newest tournament on the ADT Schedule.
“On behalf of our talented players, I would like to express our fullest appreciation to Mr. Ciputra and the PGTI for their support of professional golf in Asia. We are privileged to welcome the Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament on the ADT Schedule and we hope to unearth many more rising stars of the game through this new and exciting event,” said Irfan.
Johannes Irwan Dermawan, President of the newly established Professional Golf Tour of Indonesia (PGTI), also hailed the establishment of the Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament on the ADT.
“We’re very delighted to partner with Ir. Ciputra as well as the ADT for this inaugural Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament which I am sure will play a key role in shaping the growth of the sport in the country,” said Dermawan.
Apart from the Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament and Jakarta Classic on the ADT, there are two other events staged in Indonesia on the Asian Tour schedule, the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters which was held in April and the Indonesia Open which is scheduled to be played from December 4 to 7.
Starting this season, the ADT will reward the top five players on the final Order of Merit with playing rights on the 2015 Asian Tour season.
This is a significant boost for aspiring professionals on the ADT as it is the highest number of Asian Tour cards up for grabs since the burgeoning Tour was inaugurated as a gateway to the Asian Tour in 2010. Only the top three players on the final ADT Order of Merit for each season obtained their Asian Tour cards in the past.
The inaugural event, which will be played at the BSD course by Damai Indah Golf, will raise this season’s events to a record total of 20 on the burgeoning Tour. The Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament will be the 13th stop on the ADT schedule and the second tournament to be held in Jakarta this season.
Local talents George Gandranata, who won three titles on the domestic circuit this year, Rory Hie and Andik Mauludin will spearhead the home charge against a strong international field which includes ADT winners Pavit Tangkamolprasert of Thailand, England’s Grant Jackson, American James Bowen and 2012 Order of Merit champion Jay Bayron of the Philippines.
Gandranata, who claimed his first top-10 result on the ADT in Chinese Taipei last week, is excited with the new event, where he hopes to challenge for his first ADT victory.
“Having a new ADT tournament in Indonesia is definitely good for local players like me because we get more exposure from playing in international events. It was a great experience playing with established golfers in Chinese Taipei two weeks ago. Hopefully I can bring forward the good momentum to the Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament,” said the 28-year-old.
Ir. Ciputra, founder and chairman of Ciputra Business Group as well as sponsor of the inaugural Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament, said: “We are excited with the launch of the Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament and we are honoured to be involved with the ADT for the first time.
“The ADT is the gateway to the Asian Tour and we hope this tournament will provide the opportunity for Indonesian players to fast-track their careers. We look forward to a very successful tournament,” added Ir. Ciputra.
Irfan Hamid, Asian Tour’s Associate Director of Business Development, was thrilled to welcome the Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament as the newest tournament on the ADT Schedule.
“On behalf of our talented players, I would like to express our fullest appreciation to Mr. Ciputra and the PGTI for their support of professional golf in Asia. We are privileged to welcome the Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament on the ADT Schedule and we hope to unearth many more rising stars of the game through this new and exciting event,” said Irfan.
Johannes Irwan Dermawan, President of the newly established Professional Golf Tour of Indonesia (PGTI), also hailed the establishment of the Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament on the ADT.
“We’re very delighted to partner with Ir. Ciputra as well as the ADT for this inaugural Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament which I am sure will play a key role in shaping the growth of the sport in the country,” said Dermawan.
Apart from the Ciputra Golfpreneur Tournament and Jakarta Classic on the ADT, there are two other events staged in Indonesia on the Asian Tour schedule, the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters which was held in April and the Indonesia Open which is scheduled to be played from December 4 to 7.
Starting this season, the ADT will reward the top five players on the final Order of Merit with playing rights on the 2015 Asian Tour season.
This is a significant boost for aspiring professionals on the ADT as it is the highest number of Asian Tour cards up for grabs since the burgeoning Tour was inaugurated as a gateway to the Asian Tour in 2010. Only the top three players on the final ADT Order of Merit for each season obtained their Asian Tour cards in the past.
Saturday, August 9, 2014
Ernie Els Firm Appointed For Renovation Of Lido Golf Course
Indonesian development firm MNC Land has announced plans for a complete renovation of the Lido Resort golf course in West Java. The group has hired Ernie Els Design to lead the renovation, and IMG Golf Course Services to provide construction and pre-opening management.
MNC acquired the resort in July 2013 and has plans to develop hotels, villas, a theme park and other supporting infrastructure at the site over several years. It will be the Els firm’s first project in Indonesia. Planning works have been completed, and construction is expected to start within the next month.
Founded in 1990 and owned by tycoon Hary Tanoesoedibjo, MNC Land is among Indonesia’s leading property development firms. Lido is MNC’s first resort project, while the company is also planning an integrated resort development at Mandalika in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. The 2,000 hectare Lido project will cost the company a total of US$2-3 billion and is likely eventually to incorporate a second golf course.
The Lido course renovation will see the creation of five completely new holes, while existing hole corridors will be reworked for the rest of the course. The new-look course is expected to open in early 2016.
MNC acquired the resort in July 2013 and has plans to develop hotels, villas, a theme park and other supporting infrastructure at the site over several years. It will be the Els firm’s first project in Indonesia. Planning works have been completed, and construction is expected to start within the next month.
Founded in 1990 and owned by tycoon Hary Tanoesoedibjo, MNC Land is among Indonesia’s leading property development firms. Lido is MNC’s first resort project, while the company is also planning an integrated resort development at Mandalika in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. The 2,000 hectare Lido project will cost the company a total of US$2-3 billion and is likely eventually to incorporate a second golf course.
The Lido course renovation will see the creation of five completely new holes, while existing hole corridors will be reworked for the rest of the course. The new-look course is expected to open in early 2016.
Friday, August 8, 2014
Ketut Sugiarta Wins Indonesian Golf Tour's 7th Round At Matoa Nasional
Jakarta, 7 August 2014 - I Ketut Sugiarta claimed victory at the seventh edition of the Indonesian Golf Tour presented by Linc Group at Matoa Nasional Golf Course. Generating six birdies in his final round, Ketut compiled a total of seven-under-par (209) and sealed his victory and prize money of Rp32.000.000 for his hard work.
“I’m grateful with my result today. My aim on this tournament was to play safe hole by hole. I didn’t want to push my game,” said Ketut.
“The Indonesian Golf Tour is great. It definitely is improving our level of play for professional golfers of Indonesia. Sanctioned by PGTI and supported by all the sponsors, especially Linc Group, I just want to say thanks for the tour series. The Indonesian Golf Tour is a great example on how to improve and develop golf in Indonesia” added the champion of the day, Ketut Sugiarta.
Motivated to qualify for the Grand finale of the Indonesian Golf Tour in December 2014, Ketut has been practicing his game more than usual. The 'Road to the Indonesian Golf Tour Championship' tournament will be held at the Jakarta Golf Club (Rawamangun) with total prize money of Rp 500,000,000 for the top thirty ranked Indonesian golf professionals from the Order of Merit of the Indonesian Golf Tour.
Kevin Caesario Akbar finished as the Best Male Amateur on a count-back with a total score six-over-par (222), while Gianti Mahardika took the lead from Juriah on a count-back to become the Best Female Amateur of the 7th edition of Indonesian Golf Tour presented by Linc Group.
The ladies amateur participants including, Juriah, Ika Woro, Yeyen Safitri and Gianti Mahardika are all hoping that more ladies amateurs will participates in the upcoming Indonesian Golf Tour. These ladies all expressed their feelings of gratefulness for the tour where they can hone their skills and become the next Indonesian ladies professional golfers.
This round was snother huge success for the Indonesian Golf Tour presented by Linc Group and PGTI by hosting such a great tournament for the betterment of golf in Indonesia. A big thank you to Linc Group too for their great support as well as Matoa Nasional Golf Course and its staff who have been such good hosts for the event.
“I’m grateful with my result today. My aim on this tournament was to play safe hole by hole. I didn’t want to push my game,” said Ketut.
“The Indonesian Golf Tour is great. It definitely is improving our level of play for professional golfers of Indonesia. Sanctioned by PGTI and supported by all the sponsors, especially Linc Group, I just want to say thanks for the tour series. The Indonesian Golf Tour is a great example on how to improve and develop golf in Indonesia” added the champion of the day, Ketut Sugiarta.
Motivated to qualify for the Grand finale of the Indonesian Golf Tour in December 2014, Ketut has been practicing his game more than usual. The 'Road to the Indonesian Golf Tour Championship' tournament will be held at the Jakarta Golf Club (Rawamangun) with total prize money of Rp 500,000,000 for the top thirty ranked Indonesian golf professionals from the Order of Merit of the Indonesian Golf Tour.
Kevin Caesario Akbar finished as the Best Male Amateur on a count-back with a total score six-over-par (222), while Gianti Mahardika took the lead from Juriah on a count-back to become the Best Female Amateur of the 7th edition of Indonesian Golf Tour presented by Linc Group.
The ladies amateur participants including, Juriah, Ika Woro, Yeyen Safitri and Gianti Mahardika are all hoping that more ladies amateurs will participates in the upcoming Indonesian Golf Tour. These ladies all expressed their feelings of gratefulness for the tour where they can hone their skills and become the next Indonesian ladies professional golfers.
This round was snother huge success for the Indonesian Golf Tour presented by Linc Group and PGTI by hosting such a great tournament for the betterment of golf in Indonesia. A big thank you to Linc Group too for their great support as well as Matoa Nasional Golf Course and its staff who have been such good hosts for the event.
Thursday, August 7, 2014
Ketut Sugiarta Maintains Lead In Indonesian Golf Tour At Matoa Nasional
Jakarta, 6 August 2014 - I Ketut Sugiarta held his game together to score more birdies on round two of the Indonesian Golf Tour presented by Linc Group at Matoa Nasional Golf Course. Strong wind continued to challenge the participating professional and amateur golfers, making their decision making on game play difficult. Despite this, Ketut managed to generate six birdies with a total of five-under-par (139) and secure his position as the leader of the day.
“I tried to play my normal game. You have to trust your feelings to beat the wind out there. I will keep using the same strategy for tomorrow and we’ll see.” Said Ketut who’s in 8th place in the current Indonesian Golf Tour Order of Merit.
Tailing Sugiarta with one-under -par, Indra Hermawan played an even par round tied with Junaidi Ibrahim. Firm fairways and greens were another challenge on the course.
Young promising rookie, Fajar Win Nuryanto, who turned professional in early 2014, said that the Indonesian Golf Tour series has helped him improve his game.
“I’m glad for the tour, and thanks to all involved and supporting the tour. This series has motivated me to get better. My target this year is to reach the top 20. Currently I’m in 26th position.” said Fajar who finished round two tied for fifth place.
Kevin Caesario Akbar took the lead for the men amateur class and signed-in with five-over-par (149) to overtake overnight leader, Danny Masrin of the USA.
Defending her position for the ladies amateurs and scoring 76 in round two, Juriah signed-in a total score of 154. Chasing her in second place is Gianti Mahardika, climbing from 4th place in round one, with a total score of 159.
“I tried to play my normal game. You have to trust your feelings to beat the wind out there. I will keep using the same strategy for tomorrow and we’ll see.” Said Ketut who’s in 8th place in the current Indonesian Golf Tour Order of Merit.
Tailing Sugiarta with one-under -par, Indra Hermawan played an even par round tied with Junaidi Ibrahim. Firm fairways and greens were another challenge on the course.
Young promising rookie, Fajar Win Nuryanto, who turned professional in early 2014, said that the Indonesian Golf Tour series has helped him improve his game.
“I’m glad for the tour, and thanks to all involved and supporting the tour. This series has motivated me to get better. My target this year is to reach the top 20. Currently I’m in 26th position.” said Fajar who finished round two tied for fifth place.
Kevin Caesario Akbar took the lead for the men amateur class and signed-in with five-over-par (149) to overtake overnight leader, Danny Masrin of the USA.
Defending her position for the ladies amateurs and scoring 76 in round two, Juriah signed-in a total score of 154. Chasing her in second place is Gianti Mahardika, climbing from 4th place in round one, with a total score of 159.
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
Ketut Sugiarta And Irmansyah Share Lead After First Day Of The Indonesian Golf Tour At Matoa Nasional
Jakarta, 5 August 2014: The Indonesian Golf Tour presented by Linc Group is back with its 7th edition being played at Matoa Nasional Golf Course. Despite strong wind conditions, both Ketut and Irmansyah played a brilliant round of golf by signing a two-under-par (70) to close their first rounds. Ketut recorded an eagle, 3 birdies and 3 bogies while Irmansyah racked up 3 birdies and a bogey.
“I have not played this course for a long time. My last round at Padang Golf Matoa Nasional was 3 years ago. The course is in good shape. Green speed is a bit slow and the rough is tough.”
“Today was a great game. I played each hole carefully to get birdies. The wind made it even harder. You had to read the wind and pick the right equipment to reach the target.” said Irmansyah.
Having not missed one edition of the Indonesian Golf Tour presented by Linc Group since it started in January this year, Irmansyah said that the Indonesian Golf Tour series is helping him growing his game. Believing that the more tournament conducted will change all professional golfer’s faith in Indonesia. Irmansyah hopes that there will be more and more professional golf tournaments in Indonesia.
“I’m grateful for the Indonesian Golf Tour. Thanks to the PGTI and sponsors for what they gave us, the Pros. What we need is more tournaments. I also liked the idea to include men and ladies amateurs to join the tournament. This way they can improve their game with the professional pressure and ambiance.”
“Because of this series (Indonesian Golf Tour presented by Linc Group) my score is getting better in each tournament and not only me, all the professionals golfers have gained more than just better scores. I hope this series will keep continuing every year.” added Irmansyah on his thought about the Indonesian Golf Tour and PGTI.
Tied in 3rd place, Stephen Lindskog and Indra Hermawan signed-in one-under-par (71). Lindskog opened his round with an eagle when he took his second shoot from the fairway and holed-in on the par 4, 10th hole.
“Today was a lucky round. I arrived last night, still jetlagged. But the eagle was a great opening and I tried to keep my game going after that. But let’s see tomorrow.” Stephen smiled.
In the amateur league, Danny Masrin of the USA is leading the amateur pack after signing-in two-over-par (74). As for the ladies, Juriah scored six-over-par (78), followed by Yeyen Safitri and Ika Woro in 2nd and 3rd respectively.
“I have not played this course for a long time. My last round at Padang Golf Matoa Nasional was 3 years ago. The course is in good shape. Green speed is a bit slow and the rough is tough.”
“Today was a great game. I played each hole carefully to get birdies. The wind made it even harder. You had to read the wind and pick the right equipment to reach the target.” said Irmansyah.
Having not missed one edition of the Indonesian Golf Tour presented by Linc Group since it started in January this year, Irmansyah said that the Indonesian Golf Tour series is helping him growing his game. Believing that the more tournament conducted will change all professional golfer’s faith in Indonesia. Irmansyah hopes that there will be more and more professional golf tournaments in Indonesia.
“I’m grateful for the Indonesian Golf Tour. Thanks to the PGTI and sponsors for what they gave us, the Pros. What we need is more tournaments. I also liked the idea to include men and ladies amateurs to join the tournament. This way they can improve their game with the professional pressure and ambiance.”
“Because of this series (Indonesian Golf Tour presented by Linc Group) my score is getting better in each tournament and not only me, all the professionals golfers have gained more than just better scores. I hope this series will keep continuing every year.” added Irmansyah on his thought about the Indonesian Golf Tour and PGTI.
Tied in 3rd place, Stephen Lindskog and Indra Hermawan signed-in one-under-par (71). Lindskog opened his round with an eagle when he took his second shoot from the fairway and holed-in on the par 4, 10th hole.
“Today was a lucky round. I arrived last night, still jetlagged. But the eagle was a great opening and I tried to keep my game going after that. But let’s see tomorrow.” Stephen smiled.
In the amateur league, Danny Masrin of the USA is leading the amateur pack after signing-in two-over-par (74). As for the ladies, Juriah scored six-over-par (78), followed by Yeyen Safitri and Ika Woro in 2nd and 3rd respectively.
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