2 Local Players In Top Twenty At Combiphar Golf Inventational

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leading final round results:

268 - John CATLIN (USA) 70 64 67 67

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

273 - Sam CYR (USA) 70 68 65 70

275 - Mitchell SLORACH (SGP) 70 63 71 71

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

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

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

283 - Benita KASIADI 72 71 72 68

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

285 - Rinaldi ADIYANDONO 72 69 72 72

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leading third round results:

201 - John CATLIN (USA) 70 64 67

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

204 - Mitchell SLORACH (SGP) 70 63 71

205 - Panuwat MUENLEK (THA) 68 69 68

206 - Micah Lauren SHIN (USA) 69 67 70

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

208 - Gavin GREEN (MAS) 73 69 66

Indonesian players (A denotes amateur):

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

212 - Ian ANDREW 72 67 73

213 - Rinaldi ADIYANDONO 72 69 72

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

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

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

12 Local Players Through To Final Rounds At Combiphar Golf Invitational

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leading second round results:

133 - Mitchell SLORACH (SGP) 70-63

134 - John CATLIN (USA) 70-64

135 - Antonio LASCUNA (PHI) 67-68

136 - Micah Lauren SHIN (USA) 69-67

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

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

Indonesian players that made the cut:

139 - Ian ANDREW 72-67

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

142 - George GANDRANATA 75-67

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

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

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

Rifqi Alam Shows Local Pros The Way At Combiphar Golf Invitational

Bogor, Indonesia, November 23 - Tour rookie Kevin Techakanokboon and Filipino stalwart Antonio Lascuna fired identical four-under-par 67s to share the lead in the opening round of the weather-disrupted Combiphar Golf Invitational on Wednesday.

The inaugural US$60,000 Asian Development Tour (ADT) event was suspended for over two hours in the afternoon due to lightning threats before play was abandoned at 6pm local time due to fading light.

A total of 45 players returned on Thursday at 6.15am local time to complete their rounds at the Gunung Geulis Country Club in Bogor, a city in the West Java province of Indonesia. The second round has commenced at 7 am.

Local amateur Rifqi Alam came in one shot back to take third place with Victor Osterby of Denmark and Thailand’s Panuwat Muenlek while another local prospect Indra Hermawan signed for a 69 to sit in sixth alongside Toni Ferrer of Spain and American Micah Lauren Shin.

Rifqi Alam - Photo Asian Development Tour

Kevin, who joined the play-for-pay ranks at the start of the year, surprised even himself when he fired one eagle and four birdies against two bogeys to take the clubhouse lead.

“I honestly do not have any high expectations. I didn’t get much sleep last night. I just tried to stay patient because it’s easy to get frustrated on this course with the way the greens are sloped,” said Kevin, who rammed in a 40-foot eagle putt on par-five 16.

“I hit a good tee shot which left me with a seven-iron for my second shot. I hit it just short of the front edge of the green and holed about a 40-foot putt for the eagle,” added the 24-year-old Thai.

Kevin, who came through the Asian Tour Qualifying School earlier in January, credited his solid drives for a commendable start to his campaign at the Combiphar Golf Invitational.

“I drove the ball well and put myself in good positions to try and make birdies. I did pretty well in limiting careless errors and avoided making bogeys. It’s important to hit as many fairways as you can because the course is very wet. You need to leave yourself with uphill putts with your approach shots too,” he said.

Leading first round results:

67 – Kevin TECHAKANOKBOON (THA), Antonio LASCUNA (PHI)

68 – Rifqi ALAM (A) (INA), Victor OSTERBY (DEN), Panuwat MUENLEK (THA)

69 – Indra HERMAWAN (INA), Toni FERRER (ESP), Micah Lauren SHIN (USA)

70 – Mitchell SLORACH (SGP), Danny MASRIN (INA), Blake SNYDER (USA), Arie IRAWAN (MAS), Sam CYR (USA), Paul HARRIS (USA), John CATLIN (USA)

Veerman Leads Strong Cast To Combiphar Golf Invitational At Gunung Geulis

Bogor, Indonesia, November 22 - Asian Development Tour (ADT) Order of Merit leader Johannes Veerman of the United States will challenge for a second title at ‘home’ when he steps up to the tee at the Combiphar Golf Invitational on Wednesday.

The 22-year-old Texan, whose mother is Indonesian, will lead a host of up and coming players, including 25 ADT champions, to the inaugural US$60,000 event which will be held from November 23 to 26.

Eight players from top-10 on the current ADT Order of Merit will also be part of the 132-man field from over 20 countries vying for honours at the Royal Tulip Gunung Geulis Golf Resorts in Bogor, a city in the West Java province of Indonesia.

Veerman, who came through the Qualifying School earlier in January, enjoyed his best result on the Asian Tour when he finished tied-second at the BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open last week. He will be looking to continue his fine form when he returns to the ADT this week.

Johannes Veerman - Photo Asian Tour

“I have played a lot of tournaments on the ADT and there are a lot of great competition out here. All of that playing experiences and practices on the ADT have been polishing my game,” said Veerman, who claimed his maiden ADT win in Chinese Taipei in July.

“There are a lot of talented players out here. I have been playing great so far this season. Golf is a long and hard road. You need to keep playing well to stay up there. Winning in Chinese Taipei earlier was a confidence booster for me,” he added.

Veerman will feature in the Combiphar Golf Invitational alongside Malaysia’s Gavin Green, Sweden’s Oscar Zetterwall and Itthipat Buranatanyarat of Thailand, placed second, fourth and fifth respectively on the Order of Merit.

George Gandranata, the first and only Indonesian to win on the ADT, will spearhead the home charge alongside Ian Andrew, Jordan Irawan and Danny Masrin, who emerged as the best Indonesian in tied-14th place at the recently-concluded Indonesia Open.

Almay Rayhan Yaqutah, who was the best amateur in tied-27th place at the Indonesia Open, will get another chance to play against the big boys in the Combiphar Golf Invitational, what is the Tour’s second stop in Indonesia this season.

Other notable players in the field include Asian Tour stalwart Antonio Lascuna of the Philippines, Steve Lewton of England, a one-time winner on the region’s premier Tour, as well as American Brett Munson.

All ADT events offer Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points. The winner will receive six OWGR points while the top six players and ties will also earn points based on a sliding scale.

The top-five finishers on the final Order of Merit will secure their Asian Tour cards for 2017.

Second Title For Bhullar At Bank BRI-JCB Indonesia Open

Jakarta, November 21 - Gaganjeet Bhullar of India won the US$300,000 BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open for the second time in his career after closing with a four-under-par 68 on Monday.

Bhullar, who also won the event in 2013, sealed his seventh Asian Tour victory and a second title this season with a 16-under-par 272 total at the Pondok Indah Golf Course.

Gaganjeet Bhullar holding the Indonesia Open trophy, flanked by Minister of State Owned Enterprises Rini Soemarno (left) and Bank BRI President Director Asmawi Syam (right) - Photo Asian Tour

He returned to finish his remaining three holes on Monday morning as play was abandoned due to bad weather on Sunday.

Jeev Milkha Singh of India, a two-time Asian Tour number one, threatened briefly before settling for tied second place, his best result since 2012, after making bogey on the 17th hole to finish on 72.

Thailand’s Danthai Boonma (67), Panuphol Pittayarat (68) and Tour rookie Johannes Veerman (69) of the United States took a share of second alongside Singh on 275s.

The 28-year-old made five birdies in seven holes on Sunday before returning to par his last three holes and clinch his second victory in two months.

With his win at the BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open, Bhullar is now the fifth player after Thaworn Wiratchant of Thailand, Frank Nobilo of New Zealand, Frankie Minoza of the Philippines and Lu Hsi-chuen of Chinese Taipei to win the event twice.

“It is never easy in a Monday finish especially when you only have a two-shot lead. I slept at 7pm last night and woke up at 2am because there was so much adrenaline rush. I just couldn’t focus on anything.

“I was not focused on sleeping. I just could not divert my mind anywhere else apart from the last few holes. At the end of the day I’m proud of myself and I’m glad I pulled it off,” said Bhullar.

“I was full of confidence from tee number one. I told myself that I will play aggressive golf and gave myself a lot of birdie chances. I putted really well and made single putts in the first seven holes,” he added. Bhullar admits that it was a huge test of patience as the weather suspensions made life difficult for the players.

“The week was difficult, it was not easy at all. It was a test of patience but my past experience of winning here before helped. I’ve won before in stop and go week before. The experience really counted this week,” he said.

Singh, who has won 14 titles worldwide but not since 2012, admits it was difficult to chase the dominant Bhullar.

“I played well but Gaganjeet Bhullar started really well yesterday. I tried to push him but I finished second and I’ll take that result as it is my best finish of the year,” said the 44-year-old Singh.

“I think I handled myself really well being in the last group for the first time since 2012! I could have done better but I feel this will give me a lot of confidence heading into the next few weeks. I’m working on a few things which I need to trust more under pressure.”

The young Asian Tour stars have enjoyed huge success in the 2016 season but Singh is determined to return to his best form. “It is great to see the depth of the Asian Tour. It is good to see these young kids hungry and they want to birdie every hole. That’s the way it should be. Gaganjeet is 28 years old and I think sky’s the limit for him,” said Singh.

“It is good to see these young kids doing well. Obviously I want to compete with them. In fact, they push me to do better. They hit good and long drives and I want to keep up with them. Don’t forget age is just a number,” he smiled.

Two Indonesian players also had to complete their round on Monday. Danny Masrin (72) finished T14 with a total of 9-under par, after finishing even par on the last round. With 2 and half hole left to play on Monday he was momentarily at 10-under when birdying the 17th hole, but a bogey on the final hole meant he finished the round even par.
"I intended to make a birdie on these last holes. Since yesterday many balls didn't go in," said Danny.

Participating for the first time in the Indonesia Open was an extraordinary experience for Danny, and he was quite satisfied with his results over the 4 days.

Being on the leaderboard is a good experience. It gives me confidence to compete in upcoming tournaments," he said.

"My game is good. I have no problem with a 9-under result. This is my first time in the Indonesia Open, and also as a professional. At the moment this is a very good result for me," added the 24-year old

Another Indonesian golfer that had to finish his round on Monday, Adrian Halimi, was trying to reduce his over-par result. Closing out in 70, he managed to climb to T65 with a total score of 292 (4-above par).

"I learned a lot here at the Indonesia Open. We should never give up. As amateur there are two outcomes, win or lose. As a pro, every stroke counts. Because what position you end up in will impact many other things. That was advice that fellow pro golfer Mithun Perera gave me during my third round," he explained.

I'm satisfied enough. My main objective was to make the cut, and I achieved that. So my game was according plan, and I will work on improving in the upcoming tournaments", said the former PON XIX athlete from Banten.

Final scores of the Bank BRI-JCB Indonesia Open 2016 being played at the par 72, 7243 Yards Pondok Indah course (am - denotes amateur):

272 - Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND) 71-65-68-68

275 - Danthai BOONMA (THA) 69-71-68-67, Panuphol PITTAYARAT (THA) 70-69-68-68, Johannes VEERMAN (USA) 67-66-73-69, Jeev Milkha SINGH (IND) 71-66-66-72

276 - Dodge KEMMER (USA) 71-69-71-65, Chinnarat PHADUNGSIL (THA) 65-71-72-68

277 - Tirawat KAEWSIRIBANDIT (THA) 69-68-74-66, Pavit TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 70-69-70-68, Akinori TANI (JPN) 72-69-66-70, Lionel WEBER (FRA) 73-62-71-71

278 - Janne KASKE (FIN) 68-67-75-68, Pannakorn UTHAIPAS (THA) 69-66-70-73

279 - Jyoti RANDHAWA (IND) 73-70-68-68, Prom MEESAWAT (THA) 70-70-69-70, Danny MASRIN (INA) 68-72-67-72

280 - Nicolas PAEZ (USA) 68-71-71-70, Adam GROOM (AUS) 70-65-74-71, Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA) 69-67-73-71, HUNG Chien-yao (TPE) 66-67-75-72, Javi COLOMO (ESP) 70-68-70-72.

Weather Pushes Climax Of Bank BRI-JCB Indonesia Open To Monday

Jakarta, November 20 - Gaganjeet Bhullar of India will hold a two-shot advantage when he continues his battle with Jeev Milkha Singh on Monday at the weather-hit BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open.

Bhullar, a six-time Asian Tour winner, was 16-under through 15 holes but Singh continued to pile the pressure on his countryman before a thunderstorm at 1.05pm forced officials to suspend the game. An official announcement was made to stop play for the day at 4.30pm with a total of 19 players returning on Monday at 6.15am to finish the final round.

Thailand’s Danthai Boonma and Panuphol Pittayarat are tied on 13-under with one more hole to play while Dodge Kemmer of the United States fired a 65 to end his campaign on a 276 total at the Pondok Indah Golf Course.

Trailing overnight leader Singh by a single shot, Bhullar took control of the tournament by hitting five birdies in seven holes. He slipped back with a bogey on hole 13 but will hold an edge heading into the last three holes.

“When we play in this part of the world, situations like this are expected. I’m going to treat Monday like Sunday. Mentally I have to tell my mind that I’m getting ready for a Sunday instead of a Monday finish!

“It is always good to be under the gun. That’s when you real play comes out. I’m looking forward to the remainder of the round,” said the 28-year-old Bhullar, who won his sixth Asian Tour title in Korea last month.

“This doesn’t change my game plan. As I said, I’ll just try and repeat the same thing over and over. Looking at the situation, I was totally warmed up and in a good momentum. I’m feeling good so I expect to score in the last three holes,” he added.

Singh, a two-time Asian Tour number one, hit a poor tee shot on the 16th hole before the sirens blared and will need to regroup as he searches for a first victory since 2012. A pair of birdies on holes 13 and 14 will give the Indian some hope on Monday.

“My poor drive will give Gaganjeet the edge now because he can relax and think about things. I was putting the heat on him but now he can put things in perspective,” said Singh, who has won 14 titles around the world.

“It is tough to replicate that Sunday feeling because Monday is usually your day off. I started pushing on the back nine. I think it was going in the right way until the rain came and everything was put on hold. At least I have a chance to win so it will be exciting,” said the 44-year-old.

Although the tournament still leaves 19 golfers who have to complete the remaining holes on Monday, the title of Low Amateur at the BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open is certain to go to Indonesian golfer Almay Rayhan Yaquta. The 18-year-old golfer is the only amateur players who qualified for the cut.

After playing less well in the third round with a score of 75 (3-over-par) he saw his aggregate score reduced to 4-under par, from an impressive 7-under-par after the first two days. Almay finished the fourth round with an additional 1-under-par score for a total of five-under-par (283).

"On Saturday I was nervous. I lost my feeling at some holes. Finally, I got to finish with a three-over-par. Yes thank God. Today also I play hard. In the first nine holes I was at two-over par. A little disappointed. Then, on the second nine holes, I birdied on hole 12. I had the spirit again, but bogeyed again on hole 13. Then I started thinking about resigning to it. Well I make even par after birdies at holes 17, and added another birdie on hole 18," he said.

Almay Rayhan Yaquta - Picture Asian Tour

With a score of 5-under-par (283), Almay finished in T27 position. This score is the best achievement by an Indonesian amateur golfer in the Indonesia Open since 2005. Almay is proud to achieve this in only his second appearance to play at international level such as the Asian Tour. He gained a lot of experience playing here.

"I was fortunate for a chance like this. Not all players can play in this international event. I can learn also here. Can measure how our capabilities are in the Asian Tour. Our experience and game are still far away," he said.

Meanwhile, other representatives for Indonesia, George Gandranata and Jordan S. Irawan, also completed their final round with less than satisfactory results. George made a score of 1-over-par (73), eventually making a total score of even par (288), while Jordan's game worsened in recent days with a score of 78 (6-over-par), which made his position increasingly slip backwards for a score a total of 4-over-par (292).

"I admit I am physically exhausted after playing 28 holes on Saturday, because I had to complete 11 holes that were pending from the second round on Friday. I'm tired. It's a lesson that I have to improve physically in order to not to have this happen again," said Jordan.

Two other Indonesian golfers, Adrian Halimi and Danny Masrin, still need to continue the rest of the fourth round tomorrow. Adrian only needs to play one more hole with a score today of 1-under par, while Danny who currently is at T14 has still possibilities to raise on the leaderboard. He has three holes left with a score of 9-under par.

Asian Tour Tournament Director Jittisak Tamprasert said: “The decision to extend the tournament to Monday was decided after discussing with sponsors and officials. It was a decision made in the best interest of the tournament as we experienced numerous weather suspensions during the week.”

Leading scores:

Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND) -16 through 15 holes

Jeev Milkha SINGH (IND) -14 through 15 holes

Danthai BOONMA (THA) -13 through 17 holes

Panuphol PITTAYARAT (THA) -13 through 17 holes

Scores after round 4 of the Bank BRI-JCB Indonesia Open 2016 being played at the par 72, 7243 Yards Pondok Indah GC course (am – denotes amateur):

276 – Dodge KEMMER (USA) 71-69-71-65

277 – Tirawat KAEWSIRIBANDIT (THA) 69-68-74-66, Pavit TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 70-69-70-68

278 – Janne KASKE (FIN) 68-67-75-68

Selected Indonesian players:

-9 - Danny MASRIN 68-72-67-E

283 - Almay Rayhan YAQUTAH 68-69-75-71

288 - George GANDRANATA 70-72-73-73

292 - Jordan IRAWAN 70-71-73-78

+5 - Adrian HALIMI 71-71-80-+5

Masrin On Verge Of Top Three Finish At Bank BRI-JCB Indonesia Open

Jakarta, November 19 - Jeev Milkh Singh of India fired a flawless six-under-par 66 to lead by one shot in the third round of the BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open on Saturday as he aims to end a four-year title drought.

The two-time Asian Tour number one posted six birdies for a 13-under-par 203 total to set-up a nail-biting finale against countryman Gaganjeet Bhullar, who settled for a 68 after he bogeyed the last hole at the Pondok Indah Golf Course.

Thailand’s Pannakorn Uthaipas returned with a 70 for a 205 total while local talent Danny Masrin trails by four shots after shooting a 67 as he aims to become the second Indonesian to win his National Open since 1989.

Danny Masrin

The penultimate round of the US$300,000 Asian Tour event was suspended at 5.20pm due to darkness and bad weather.

Lionel Weber of France and Johannes Veerman of the United States have yet to finish their rounds where they are nine-under with one hole to play.

The 44-year-old Singh, who has won 14 titles around the world but not since 2012, was delighted to lead in the tournament after finishing 29 holes after the second round was suspended on Friday.

“I’ve been up since four in the morning and I played 29 holes today. I can’t remember the last time I played so many holes. Honestly, my feet are hurting but I should be ready by tomorrow,” he said.

“I want to give these young boys a run for their money. Mentally I’m 21 but physically I’m not. I want to keep playing this game for 10 years and for as long as I play, I want to make the most out of it,” Singh added.

After struggling with injuries in recent years, Singh played some of his best golf with the help of his coach and caddy Amritinder Singh. His young son also followed him for 18 holes to give him added motivation.

“At the end of the day you have to keep believing in yourself and keep working on the right stuff. I’m happy this week because my family are here with me and my son followed me for 18 holes for the first time in my life. I was focussing more on him and I think that helped!” said Singh.

Bhullar put himself in prime position to win the BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open for the second time in his career but he was disappointed to drop a shot on the last hole. He is enjoying a rich vein of form since winning in Korea last month.

“Everything was pretty smooth except the bogey on the last. I’m not pressing the panic button. I’m just trying to recall my memories from winning here before. I know I won this tournament before but it all comes to routine and process,” said the six-time Asian Tour winner.

26-Year-old Pannakorn eagled the sixth hole from 10 yards to give himself a fighting chance at winning his first Asian Tour title as he trails Singh by two shots.

“I’m feeling excited about the final round. I made a lot of good putts this week. I hit some poor shots today but I saved par. I’m feeling confident and I will do my best tomorrow,” said the ever-smiling Thai.

The 24-year-old Masrin, who turned professional last year, reverted to his old putter as he rolled in six birdies to carry the hopes of the nation in the final round. “My new putter felt good but it didn’t feel good in my hand so I decided to use the putter which has worked for me so far. My goal towards the end of the season is to play consistently and I’ve been doing that so hopefully tomorrow I’m holding that trophy,” said Masrin.

Scores after round 3 of the Bank BRI-JCB Indonesia Open 2016 being played at the par 72, 7243 Yards Pondok Indah GC course (am - denotes amateur/Indonesian unless stated):

203 - Jeev Milkha SINGH (IND) 71-66-66

204 - Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND) 71-65-68

205 - Pannakorn UTHAIPAS (THA) 69-66-70

207 - Danny MASRIN 68-72-67, Akinori TANI (JPN) 72-69-66, Panuphol PITTAYARAT (THA) 70-69-68

208 - Danthai BOONMA (THA) 69-71-68, Javi COLOMO (ESP) 70-68-70, Chinnarat PHADUNGSIL (THA) 65-71-72

209 - Prom MEESAWAT (THA) 70-70-69, Rattanon WANNASRICHAN (THA) 70-70-69, Pavit TANGKAMOLPRASERT (THA) 70-69-70, Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA) 69-67-73

Selected:

212 - Almay Rayhan YAQUTAH (am) 68-69-75

214 - Jordan IRAWAN 70-71-73

215 - George GANDRANATA 70-72-73

222 - Adrian HALIMI 71-71-80

Yaquta Nears Top Ten At Bank BRI-JCB Indonesia Open

Jakarta, November 19 - Local amateur Almay Rahman Yaquta continued to surprise the field by leading a group of five Indonesian players into the weekend at the Bank BRI-JCB Indonesian Open.

After thunderstorms and upcoming darkness had stopped the second round late Friday, the 18 year old amateur had to complete his round early Saturday morning and did so with success. His second round score of 69 combined with a first round score of 68 meant he was the highest ranked Indonesian player to go into the weekend in a tie for 11th place.

Danny Masrin, Adrian Halimi and George Gandranata, who all had completed their rounds on Friday, together with Jordan Irawan, who still had to play a few holes Saturday morning, are joining Almay to battle for local honors in Indonesia's oldest tournament.

Johannes Veerman of the United States shot a six-under-par 66 to take the second round clubhouse lead on Friday as he searches for a first Asian Tour victory. The American, whose mum is half Indonesian, eagled the 14th hole for the second consecutive day to finish the round on 11-under-par 133 at the US$300,000 Asian Tour event.

Johannes Veerman teeing of at Bank BRI-JCB Indonesian Open

Hung Chien-yao from Taiwan joined Veerman at the top of the leaderboard on Saturday morning after completing his second round with a 67.

Frenchman Lionel Weber fired a sparkling 62 for the low round of the day as he finished two shots back of the clubhouse target alongside Janne Kaske (67) of Finland at the Pondok Indah Golf Course.

The sweet swinging Veerman made 25 putts in a round of four birdies and one eagle which was his third for the week as he soared into contention at the BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open. After spending most of his youth in Asia, Veerman, who is now based in Texas, hopes to continue his impressive form during the weekend where his mother and relatives will come to support him.

“I played some great golf. I’ve made so many eagles this week which is probably the most I’ve done in my life. I made two eagles yesterday and today on the 14th hole. I don’t know what’s happening but I like it,” said Veerman.

“It is difficult when you are travelling around the world but my mum is Indonesian and she is coming up with my family and they will be out here. I’ll be excited and happy to play in front of them,” he added.

Veerman enjoyed a splendid season on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) this year where he won once. He now hopes to follow in the footsteps of ADT graduates Pavit Tangkamolprasert and Poom Saksansin, who both won on the Asian Tour last month.

“All of that practice on the ADT has been polishing my game. You read about success stories of golfers winning but when you play with these guys (Pavit and Poom) and see them winning, then you tell yourself ‘hey if they can do it, so can I’,” he said.

Frenchman Weber, who is playing in his fourth season on the Asian Tour, fired his career’s low round of 62 where he birdied his closing five holes for a superb homeward nine score of 29-under. “During suspension, I went to the restaurant, had good food and was watching the golf on the television. I got back on the course feeling relaxed and enjoyed my round. Making five birdies in a row gives you a good feeling,” smiled Weber.

“I’ve got nothing to lose this week. I will play offensively. I haven’t won on the Asian Tour yet so it will be superb to do it. I think I’ve secured my Asian Tour card so I hope I can get a win now,” he said.

Kaske, a winner on the ADT, missed a par putt on the 16th hole after the weather delay but bounced back brilliantly when he chipped in for birdie from the edge of the 18th green. “We had a three-hour delay and I was imagining making that lag par putt but I burnt the edge on that one. I’ve had a bad year so far but I’m trying to finish the season strongly. A win will be the best case scenario,” said Kaske.

Scores after round 2 of the Bank BRI-JCB Indonesia Open 2016 being played at the par 72, 7243 Yards Pondok Indah GC course (am - denotes amateur):

133 - Johannes VEERMAN (USA) 67-66, HUNG Chien-yao (TPE) 66-67

135 - Janne KASKE (FIN) 68-67, Lionel WEBER (FRA) 73-62, Khalin JOSHI (IND) 65-70, Adam GROOM (AUS) 70-65

136 - Jazz JANEWATTANANOND (THA) 69-67, Gaganjeet BHULLAR (IND) 71-65, Chinnarat PHADUNGSIL (THA) 65-71
Selected Indonesian players:

137 - Almay Rayhan YAQUTAH (A)

140 - Danny MASRIN 68-72

141 - Jordan IRAWAN 70-71

142 - Adrian HALIMI 71-71, George GANDRANATA 70-72.

Amateur Yaqutah Leads Local Charge At Bank BRI-JCB Indonesia Open

Jakarta, November 17 2016 - Indonesian amateur Almay Rayhan Yaqutah led the local charge by shooting an impressive 68 to tie in ninth place in the first round of the weather-interrupted BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open on Thursday alongside Quincy Quek of Singapore, Ben Leong of Malaysia, Victor Osterby of Denmark and Nicolas Paez of the United States.

Almay Rayhan Yaqutah

Chinnarat Phadungsil of Thailand and Khalin Joshi of India fired identical seven-under-par 65s to share the clubhouse lead at the US$300,000 Asian Tour event that was suspended for over two hours in the afternoon due to lightning threats before play was abandoned at 5.45 pm due to fading light.

Chinnarat, a three-time Asian Tour champion but not since 2009, and Joshi are fighting to retain their playing rights for next year as they currently occupy 73rd and 113th places on the Order of Merit. They must finish inside the top-65 by the end of the season to retain their Tour cards.

A total of 56 players will return on Friday at 6.15 am to complete their rounds at the Pondok Indah Golf Course.

Hung Chien-yao of Chinese Taipei, who is searching for a first Asian Tour title, fired a bogey-free 66 while Korea’s Soonsang Hong, Sukree Othman of Malaysia and two-time Asian Tour winner Jazon Knutzon of the United States, who is also fighting to save his Tour card, are a further shot back.

The 28-year-old Chinnarat, who holds the honor of being the youngest winner on the Asian Tour at the age of 17 years and five days, rediscovered some of his best form by staying focused and keeping to a simple game plan. He fired nine birdies but slipped down the leaderboard when he triple bogeyed the par three eighth hole after his tee shot landed in the greenside bunker.

“I hope this will be my lucky week and I can win again to get my Asian Tour card. I lost confidence but I’ve been trying hard to get that win again,” said Chinnarat.

“I played good because I focused on my game and on the shots I want to hit. Previously, I kept thinking about so many different types of shots so it was very confusing. Now the plan is simple, think of one shot and commit to that shot. No more thinking about trying different shots!” he added.

The big-hitting Joshi is hoping to follow in the footsteps of his close friend Shubhankar Sharma, who finished tied fourth in the Philippines on Sunday to retain his Tour card for the new 2017 season. “I’ve been talking to Shubhankar (Sharma) and he has been a huge influence to me. He had a great week last week and I’m so happy for him. He told me to never give up because you never know what will happen until the last moment like what happened to him.

“I hope to follow in his footsteps and have one good week to keep my card. Once you’ve saved your card, it is a fantastic feeling because you are playing to win and trying to move higher in your career,” said the 24-year-old Joshi.

The 24-year-old Hung, who finished tied seventh in Philippines last week, continued his rich vein of form after working with new caddy Chen Ming-chuan, who is also his coach and a professional golfer. “I’m happy with the result. My playing partners told me that I missed a few good birdie putts so the round could have been lower. My caddy has given me a lot of confidence and he gives me good reads on the greens. It is a good partnership between us,” said Hung.

The 18-year-old amateur Yaqutah, a former individual and team gold medalist at the 2014 ASEAN School Games, fired five birdies against one bogey to enjoy a flying start in his first Asian Tour tournament. “I really had fun today. This is a very good experience for me to play in an Asian Tour event. I’m feeling very happy and excited but after I looked at the score, I’m shaking a bit. Shooting a 68 in an Asian Tour event is quite impressive!” said Yaqutah.
Scores after round 1 of the Bank BRI-JCB Indonesia Open 2016 being played at the par 72, 7243 Yards Pondok Indah GC course (am - denotes amateur):

65 - Khalin JOSHI (IND), Chinnarat PHADUNGSIL (THA)

66 - HUNG Chien-yao (TPE)

67 - Soonsang HONG (KOR), Sukree OTHMAN (MAS), Jason KNUTZON (USA)

68 - Almay Rayhan YAQUTAH (am), Quincy QUEK (SIN), Ben LEONG (MAS), Nicolas PAEZ (USA), Victor OSTERBY (DEN)

Selected Indonesian players:

70 - Jordan IRAWAN
-2 - Danny Masrin (13), Dede IDRIS (10*)

71 - Alexander VALENTINO (am)
-1 - George GANDRANATA (11*), Alfred RAJA (am, 9)

Masrin And Gandranata Dare To Dream At Bank BRI-JCB Indonesia Open

Jakarta, November 15 - Local talents George Gandranata and Danny Masrin hope to secure a home victory at the BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open which starts on Thursday, and raise the exposure of golf in the country.

Sis Apik Wijayanto, Director of BRI says: “Indonesia Open is one of the most prestigious national tournament in Asia and BRI is honoured to be the main sponsor for this tournament."

“We hope this national tournament will influence Indonesian golfers to play and show their best skill to win BRI-JCB Indonesia open next month. This will be a fantastic achievement in the area of golf development in our country.”

Gandranata, the leading golfer in Indonesia, the highly rated Masrin, Ian Andrew and Jordan Irawan are among 20 local hopefuls contending at the US$300,000 event which returns on the Asian Tour schedule after a one-year hiatus.

They will be joined by former Indonesia Open champion Gaganjeet Bhullar of India and new Asian Tour winners Pavit Tangkamolprasert of Thailand, Thitiphun Chuayprakong and Carlos Pigem of Spain at the Pondok Indah Golf Course.

India’s Jeev Milkha Singh, a two-time Asian Tour number one, Akinori Tani of Japan, Thai rising star Phachara Khongwatmai, Casey O’Toole of the United States and Siddikur Rahman of Bangladesh will also feature in the showpiece.

Gandranata, a winner on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) which is the secondary circuit of the Asian Tour, is determined to wear his heart on his sleeve as he aims to become the second Indonesian to win his National Open after Kasiadi’s triumph in 1989.

“I’m proud to play in the BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open. It is every golfers dream to play in their National Open and try to win it. It is different when you play in your country, there’s pressure but I like having the pressure. It motivates me to do better,” said Gandranata.

Gandranata, who won the silver and bronze medals in the team and individual category respectively at the 2011 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, has his eye on claiming the Golden Trophy which is awarded to the winner of the BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open.

“I play to win but it won’t be easy,” said the 30-year-old, who finished tied 15th in the 2014 edition. “I have high hopes in this event and like everybody, I want to win it for my country.

Golf is slowly growing but a local winner will increase the popularity of the sport by a few notches.

The 24-year-old Masrin hopes to use his experience of playing on the ADT to good use. He was among four local golfers to make the halfway cut at the Indonesian Masters in October which was a record in the event.
“The standard of golf in the country is growing. We have more local events now and the players are gaining experience by playing in Asian Tour events. The BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open will be another great addition for golfers to be exposed to an international golf tournament,” said Masrin.

“I’ve been playing well lately and I hope to continue the momentum. It gives me great pride to play in the Indonesia Open. It will be a challenging week with so many great Asian Tour players but I will focus on my own game and hopefully have a chance at the weekend,” he added.

Andrew, a regular on the ADT, believes the BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open is a great tournament for him to learn from the best golfers in Asia.

“I’ve learnt a lot playing on the ADT but it is an entirely different level when you play on the Asian Tour. It is challenging on the ADT so the experience will help me when I play in my National Open. I’m really looking forward to the experience this week,” said the 24-year-old.

The BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open is one of the finest golf championships in Asia where top stars such as Thaworn Wiratchant, Thongchai Jaidee and Padraig Harrington have won the tournament in the past.

Bhullar Ready To Challenge For Bank BRI-JCB Indonesia Open Title

Sentosa, Singapore, November 7 - An in-form Gaganjeet Bhullar of India will headline the BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open from November 17 to 20 with the aim of winning the event for a second time in his career.

The 28-year-old won the prestigious showpiece in 2013 for his fifth Asian Tour title but went through a title drought because of a wrist injury. He returned to his best form when he triumphed in Korea last month and will be the top contender in Indonesia.

Bhullar will challenge for the prestigious BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open title against a stellar line-up which includes new Asian Tour winner Pavit Tangkamolprasert of Thailand and veteran Singaporean Mardan Mamat at the US$300,000 event.

Asian Tour winners Siddikur Rahman of Bangladesh, Chapchai Nirat of Thailand, Himmat Rai of India and Richard T. Lee of Canada will also feature in the BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open.

A total of 20 local players, led by George Gandranata and Danny Masrin, will also aim to become the first Indonesian golfer after Kasiadi to win the BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open which is staged at the Pondok Indah Golf Course.

Bhullar has a strong affinity with Indonesia, the country where he won his first Asian Tour title in 2009 before going on to sweep five other titles. He was regarded as one of the rising stars in golf before his injury setback.

“It was very important for me to win. I lost my card in Europe and I was struggling and feeling low in life. It was hard and I felt lonely at times because some of my friends continued to play in Europe,” lamented Bhullar.

Like a true champion he bounced back in sensational style when he clinched the Shinhan Donghae Open title by one shot before going on to secure a fifth place finish at the Indonesian Masters in the following week.

“I’m from a sporting family so we have a moto to never say die. I gave it my all when I was playing in tournaments after the injury. At the end of the day, you have to believe in your hard work and I’m proud of myself and it is good to be back in the winners’ circle,” said Bhullar.

The BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open is one of the finest golf championships in Asia where top stars such as Thaworn Wiratchant, Thongchai Jaidee and Padraig Harrington have won the tournament in the past.

Bank BRI-JCB Indonesia Open Makes Welcome Return On Asian Tour

Jakarta, November 1 - The 2016 BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open will make its welcome return onto the Asian Tour Schedule after a one-year absence, officials announced today.

Title sponsored by Indonesia’s oldest bank, Bank BRI and global payments brand based in Japan, JCB, Indonesia’s oldest professional golf tournament will be played at Pondok Indah Golf Course from November 17 to 20, 2016.

The full-field Asian Tour event will offer a US$300,000 prize purse and much attention will be on the local golfers aiming to deliver the first Indonesian champion since 1989.

The late Kasiadi remains the only Indonesian golfer to win the event while the 2014 edition was won by three-time Major winner, Padraig Harrington who defeated Thailand’s Thanyakon Khrongpha by two shots.

Sis Apik Wijayanto, Director of Bank BRI said: “The Indonesian Open is one of the most prestigious national championships in Asia and Bank BRI is truly honored to have the opportunity to become the tournament’s title sponsor."

“We hope the return of our national championship will inspire Indonesian golfers to play their best and win the BANK BRI-JCB Indonesia Open title next month. It would be a fantastic achievement for the development of the game in our country.”

Left to right: Mr. Budi Kosasih, Operational Director of Pondok Indah Golf Course, Mr. Sis Apik Wijayanto, Director of BANK BRI, Mr. Murdaya Widyawimarta Po, Chairman of PGI, Mr. Koichiro Wada, Director of PT. JCB International Indonesia and Mr. Cho Minn Thant, Associate Director of Asian Tour

Mr. Koichiro Wada, Director of JCB International Indonesia said: “We are delighted and proud to be part of the Indonesia Open, which is the oldest golf tournament in the country."

“It is an exciting venture for JCB and we are looking forward to working together with the Asian Tour and Persatuan Golf Indonesia to make this prestigious tournament a huge success.”"
Mr. Murdaya Widyawimarta Po, President of Persatuan Golf Indonesia, the national golf association of Indonesia said: “On behalf of our association, I would like to thank Bank BRI and JCB for its outstanding support. Our national championship is a very important event and we are delighted that the BRI-JCB Indonesia Open will be staged on the Asian Tour this month."

“It is important for us to continue to stage the Indonesia Open as it creates the opportunity for Indonesian golfers, both professionals and amateurs, to compete against the best players from the Asian Tour.”

Cho Minn Thant, Associate Director of the Asian Tour, said, “We are delighted to welcome back the Asian Tour tournament sponsored by BRI after a one-year lapse as it is one of the most popular national Opens in Asia with a rich history."

“As we begin our countdown towards the championship, we are also confident the return of the best players from the Asian Tour will continue to excite and thrill the local galleries next month. On behalf of our players, I would also like to extend our deepest appreciation to Bank BRI for its title sponsorship."

“Earlier this season, the Asian Tour also welcomed back the national Opens of Singapore and Myanmar while the King’s Cup also made a return in Thailand. I believe this is a wonderful sign for the development and growth of professional golf in Asia.”

Budi Kosasih, Director Operational of Pondok Indah Golf Course said the club is looking forward to hosting the top players from the region and Indonesia for the Bank BRI-JCB Indonesia Open.

“It is a privilege for Pondok Indah to be selected to play host to the 2016 Bank BRI-JCB Indonesia Open. We will endeavour to prepare our championship course to its best condition so that we can identify a worthy champion of our national Open.”