Ashley won’t burn out
Top Malaysian strikes balance between golf and studies
HOKOTA (Japan): It’s time to hit the books again for budding golfer Ashley Lau after she unexpectedly emerged as the best Malaysian finisher in this year’s Women’s Amateur Asia Pacific Championship.
The 18-year-old from Bintulu was on fire in the final round yesterday when she carded a sparkling six-under 66 to push her to a top-12 finish at The Royal Golf Club.
Ashley rounded off her stunning day with three birdies on the final three holes to finish with a four-day total of six-over 294 to tie for a share of 12th spot.
Her final round was the lowest posted by a Malaysian golfer.
Ashley said she had nothing to lose and enjoyed her final round.
“I just went out there and played the best I could,” said Ashley.
“I didn’t hit well in the third round (she had a six-over 78), so I went to the range and figured out my swing.
“Today I got to give credit to my putting. The pins were tucked in tough positions and I just put it at the right place and gave myself a good chance at birdies.
“The weather was also perfect today. It was chilly in the morning but it warmed up later,” said Ashley, who is flying back to the United States today.
“I have to sit for my exams the day after I arrive (on Wednesday). It will be tiring because of the journey but I think I can cope with it.
“It’s learning how to manage yourself as you are kept busy with studies and playing collegiate golf at the same time,” said the University of Michigan first-year student, who in fact brought her books along to do last-minute revisions.
Fellow Malaysian golfer Natasha Andrea Oon tied for 27th spot on 10-over 298 after a two-over 74 in her final round yesterday.
Liyana Durisic, the third Malaysian playing through the weekend, carded a three-over 75 to tie for 46th spot with a total of 20-over 308.