Choi Min-Chel powers to 64, tops Korea Open leaderboard; Prom in tie for 12th
>> CHEONAN: South Korea’s Choi MinChel took over the third round lead by powering ahead with a seven-underpar 64 to enjoy a two-shot advantage heading into the final round of the Kolon Korea Open Golf Championship yesterday.
The 29-year-old, who started the day six shots behind overnight leader Choi Ho-Sung, got the lead he deserved by firing eight birdies against a long bogey to take charge with his three-day total of 10-underpar 203 at the Woo Jeong Hills Country Club.
“I hope I can win tomorrow as that would be a perfect gift for my father who played a key role in my career,” said Choi. “He suffered a stroke many years ago and is now half-paralysed.
“I had three runner-up finishes and have yet to win on the main Korean Tour. As this is a co-sanctioned event with the Asian Tour and also part of the Open Qualifying Series, it would mean a lot to me to get the job done tomorrow. I just have to stay focus and not get too nervous.”
Choi Ho-Sung, who endeared himself to the crowd with his unorthodox swing, could not extend his lead. The swing, which worked to his advantage on the second day, let him down. He slipped to second place following a 72.
Scotland’s Simon Yates will be hoping to break the Korean dominance and become the first foreign player in seven years to win the open. Yates returned with a 66 to share third place with Lee Seung-Taek at the US$1,125,000 event.
Kevin Na of the United States also remains hopeful of spoiling the Korean party when he signed for a 70 to share eighth place with fellow countryman John Catlin as well as Joo Heung-Chol and Hwang Inn-Choon of South Korea.
Thailand’s Prom Meesawat posted his lowest score this week when he signed for a 67 to take a share of 12th place.