Miyazato magic rules the day in Thailand

PATTAYA: Japan’s Ai Miyazato fired a blistering seven-under 65 to take a one-stroke lead in a gripping third round of the Us$1.5mil Honda LPGA Thailand tournament yesterday.

Miyazato is 14-under for the event, but hot on her heels is defending champion and world number one Tseng Yani from Taiwan who also shot a fine 65.

A further shot behind is second round leader Australia’s Karrie Webb, who had to settle for a 71 on Saturday, and Korean Shin Jiyai who fired a 68.

Another Korean, Amy Yang is in fifth place after a 68, with world number two Suzann Pettersen from Norway another shot back.

Much cooler weather than the previous two days at the Siam Country Club Pattaya Old Course brought out the best in Miyazato, who sank eight birdies against one bogey.

“I enjoyed the cooler conditions,” she said. “The previous night’s rain also made the greens more receptive.”

Miyazato, who won the tournament two years ago, was brilliant around the greens and chipped in three times.

“My short game is in good shape, especially my putting,” she said. “And my chipping was pretty good too.”

Miyazato, who was in the same group as Tseng Yani, was roared on by a large gallery of Japanese fans who also gave generous applause to the Taiwanese star. — AFP