Thai duo Thongchai and Kiradech nish on even-par

THE Thai duo of Thongchai Jaidee and Kiradech Aphibarnrat took different routes to the same score, shooting even-par 72 in the opening round at the US Masters.

Both players were satisfied with their score in strong winds at Augusta National on a day when many players had their hopes of a Green Jacket blown away.

“Very happy with even par. Very good round for me,” Thongchai said, adding that he was most pleased with avoiding any three putts on the demanding greens which were made even more difficult by the whipping winds.

“I had a lot of up-and-downs (to save par) and on the back nine missed three or four good birdie chances.”

Thongchai, 46, made a sizzling start to his fifth Masters, picking up two birdies in the first three holes.

Kiradech, on the other hand, started poorly, running up four front-nine bogeys to make the turn at four-over as nerves got the better of him.

But the young Thai settled down, reeling off a string of pars before an eagle at the par-five 13th, where he used his utility club to rifle his second shot to within 20 feet of the cup, gave him a jolt of confidence.

Subsequent birdies at 15 and 17 brought Kiradech back to even par.

“The way I started I was just too nervous,” said the 26-year-old from Bangkok, who had trouble adjusting to the pace of the greens.

“After I three-putted (the eighth hole) I kept thinking that it’s not my week again. The eagle on 13 was a big key turn,” he said. “And I got a lot of confidence back after I chipped in (from 15 yards) on 15 as well.

“So overall, a little bit struggling beginning, but good finish at the end. Even par is a good start.” — Reuters