Thongchai eyes another memorable outing at familiar course

THE Saujana Golf and Country Club has been a good hunting ground for veteran Thai golfer Thongchai Jaidee (pic).

And he is hoping that his familiarity with the course will land him the Maybank Championship title.

He won back-to-back Malaysian Open titles in 2004 and 2005 at the same course.

“I have won twice here in 2004 and 2005 which was very important for my career. That’s why I love this golf course.

“My life changed from here. On the last day in 2004, I made a holein-one on the 16th hole during the final round and won by two shots,” he said.

“One shot changed my life. It made me who I am today. That’s why I love coming back to Malaysia. It’s like my second home and I have a lot of friends and fans’ support here,” he added.

Thongchai is regarded as one of Asia’s greatest players, thanks to an unprecedented three Order of Merit crowns in 2001, 2004 and 2009. He also has 19 victories to date.

After a round yesterday, the Thai said that there are only a few changes at the course since he last played here.

“A few holes changed, like number six and seven. The condition is great. They’ve made changes to all the greens and the course is also longer now, it’s going to be difficult this week. The layout is almost the same but the length is longer,” he said.

The Thai also said that it is an open field and that Asian golfers have a good chance at winning as well.

“A very consistent player will do well.

“You need to hit the fairways, don’t really need to be long. I think there’s a good chance for the Asian Tour players to win here,” he added.