Thongchai and Kiradech target victory at True Thailand Classic
Thai home heroes Thongchai Jaidee and Kiradech Aphibarnrat hope to be the pride of their nation by winning the True Thailand Classic presented by Chang this week.
Both players have an old score to settle in the US$1.75 million tournament sanctioned by the Asian Tour and European Tour at Black Mountain Golf Club from March 10-13 after coming close to winning the inaugural edition some 12 months ago.
Thongchai, the only golfer to win three Asian Tour Order of Merit titles, and 2013 Asian Tour No.1 Kiradech finished tied second and equal fourth respectively as they watched Australian Andrew Dodt hoist the new trophy.
The 46-year-old Thongchai, currently ranked 34th in the world, said he will be pushing hard to win at Black Mountain.
“It’s great that we’ll be having the Thailand Classic for the second year and I’m very excited to play in the tournament again. I’ve got a house next to the ninth green and I’ll enjoy strong support from my home fans for sure,” said Thongchai, who won once on the European Tour last season.
“Golf in Thailand is growing and we are now seeing a new generation of golfers emerging on the Asian Tour, such as Danthai Boonma, Natipong Srithong and Thitiphun Chuayprakong. With tournaments such as this in Thailand, it will help the game grow and I am confident we will see many more new stars coming up. I’m very happy to represent the Thai people in the Thailand Classic.”
World No.45 Kiradech said: “I’m looking forward to playing in the Thailand Classic. Last year’s tournament was a great success and I am keen to put on another strong challenge. I will try my best to win my first Asian Tour and European Tour event in Thailand. It would be very special if I can achieve this goal.
“The tournament has been a great addition on the Asian Tour schedule and it will support the development of golf in Thailand and Asia. As you can see these days, many young Thai players have emerged and it will not be a surprise if one of our players wins the Thailand Classic.”