Thai duo share lead at Singapore Open
Three-time winner Scott still in title mix as storm continues to cause havoc at Singapore Open
>> SINGAPORE: Thailand’s Tirawat Kaewsiribandit and Phachara Khongwatmai braved the heavy rains by snatching the third-round clubhouse lead at the weather-hit SMBC Singapore Open yesterday.
Close to 3.30 hours of play was lost due to lightning activities and thunderstorms in the afternoon.
When play finally got underway again at 5.30pm, it was the 27-yearold Tirawat, who stormed to the top by returning to fire two birdies in his remaining three holes for a fiveunder-par 66.
Phachara also had a closing birdie to thank for lifting him to the top of the leaderboard after he posted a 67 for a three-day total of 205 at the Sentosa Golf Club.
Australia’s Adam Scott, a three-time Singapore Open winner, could overtake the Thai duo when he resumes his third round at 7.30am today.
The world No.7, together with second-round leader Seungsu Han of the US, is at eight-under-par through 13 holes.
Singapore’s Quincy Quek remained in contention to become the first Singaporean to win his national Open as he is within two shots of the leaders at the US$1 million event sanctioned by the Asian Tour and Japan Golf Tour Organisation.
Quek, together with Philippines’ Juvic Pagunsan is at six-under with four holes to play and is among the 32 players who have yet to complete their third round.
Tirawat said: “It was a really nice birdie on the last. I am very happy with how I finished. It wasn’t easy out there, especially with the rain.
“I was just relaxing with my friends in the clubhouse during the rain delay. I came out again to play, feeling confident after the suspension. I managed to keep to my game plan. I didn’t expect much because I only got in to the tournament on Thursday. I was really lucky. I will continue to stick to my game plan tomorrow and not think too much.”
Phachara said: “I’m glad I managed to finish the round as that would give me some extra rest for tomorrow. It was pretty tough out there with the rain but I’m happy to sink that last birdie to bring me to the top.
“I don’t want to think too far ahead because anything can happen on this golf course. I just want to stay in the present and stick to my game plan. If I get distracted, I’ll feel very nervous and things will not go my way.”