Ammarin tops juniors for place in Worlds

The tournament, conducted by the Thailand Golf Association at Kanchanaburi’s Blue Sapphire Golf & Resort course, served as a selection event for the world’s top-flight amateur competition – a stepping stone for top-class golfers including Tiger Woods.

Ammarin, Kwanchai Thongtawee and Issara Kathawanich finished tied first on a four-day total of 289, meaning a play-off was required to pick the two golfers who would make the squad. Issara went out in the first extra hole with a bogey, leaving Ammarin and Kwanchai to duel for the title safe in the knowledge that they had already secured spots in the team.

Kwanchai had to settle for a par on the second play-off hole after hitting his tee shot into the rough, while Ammarin produced a marvellous approach that dropped just three feet from the hole then made no mistake by tapping in for a birdie.

Wad Phaewchimplee, Panitta Eusabai and Nitchada Sadtasuk sewed up the three World Junior berths available in the girls A Class division.

An extra hole was also needed to decide the winner in the boys Class B category after Eakthamrong Luenganurak and Pachara Kongwatmai found themselves tied at 294, with the former eventually snatching victory. The two also qualified for the world championships.

Pacharee Anantnaruekhan and Pimnipha Panthong clinched their places in the girl’s Class B division.

Phuwit Anusuebsai won the boys Class C title in emphatic fashion, finishing eight shots clear of Aekparit Whu, who also made the team. Paphangkorn Tawatthanakit’s win in the girls Class C event was equally impressive after she ended up seven strokes ahead of closest rival Pornpawee Thamwichai.

Pasin Vichitcharoenpaisan and Wanchai Luangnitikul booked spots in the boys Class D, while Anyamanee Wongarun and Sitanant Jonglikit took the berths in the girls Class D category.