Big Dolphin makes splash in Samui rain

The 31-year-old from Hua Hin picked up two birdies on the back nine, where he started, before generating four more from holes four to seven for a total seven under par 135 at the par71 layout.

“I’m very happy with my play today especially on par three holes where I was three under. We all know you have to hit the fairways on this course and that’s what I did today,” said the man nicknamed “Big Dolphin”, who had to play 22 holes yesterday, four postponed from the opening round due to heavy downpours.

“Actually I didn’t expect much this week since I haven’t hit well with my driver. But that’s made me even more focused on each shot. I keep telling myself to produce the best shots that I can,” added Prom, who is eyeing an end to a two year title drought dating back to the Yeangder Tournament Players Championships in Taiwan.

American Peterson also enjoyed a flying 65, highlighted by a superb eagle from 30 feet on the par three 18th, while Pigem from Spain put himself in the hunt for a maiden Asian Tour title with a solid 69.

Peterson, fifth on the Order of Merit last season, produced a season low round to charge into contention for a first Asian Tour victory. The lefthander has struggled to hit top form this season, with only one top20 to his name, but a talk with his coach last night on his putฌting technique did wonders for the amiable American.

“I had a nice chat with my coach last night about some putting stuff. Yesterday, I felt like I was banging my head against the wall as nothing went in. We had a nice chat about some things and the hole opened up. Hopefully we’ll have more of that this weekend. It made a huge difference,” said the American, who was sixth here last year.

Pigem, 25, was delighted to move into the title hunt, especially since he has suffered at Santiburi Samui where his best finish in three appearances is joint 38th.

“I know this course is very tough and if you miss a shot, it can cost you a lot. So I said let’s just play and if you miss a shot, don’t care about it as you have other opportunities for birdies,” said Pigem.

The leading trio completed their second but the suspension came with half of the field still out on the course. They will resume their second round today at 7am.

A stroke behind was Jazz Janewattananond who shot 67 for a total 136 and tied fourth along with Gunn Charoenchaikul, who was six under after 13 holes.

Wanich Petcharit, who resumed his postponed round in the morning to top the standings, shot 73 for a total four under par 138.