Pajaree wins Thai LPGA opener
Amateur Pajaree Anannarukarn successfully defended her crown in the Bt1 million Singha-SAT Toyota Championship after she fired an ending 65 for a six stroke win over Parinda Phokan at the Royal Hills Golf and Resort Spa in Nakhon Nayok yesterday.
The 17-year-old shot eight birdies including five straight ones from holes No 4 to No 8 and an eagle on the 11 th against three bogeys for a three day total 10 under-par 206. It was the second victory for the teenager who just lifted up the trophy in the Singha Masters in Chiang Rai 20 days ago.
“I was playing really well for two days especially my putts and approach shots. I came to this tournament hoping to hit three under everyday. Winning two tournaments in a month is beyond my expectation,” said the senior high-school student who will now have to focus on her education at the ASB International School.
“I will start revising my lessons next week to prepare for the final exam in May. I have to complete high-school so that I can put all my attention on golf,” said Pajaree who has a GPA of 3.60
Pajaree plans to turn pro in May when she becomes 18 and fly to the US around July to get ready for the LPGA Q-School first stage.
Parinda Phokan, with a final 68, came at second with a total four under-par-212 which earned her the top prize money of Bt142,500 as Pajaree is not eligible for it due to her amateur status.
Nanthikarn Raksachat, with a 71, followed at third with a 216 and took the runner-up money of Bt67,700.
The next stop of the Thai LPGA Tour will be at the Rancho Charnvee Resort and Country Club in Nakhon Ratchasima between May 24-26. A total of nine events are set for the 2017 Thai LPGA this year with the Masters event which offers the biggest prize money of Bt4 million being due in September at Panya Indra Golf Club in Bangkok.
