Third time lucky for Udorn as he takes the title at Khon Kaen

Held at the par-72, 7,352-yard layout, the 45-year-old defeated amateur Kamalas Namuangruk in the second play-off hole. The Chiang Mai native fired a final round 64 to finish regular play tied at 12-under-par 276 with Bangkokian Kamalas, who shot a 70.

After both parred the par-4 18th hole, the experienced Udorn sank a three-yard birdie to seal the victory on the second play-off hole, his first title since winning the PGA Thailand Tour at the Blue Sapphire Golf and Resort in Kanchanaburi in 2014.

“I’m delighted to win this trophy. I was heart-broken after losing twice in the play-offs earlier this year. I started the round eight shots behind the leader but I knew if I shot eight birdies, I could win this,” Udorn said.

The win was redemption for Udorn, who lost the final of the All Thailand Tour event to Namchok Tantipokhakul at Rayong Green Valley Club in June and lost in a play-off to amateur Sarit Suwannarat at the next stop at the Burapa Golf and Resort Udorn in July. It was his second win at Khon Kaen Park – the first his maiden and only Asian Tour title at the 2010 King’s Cup. He collected Bt450,000 for the latest win.

A shot behind at lone third was Ratchapol Jantavara, who fired a bogey-free 67 for an 11-under 277, followed by overnight leader Thepbadin Amaranan, who carded a 73 for 278.

Former tennis star Paradorn Srichaphan stumbled to an 80 yesterday and had to settle for joint 53 in the 60-player field with a 10-over 298. Paradorn, who made his first cut in a professional golf tournament in this event, said he would now turn professional. He will join a rare breed who have played two professional sports.

Another former tennis pro, Aussie Scott Draper, a former Australian Open mixed doubles champion, plays on the professional golf tour in Australia.