KUALA LUMPUR: Mirabel Ting Ern Hui and Maisarah Hezri of Malaysia excelled in the first round by finishing day one in the top three in the Girl’s 13-14 category at the 13th AmBank SportExcel International Junior Golf Championship 2018 at Glenmarie Golf and Country Club yesterday.
“Today was not that bad but I am happy with my short game and with my approach shots. I just want to play my game tomorrow. I plan to go for my shots but I will not be too aggressive. I would like to thank my mom and dad for supporting me and following me around the course these past two days. I also want to wish all the other players all the best,” said Maisarah.
“My game was not that good as I had a bunch of bogeys on the last few holes. I am happy with my short game especially my putting which really helped a lot. Some of my approach shots came off well too. Personally, I am hoping to win the overall championship and the one-year scholarship award from Hills Golf Academy, Australia. However, I will try not to put too much pressure on myself and just play my own game,” expressed Mirabel, who is from Sarawak.
Yuttana Nakjang of Thailand, teed-off the tournament with a round of 68 to finish top under the Boy’s 15-18 category in the opening day yesterday.
“I was feeling really good today. My driving and putting were good so I was quite happy with my game. I plan to concentrate on one shot at a time and hope to do well tomorrow.
“This is my first time in Malaysia and participating in this tournament. I really like it here and the course is beautiful and lovely to play on,” said an ecstatic Yuttana upon completing his day one on a high.
In the Girl’s 15-18 category, Zhang Yue from China carded a 69 to emerged top in the category, while Winnie Ng is the highest placed Malaysian at fourth place.
Meanwhile, junior golfers from Indonesia emerged as leaders for Boy’s 13-14 category, while Boy’s and Girl’s 10-12 category will continue this morning due to weather condition.
The three-day tournament features 62 junior golfers from Malaysia and 86 international players from Thailand, India, China, Chinese Taipei, South Korea, Australia and Indonesia.
The best players from the Blue Tee (Boys’ 13-14 and 15-18 age-group category) and White Tee (Girls’ 13-14 and 15-18 age-group category) will vie for the Tan Sri Azman Hashim Challenge Trophies. – Bernama
In the best team category, the winners will be presented with the Tunku Imran Challenge Trophy.
Players also have the opportunity to win five golf scholarships offered by the renowned Hills Golf Academy. One player will be offered a one-year scholarship while the other four will get one-month scholarships. – Bernama
