Kusuma claims first win on Thai LPGA Tour

Kusuma Meechai claimed her first win on Singha Thai LPGA Tour during the seventh tournament of 11th current season. The tournament, held at Black Mountain Golf Club in Hua Hin from 24-26 July, was a 54-hole stroke-play event comprising a field of 83 players and total prize money of 1 million baht.

The 24-year-old from Prachinburi performed her best in the final round, returning a 4 under 68 from an up and down round. She started with a birdie on Hole 1 and followed with an eagle on the second hole, but then lost 2 shots with bogies on holes 3 and 6. She responded with 3 more birdies on holes 7, 11, 13, drop a shot on the 15th before gaining a final birdie on the 17th. Kusuma finished with a 3-round total score of 9 under par 207 and claimed the first win on the Thai LPGA Tour after turning professional 7 years ago.

“I hit 10 fairways and 14 greens with 28 putts today. The round was very good. I made birdie on the first hole. My putter was very good. 9 under is such good outcome. I have tried many years but could be only runner up. But I can make it here.” Kusuma said.

The first runner-up was Arpichaya Yubol – last year winner at this course, who finished with a 7-under 209. She was followed by Chonlada Chayanun from Nakhon Ratchasima and Ploychompoo Wilairungrueng, both with total scores of 6-under 210. Ploychompoo also claimed ‘Best of The Day’ in round.

The best amateur performance came from Chayanit Wangmahaporn, a student from Iowa in the USA, with total score of 4-under 212, ranked no.6.

“The course is long and challenge. It was fun here to play on this course with Thai LPGA friends. The weather was very good today. My score is fine. But I need to work out more. I will go for the next match at Watermill, then I plan to qualify for the Korean LPGA Tour.” Chayanit revealed.

The ‘Longest Drive’ award went to Wassawan Sangka­pong, a 22-year-old amateur and a student from North Carolina, USA, while the ‘Hottest Putter’ title went to Sitanun Jonglikit, an 18-year-old amateur from Surat Thani.

(Source: Thailpga.com)