Nattawat grabs maiden ADT victory

PETALING JAYA: Nattawat Suvajanakorn will cherish his maiden Asian Development Tour (ADT) win as a special achievement.

The 21-year-old Thai staved off strong challenges from two of Malaysia’s finest golfers – Danny Chia (pic) and R. Nachimuthu – to claim the PGM Darulaman Championship in Jitra, Kedah, yesterday.

Nattawat, who entered the final round one shot behind China’s Liu Yan-wei, was in his element as he signed for a flawless seven-under 65 for a 16-under 272 total to win by three strokes at the Darulaman Golf and Country Club.

Nattawat made a quick charge with birdies in his opening two holes before going on to extend his advantage with further birdies on the fifth and eighth.

Although Danny and Nachimuthu were hot on his heels after the turn, Nattawat kept his nerves in check and continued to assert himself by gaining three more strokes from the 11th, 15th and 17th on his way to securing a well-deserved win.

“There was a lot of pressure on me today,” said Nattawat, who had two top-five finishes prior to the triumph.

“Danny and Nachimuthu are really good players and I had to stay very focused. I told myself I could not afford to drop any shots as they can easily overtake me.

“I concentrated really hard and I’m glad I won and can relax now. This victory means a lot to me as it is my first win as a professional,” added Nattawat.

Former national No. 1 Danny’s superb 66 earned him a joint second place on 13-under 275 with fellow veteran R. Nachimuthu, who registered a 68.

Yan-wei, who was bidding to become the first Chinese winner on the ADT, could only manage a 70 to finish in sole fourth spot.