Taiwan's Lin Wen-tang battled through bad weather to lift the inaugural Asian Tour International title yesterday.
He posted his third win in three years on the Asian Tour thanks to a blistering eight-under 64 in the final round at the Pattana Golf and Sports Resort.
He produced a four-day winning total of 23-under 265 for a five stroke win over South Korean teenager Noh Seung-yul, who claimed second place after a 71. Lin walked away with the top prize of US$47,550 and rises to 11th on the Asian Tour's Order of Merit.
PHOTO: AFP
CONFIDENT
"Last night I told my wife that I will win it but she said not to be over confident. Now I can't wait to call her," Lin said.
Malaysia's Ben Leong shot a last-round 67 to earn his first top 10 finish, coming joint third alongside Singapore's Mardan Mamat, who carded a 68. Joining them in third spot was Australia's Marcus Both, who eagled the last hole, American Han Lee (67) and Japan's Taichiro Kiyota (64).
CHARGING RUN
Lin made a charging run from the start with a birdie at the first, followed by an eagle at the par-five second. He remained solid throughout, firing five more birdies, helping him to eight under and three in front of Noh after 15 holes before lightning saw play suspended.
After a two-hour delay, Noh returned with a double bogey on the 16th and Lin breezed to his third success.
BREAKTHROUGH
Lin enjoyed his breakthrough win at the 2006 Taiwan Open and followed up with a victory at last year's Brunei Open.
"Noh is a great player and was steady throughout the week. Although he rushed his shots after returning back to complete the round, I know he has a lot of talent and it was nice to play alongside him," Lin said.
Noh, who was overnight joint leader, remained pleased with his result despite his late stumble.
"I'm happy with my performance this week. I three-putted upon my return after the suspension as I was a bit quick to hole that putt. But overall it has been a great experience for me," he said.
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