Thailand’s Chawalit Plaphol put himself in prime position to end a five-year title drought after grabbing the third round lead at the Queen’s Cup yesterday.
The 36-year-old battled to a three-under-par 68 on another tough scoring day at the Santiburi Samui Country Club to lead by one stroke from compatriot Somkiat Srisanga (69) and Japan’s Daisuke Maruyama (71) in the US$300,000 Asian Tour event.
Australia’s Gavin Flint returned a 69 to lie two back, while joint overnight leader Jbe Kruger of South Africa slipped three off the pace after a 73 alongside Prayad Marksaeng of Thailand, who shot a 70.
Photo: AFP
The smooth-swinging Chawalit, who leads on eight-under-par 205, last won a title in 2006 at the Bangkok Airways Open but is enjoying his run at the Queen’s Cup.
“The weather conditions made it tough,” said Chawalit, who shot five birdies against two bogeys. “You have to plan well. I hit low shots and it was tough. You have to be careful especially on this course and in this weather, anything can happen tomorrow.”
The lead changed hands several times during a topsy-turvy day caused by blustery winds and heavy rain, which forced a suspension of play for 45 minutes in the afternoon.
Chawalit, a two-time Asian Tour winner said victory will depend on how well he drives during the final day.
“If I can continue to drive it well, I can win it. I know this course well, know the layout, know where to go and know the greens. It’s our home event and we want to win the tournament for the Queen and keep the trophy in Thailand,” Chawalit said.
After two dismal seasons, the 37-year-old Somkiat surged into contention for what would be his first Asian Tour victory.
His cause has been helped by the most unlikeliest of allies in countryman Prom Meesawat’s wife, Supichaya, who has stepped in to caddy for him this week after his usual choice was taken ill.
Six birdies on the card, including one on 18 where he nearly chipped in for eagle, saw him end the day on Chawalit’s heels.
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