Bangkok, Thailand: A new batch of talented young Thais will be aiming to make a name for themselves in the 10th anniversary edition of the Faldo Series Thailand Championship.
To be played for the first time at Pattaya’s Phoenix Gold Golf and Country Club, the event will feature a handful of the Kingdom’s finest golfing prospects.
Among the boys, Thai officials will be looking to Atiruj Winaicharoenchai and Nattaphol Meebangyang to stamp their authority.
Meanwhile, Onkanok Soisuwan and Rina Tatematsu are tipped to challenge for top honours in the girls’ division.
Six-time Major champion Sir Nick Faldo, Britain’s most successful golfer, said: “Over the past decade, Thailand has consistently produced outstanding young male and female players who have gone on to achieve success among the ranks of the professionals.
“I’m delighted the Faldo Series Thailand Championship continues to act as an important event on the local golfing calendar.
“I’m excited also to see the emergence of the latest crop of Thai golfers. I’m certain there will be some stars of the future among them.”
Given the success of Thai players, it’s a little surprising that the country has had just two winners at the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final.
In the inaugural year of 2007, Nakarin Ratanakul was crowned overall champion while Thidapa Suwannapura was the leading lady in 2010. Thidapa has subsequently gone on to win on the Ladies European Tour and play on the LPGA Tour in America.
Speaking on behalf of the Thai Students Golf Union [TSGU], who oversee the running of the Faldo Series Thailand Championship, Seksan Suwannapura said: “I would like to thank Sir Nick and his team for what they have done for young golfers in Thailand and around Asia these past 10 years.”