Chanat Sakulpolphaisan is the latest first-time winner on the ADT.
Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia:
Chanat Sakulpolphaisan became the 19th first-time Asian Development Tour (ADT) winner this season when he triumphed at the PGM Nilai Springs Championship.
The 25-year-old Thai shot a closing four-under-par 67 to win the RM200,000 (about US$50,000) event with a score of 18-under 266 at the Nilai Springs Golf and Country Club.
Jordan Sherratt of Australia finished two shots back as he settled for his second runner-up result this year following a 66.
Malcolm Kokocinski of Sweden closed with a 69 to end his campaign in third position, five shots from the winner.
Chanat, who held the overnight lead, was flawless in a round of four birdies as he peppered the flags for close range birdies. His longest birdie putt of the day was a 15-footer on the 14th hole.
The victory was a reward for the in-form Thai, who had secured two straight top-10 results before the PGM Nilai Springs Championship.
“It feels awesome to win. I felt a bit nervous but I stayed focus. This is a very big win for me,” said Chanat, who played collegiate golf in Mississippi before turning professional last year.
Chanat believes the win will be a confidence booster as he aims to earn an Asian Tour card through Qualifying School next year. He missed the grade this year but has improved by gaining valuable experience on the ADT.
“Like many professionals, I dream of winning. Before turning professional, I watched so many Thai players including
Kiradech Aphibarnrat win. I hope I can have a successful career like him in the future,” said Chanat.
