Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand: Itthipat Burantanyarat rediscovered his winning thanks to a closing seven-under-par 64 at the ฿4 million (about US$121,700) Boonchu Ruangkit Championship.
The 25-year-old Thai broke his three-year title drought on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) by staying focused on a pressure-filled final day. He posted a winning total of 26-under-par 258 in the fifth edition of the event hosted by Thai golfing legend Boonchu Ruangkit.
As well as receiving a cheque for US$21,883, Itthipat was awarded 10 Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points.
American Johannes Veerman made a final charge with a 63, to share second place on 260 with England’s Steve Lewton, who ended his campaign with a 66 at the Rancho Charnvee Resort and Country Club.
Starting the round with a one-shot deficit, Itthipat grabbed birdies on the third, fifth and seventh to make the turn in 32. He added another birdie on 10 before dropping his first shot of the day on 11.
Itthipat said: “On hole 11 I hit my tee shot it in the water and made bogey which made me a little nervous with everyone catching up. But I was still able to control my emotions and rely on my short game. I made three birdies in a row from there which really gave me confidence going into the last hole.”
Itthipat claimed his maiden ADT victory in 2015 in the Philippines and won again the year after in Singapore.
“I am very happy to be finally back to winning on the ADT – and winning on a home course and in a tournament under Boonchu’s name. I have wanted to win this tournament so badly. I finally did it,” added Itthipat, who secured his Asian Tour card at this month’s Qualifying School.