Nakhon Ratchasima: Unheralded Chanachok Dejpiratanamongkol moved a step closer to winning his maiden professional title when he took a three-shot lead into the final round of the 3.5-million-baht Boonchu Ruangkit Championship yesterday.
The 22-year-old former Thai national player made a seven-under-par 64 to lead by three shots on 14-under 199 after the third round of the season-ending event on the All Thailand Golf Tour and the Asian Development Tour.
Chanachok, who started the round four strokes behind the leader, made an eagle, six birdies and one bogey at the par-71 Charnvee Resort and Country Club.
Despite taking a three-shot lead into today's final round, Chanachok could not feel comfortable because his closest rivals are world No.52 Thongchai Jaidee (70) and Rattanon Wannasrichan (67). Thongchai and Rattanon were tied on 202.
One stroke further back on 203 were three-time European Tour winner Kiradech Aphibarnrat (69) and Tirawat Kaewsiribandit (66).
Chanachok, whose best results this year are three top-10 finishes, said that his impressive form was mainly due to his driver and putter. He also managed to save par from long distance on a few holes.
"I drove the ball and putted quite well," said the golfer, who was tied for 35th here last year.
"I got lots of birdies because my putting was so hot today."
The Tak-born golfer added that the turning point was the fifth hole where he chipped in a 15-foot eagle. Despite bogeying the 13th, he fought back with four birdies on the last five holes.
"I feel like it was my day. Everything clicked together," he said.
"It was easier than the first two days because the wind was not too strong."
Asked about today's final round, he said he would try to stick to the same game plan and be as relaxed as he could.
The 47-year-old Thongchai, who is desperate to win here to move back into the top 50 in the world, said it was a tough round due to the pin placements and changes in wind direction.
Coupled with his fatigue, he was unable to play as he wanted, he said.
The Thai No.1, who was one shot behind winner Phachara Khongwatmai last year, said he thought he might be able to make up three shots on the leader during the final round.
"There are 18 holes to play. I will give my all tomorrow," Thongchai said.
Udorn Duangdecha, who is likely to finish the year as the money winner on the Thailand Golf Tour, carded a 70 for a three-round total of 208, the same as Prom Meesawat (71) and Thepbadin Amaranan (71).
Teenage Phachara had a 73 to settle for a tie for 38th on 211, while inexperience cost overnight leader Jaturon Duangphaichoom, who had a poor round of 81.
Jaturon dropped to 212 for a share of 45th place.