Overnight leader Poom Saksansin yesterday secured his first professional title with a play-off victory over Pavit Tangkramolprasert at the 15th Singha Masters in Chiang Rai.
Poom Saksansin, right, with his trophy.
In his second professional start since turning pro last month, Poom defeated Pavit with a birdie on the first play-off hole on the par-five 18th at Santiburi Country Club. Former Thailand national player Poom earned a winner's cheque for 725,000 baht while Pavit, who made an eagle in the final hole to force the play-off, took home 427,500 baht.
Both Poom and Pavit were level at 16-under after 72 holes with Poom making a final-round 69 and Pavit signing for a 68. It was a great success for Poom, who share 40th in his professional debut at the King's Cup in Hua Hin last month. He also secured his Asian Tour card last week in Hua Hin.
Thailand-based Simon Yates of Scotland shot a 67 to tie for third with overnight leader Poosit Supupramai (70). Each took home 252,500 baht.
Chapchai Nirat (73) was 12-under to take fifth place.
Four-time winner Thammanoon Srirot closed with a 64 to share seventh on 10-under.
Boonchu Ruangkit posted a 72 to share eighth on nine-under with Thaworn Wiratchant, (71) while four-time winner Prayad Marsaeng stayed two strokes behind on seven-under-par after his 71.
Chiang Rai-born Porani Chutichai stormed to a five-stroke win in the women's event after posting a final 73 for a three-under-par 285. Mixing three birdies and four bogeys in the final round, Porani took home 70,000 baht. Goonlacha Paiboonpong (71) received 45,000 baht for finishing runner-up. Jaruporn Palakawong Na Ayutthaya claimed third spot on 292 after she closed with a 74.