Prom and Arnond one off pace in Manila

Prom and Arnond one off pace in Manila

Manila: Thailand's Prom Meesawat and Arnond Vongvanij shared third place on matching 65s after the first round of the Manila Masters yesterday.

The Thai duo were one shot behind Korean-American Micah Lauren Shin and Australia's Scott Barr who sat atop the leaderboard after both carded an opening eight-under 64 at the Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club.

Another Thai Chanachok Dejpiratanamongkol, who hit a hole-in-one at the par-three 13th hole, was tied for fifth together with defending champion SSP Chawrasia of India, Canada's Richard T Lee and Philippines' Justin Quiban after he returned with a 66.

Natipong Srithong and Phachara Khongwatmai were in a group of 10 players tied for ninth on five-under 67.

"It's always good to start off with a low round," said Prom whose lowest round at the tournament was a 62 recorded during the final round last year.

"I know I have a good track record here but the most important thing for me this week is to enjoy the game and not think too much about winning yet as that will create unnecessary pressure," added the Thai, who is searching for his first Asian Tour win since 2014.

Arnond added, "The weather made play really difficult today with the rain coming down on and off. The ball was wet and for me, I have my prescription glasses with me and I had to take them off frequently to wipe them as they fog up very often.

"It has been a grind and I'm just happy I got to finish my round today with a good score."

An Asian Tour Qualifying School graduate, Shin overcame the rainy conditions in the afternoon by returning with a bogey-free card which was highlighted by eight birdies.

"It was not really tough to be playing under the rain. It was just annoying and uncomfortable as we were getting all wet," said Shin. "But result wise, it was good. The course is not playing too long but the rain has made the greens softer."

Barr, who is searching for his first Asian Tour win, also enjoyed an encouraging start. The Australian lost his Tour card last season but having seen a revival in form recently, he is hopeful of doing well at the US$1 million event, which is also the richest golf tournament in the Philippines.

"I played great and I putted really well," said Barr. "I managed to put the ball in play today and that was the most important objective."

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