Rayong: Former national player Kamalas Namuangrak shot an impressive 6-under 67 to take a one-stroke lead at the end of the first round of the 3.45-million-baht Thailand Mixed at St Andrews 2000 in Rayong yesterday.
The 30-year-old from Bangkok almost finished the day without a bogey by recording seven birdies before finally dropping a shot on the ninth hole.
Despite that fumble, he has a one-stroke lead over Rattanon Wannasrichan, Amarin Kraivixien and Tawan Phongphun at the par-73 course, which measures 7,302 yards off the men's tee.
"I was putting incredibly well, made 17 putts on 14 greens. To play on this course, it is crucial to hit in the middle of the fairways as any deviation would lead to ball landing in the woods or water hazards," said Kamalas, who was a member of the Thailand's SEA Games national team in 2017.
"Starting with a score of 67 was beyond my expectations and I hope to continue playing under par each round," he added.
Former Thailand Open champion Rattanon was the only player among the top three with an unblemished record, carding three birdies on the front nine and two on the back.
"If you hit the fairways on this course, things will be pretty much comfortable, and you can choose where to aim your shots," said the Chanthaburi-based player.
Amarin, who recently earned his maiden win on the Thai PGA Tour, had seven birdies against two bogeys.
"I haven't set any particular position to finish this week as setting such a goal won't help me play better. I'm determined to execute every shot as best as I can," he said.