The Final Day – And a dramatic finish

The wind has been much the same as yesterday and no less a test for the final round with early starters returning cards over par but relieved to have not succumbed too much to the particular querks of this course. The top six maintained a steady front nine, either one over or par and we wondered if the course would allow someone to make a move. Meesawat did so on the 10th but this was complimented by Tabuena who copied the birdie. It was head to head down the back nine and they shared bogeys at the 16th to arrive at the clubhouse tied on one over. As they tee’d off at the 18th, two good drives; Meesawat more to the right and Tabuena the left. Meesawat’s approach from 206 yards left the crowd amazed as it landed on the green 20ft short of the hole. How would Miguel answer with his 196 yard shot. In majestic style, leaving him just under 20 ft. Pressure on but they each took two puts so the play-off on the 18th began. Good shots again from the tee and then Tabuena put his approach at the front of the green leaving a challenging put. Meesawat had found the fairway bunker on the right. He caught it well but just caught the lip of the bunker at the front of the green. This was the turning point as it was an almost impossible stance and sadly took two to get out and close to the pin. Tabuena had two puts to win and left his first within a few inches to seal a dramatic victory. To win at home with his family watching was the perfect end to a hard fought four rounds but a well-deserved triumph. As well as the wonderful trophy he takes home a cheque for $108,000. Prom Meesawat had to settle for second place but had put on one of the best performances of consistent play over the tournament and he is maintaining his standing as a major force in Asian golf. Credit also to Guido Van Der Valk who also put in a great performance over the week to end on 5 over in third place and is one to keep an eye on for the future. All in all a great tournament on one of the most challenging courses in the region and the general consensus among the players was they look forward to playing it again.

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