SSP Chawrasia leads a strong Indian presence in Myanmar

February 02, 2016: India has a strong presence of golfers at this week’s Myanmar Open. SSP Chawrasia leads a strong contingent that includes Gaganjeet Bhullar, Shiv Kapur, Himmat Rai, Rashid Khan, Chiragh Kumar and Arjun Atwal. The USD 750,000 Myanmar Open is co-sanctioned by the Asian and Japan Tours and is one of the richest prizes for sport in Myanmar.

Chawrasia was in good form in the recently held Eurasia Cup but suffered a let down in Singapore when he slipped to a 76. “This is my first visit to Myanmar and I am liking it. The golf course is nice. It is picturesque and the weather is somewhat warm, but not unbearable because it is not humid like Singapore last week. The mornings and evening are very pleasant,” said a very pleased Chawrasia.

“Last week I was somewhat patchy. I gave away a lot in a couple of holes, including a triple. But I was happy with my final nine on the last day,” admitted Chawrasia.

The Olympics are also on Chawrasia’s mind as the battle intensifies for a spot on the flight to Rio. “One of my goals this year is to represent India at the Olympics,” he said.

Himmat Rai has been enjoying a good run of success in Asia too. Top 5 finishes in Vietnam and Philippines last year have filled Rai with renewed hope. A T23 finish in Singapore last week was a reaffirmation of his form, after he was the highest placed Indian golfer in the Singapore Open.

“In 2014, I lost my card and had to work my way back through the Q-School. But I worked hard, played some ADT events, too. Now things are looking better,” said Himmat, who was T13 in 2013, when he last made a trip to Myanmar.

Gangjee is coming off a disappointing week in Singapore and will look to make amends with a good showing in Myanmar. “That’s been happening a few times of late. But I feel my game is coming around and I have been close quite a few times, but sooner than later my time will come. I have stay focused,” said Gangjee, who had a top-10 at Myanmar in 2013.

Korea’s K.T Kim is ready to thrill the local galleries during his maiden visit to Myanmar when the Leopalace21 Myanmar Open makes its much anticipated start at the Royal Mingalardon Country Club on Thursday.

Kim, who enjoyed a phenomenal season on the Japan, winning five times en route to topping the JGTO money list, believes he is well rested and ready to challenge for the title after uncharacteristically missing the weekend cut in Singapore last week.

“I’ve been working hard on my putting as I didn’t putt well in Singapore. But I had a good rest and I’m ready to play well again.

“I’ve heard so much wonderful things about this country and I’m happy I’m here now. I’m determined to put up a strong performance and contend for the title this week,” said Kim.

Compatriot Younghan Song is looking to extend his winning run at the Leopalace21 Myanmar Open after a marathon week in Singapore where he defeated world number one Jordan Spieth by one shot.

“Beating Jordan was like a dream come true. But it’s a new week now and my focus will be to do well again.

“I’m in very good form and I hope it continues that way,” said Song.