Kuala Lumpur, Feb 28: In an impressive display of skill and determination, defending champion Danny Chia took the early lead at the Tun Ahmad Sarji Trophy, opening with a stellar five-under 67.
At 52, Chia demonstrated that age is just a number, setting the pace for the competition at the picturesque Bunga Raya course at Saujana.
Chia’s closest competitor, Syahiran Syakir, is hot on his heels, just one stroke behind. Galven Green, who had a notable last season, is also in the mix, sitting just two strokes off the lead.
The competition is tight, with Sukree Othman and Fakhrul Akmal both carding one-under 71s to share the fourth spot.
Reflecting on his performance, Chia expressed satisfaction, particularly with his wedge play.
Starting on the back nine, he was one-under at the turn, adding birdies on the 3rd and 5th, and finishing strong with birdies on his last two holes.
“I had a few lucky breaks out there and five under after the first round … I’ll take it anytime,” Chia remarked.
Syahiran, despite a bogey finish in his last two holes, remained optimistic about his chances, attributing his performance to his familiarity and affection for the course.
“I played on this course in Sunday’s pro-am and had a practice round yesterday. Yes, I do like this course and hopefully I’ll be in contention on Thursday,” he said.
The tournament also saw participation from Toyota Tour 2023 Order of Merit winner, Ervin Chang, who carded a one-over 73 after a rushed return from competing in Oman.
Khavish Varadan, another notable Malaysian talent, finished the day with a two-over 74, sharing the 21st position.
The event, which marks the opening of the Toyota Tour, organized by Professional Golf Malaysia and delivered by MST Golf, promises more exciting rounds to come.
In the women’s championship, Geraldine Wong leads with a one-under 71, closely followed by Ainil Abu Bakar.
The defending champion, Aretha Pan, along with HY Bang and Jocelyn Chee, is tied for third, facing challenging conditions on the course.
“It was tough out there,” Wong and Pan concurred, highlighting the long play and inconsistent greens as factors in the day’s play.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on these skilled golfers as they navigate the challenges of the Bunga Raya course, each aiming to clinch the coveted title.
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