Resilient Choi vaults into share of third position in first round of Mizuno Classic
South Korean Na Yeon Choi looked fired up in the opening round of Mizuno Classic 2012, as she took the share of third position after registering a 69.
Choi, who ranks among big names on the LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association) Tour, did not let her nerve derail her at all, as she started the day by draining two straight birdies.
It was a bright start by Choi, given the gritty lineup that saw 8 Japanese players seize positions inside the top 10.
The South Korean star then parred the next five holes and rattled off another birdie on the difficult par-3 8th hole.
On the back nine, Choi’s driver did not stop producing solid strokes, but a bogey on the 17th proved a little downer. On the par-4 10th, she fired her fourth birdie.
Although the roster is packed with tough contenders from across the globe, Japanese stand strong thanks to home crowd advantage and experience of the course.
South Korean Jiyai Shin, who has won two editions of the Mizuno Classic, started the round in impressive style as she shot a 68 to grab the share of an early lead.
Whereas, little-known Ayako Uehara from Japan clawed her way to the top, sharing the lead with Shin after she fired a 68.
Commentators said that the next two rounds will see a much tougher competition as the weather conditions remained perfect throughout the day, helping players handle the ball well on the fairways
and greens.
Annika Sorenstam, who is a great admirer of Asian golf, said in her interview with the LPGA Tour that Japanese players are making a mark in professional golf and the ongoing tournament is
going to further cement their reputation.
“It seems that Japanese golfers take great pride in competing, not just for themselves but for their country,” said Sorenstam who won Mizuno Classic five times in her pro career.
She said that the country has produced plenty of talented players in its golfing history—and among them—Ai Miyazato stands tall. The golfing icon further said that the media attention has
impressed everyone as players are hoping to gain a big boost on the global scene.
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