Thaworn Wiratchant sets his sights on the Asian Tour Order of Merit
Thailand’s Thaworn Wiratchant has set his sights on becoming the oldest player ever to win the Asian Tour Order of Merit title, when he tees off next week at the UBS Hong Kong Open, on November 15, 2012.
The tournament will be played at the Hong Kong Golf Club, featuring a star-studded field that includes the likes of the world number one Rory McIlroy, major champions Darren Clarke and YE Yang, as well as Michael Campbell, who won the US Open 2005.
With a number of players preparing themselves for a strong battle to win the standings, Wiratchant knows that a strong performance will be essential to hold on to his position on the top.
The three-time winner this season, in the meantime, is not worried about the strong field and is confident to maintain his form in the US$2 million event.
“No problem playing against them. I only need to focus on my own game and the rest will take care by itself,” said Thaworn.
“Winning the UBS Hong Kong Open is important as it’ll give me an advantage on the rankings. Let’s see how it goes next week,” added the Thai.
According to the golf commentators, Wiratchant certainly has the potential to retain the lead, entering the last three events on the Asian Tour roster after the Hong Kong Open.
However, he will have to hold on to his nerves, as the final-moment pressure can destroy the confidence of any player in the world.
Gaganjeet Bhullar of India also aims a victory in Hong Kong, which will take him to the top of the Order of Merit.
In addition to that, a total of 40 tour champions will fight their way to bring back the prestigious trophy home, as not a single Asian player has managed to win any of the last four editions.
The tournament will also witness a number of players contending for the top-60 finish in the Order of Merit, which will allow them to retain their playing status on the tour.
Otherwise, they will have to participate in the Asian Tour’s Qualifying School, to regain their full-time playing rights for the 2013 season.
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