Bangkok: Rising Indian golfer Gaganjeet Bhullar began his new year with a bang, scripting a sensational come-from-behind victory at the season-opening Asian Tour International on Sunday.
Going into the final round six shots off pace after three successive rounds of 71, the 21-year-old Kapurthala pro seemed to have reserved his best for last as he blasted a course record eight-under 64 to aggregate 11-under 277 and nix Hwang Inn-choon's (69) title bid in the $300,000 event.
This was Bhullar's second Asian Tour title, following his breakthrough win in last year's Indonesian President Invitational tournament, which marked him as one of Asia's brightest prospects.
It was a flawless display by the youngster who parred the opening hole before an eagle flew off his club on the par-five second hole at the Suwan Golf and Country Club.
That set the tone for a sparkling round and the Indian maintained the tempo.
Two par shots later, he reeled off a birdie hat-trick and nailed a birdie on the ninth hole as well to lie six-under at the turn.
On his way back, Bhullar birdied the 15th and 18th as well, while ensuring it was a bogey-free round, to make it a dramatic come-from-behind triumph. .
"It's amazing. I have no words to describe it, I'm totally speechless," a beaming Bhullar later said.
"When I woke up this morning, I just wanted to shoot a good number. I never ever thought I was going to shoot a 64 and win by one. It's like a dream coming true. My first event of the year and winning at the start of the season will give me a lot of confidence," said Bhullar, who pocketed $47,550 for his exploits.
"After 15 where I made a good curling putt, I told myself to make par on 16 and 17 and make a birdie on 18. Everything happened the way I decided. On 18, it was amazing. I told myself that the putt was to win the tournament.
"It was a crucial one as I had missed the same putt last two days from the nearly same line. I had a bit of an idea that it would come from the right. I just got lucky. I'm sure my confidence will go up a long way," said the youngster.
"I'm looking forward to next week (Avantha Masters in Gurgaon). It's a big event and I love the DLF course as I've won there twice (on the local circuit). Going back to play in front of the home crowd will give me a great sense of achievement," added the youngster.
Comments
0 comment