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Phuket golf prodigy takes top overall prize in nationals

Phuket golf prodigy takes top overall prize in nationals

PHUKET: Phuket's 12-year-old golf prodigy, Luangnitikul “Mark” Vanchai, took the top overall prize at the Singha Thailand Junior World Golf Championships in Hua Hin earlier this month.

tourism
By Jean-Pierre Mestanza

Wednesday 26 November 2014 10:03 AM


Luangnitikul “Mark” Vanchai finished no. 1 overall in the  Singha Thailand Junior World Golf Championships this month, considered the most prestigious youth golf tournament in Thailand. Photo: JP Mestanza

Luangnitikul “Mark” Vanchai finished no. 1 overall in the Singha Thailand Junior World Golf Championships this month, considered the most prestigious youth golf tournament in Thailand. Photo: JP Mestanza

This is the fourth straight year the Kajonkiet International School student has won the tournament in his age group but the first time he took the overall trophy following an outstanding three-day performance where he finished 8-under par.

It wasn't even close as the second place winner finished 5-over par.

“This tournament is really big for Thailand, so when I play, it's exciting but I know I can do it,” Mark said.

As the sole junior golf athlete from Phuket, Vanchai held the island's expectation on his shoulders but passed with flying colours. Earlier this year, he finished 4th at the prestigious Callaway Junior World Golf Championships in San Diego, California, in addition to a host of other international junior competitions.

Next up, he plans to compete in Malaysia this December. He is also being recruited to train at Australian golfer Jason Day's academy on a scholarship.

“The people from the academy will talk to my dad and see what will happen,” he said. AFP