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Siripong strikes historic drive in Brunei

Thailand's Siripong Maitreeyeunyong has never felt so much tension as he did this morning before teeing off in the inaugural US$300,000 Brunei Open.

Standing on the first tee at the impressive Empire Hotel and Country Club, located on the fringe of South China Sea, the 26-year-old rookie professional was randomly drawn by the Asian Tour's computer system to hit the opening tee shot in the first group out.

And the unheralded Thai responded with a superb three wood that split the fairway.

While Siripong eventually signed for an eight-over-par 79, he will go down in Asian golf annals as the player who struck the historic first tee shot in Brunei's first professional tournament.

"It was exciting to have the first tee shot of the first Brunei Open. I was a bit nervous as I knew it was a big occasion. But I hit a perfect shot from off the tee and it landed on the fairway," said the Bangkok-based Siripong.

"Unfortunately though, I didn't finish with a good score. I'll try again tomorrow but it was nice to be a part of history. This event can grow into a big one as we're on a great course with good facilities and a great resort."

Siripong's playing partner, Brunei's amateur Arfian Kadir, was also proud to be in the first group out in the morning.

A scratch handicapper, the 31-year-old returned a 78 in his first appearance at a professional event and is contemplating a career in the professional ranks.

"It's the first time I'm in a pro event and it was good experience. I hope the Brunei Open will be an annual tournament and grow bigger. I was really nervous out there and the course set up is so much harder than amateur events.

"I may want to turn professional after the South East Asian Games later this year as the Asian Tour provides opportunities to make a career from out of golf. I've been watching the pros at the range this week and ball-striking wise, there is very little difference. But they manage their games so well and practice long hours," said Arfian, who is a former two-time Brunei amateur champion.

Australian Pat Giles, who started his round from the 10th, shot the Brunei Open's first birdie on his opening hole while Glen Joyner struck the first eagle on the 12th hole.

June 23, 2005