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Thaworn relishing trip to Pulai Springs

Asian Tour number one Thaworn Wiratchant is relishing a trip to the inaugural Pulai Springs Malaysian Masters in a bid to restart his winning ways.

The talented Thai has always enjoyed competing in Malaysia and has two Asian Tour titles on Malaysian soil under his belt and no fewer than six other victories on the domestic circuit, including a triumph in the Malaysian PGA Championship.

The 39-year-old Thaworn will headline a strong field at the US$300,000 tournament at Pulai Springs Resort and is confident of driving his way to glory once more after a memorable 2005 season which saw him lift four titles and a first Order of Merit crown.

"I've won two of my Asian Tour titles in Malaysia and on the domestic circuit there, I have won six times previously. I have always done well and Malaysia has always been good to me.

"It will be my first time playing the Pulai course, so I'll have to figure out how best to play it well. It's good to see a new tournament coming on board the Asian Tour Schedule," said Thaworn, who is currently 12th on the UBS Order of Merit.

His two Asian Tour triumphs in Malaysia were recorded at the 1996 Sabah Masters and 2001 Volvo Masters of Malaysia. At last week's Crowne Plaza Open in China, Thaworn contended for the title before settling for fourth place.

Although the Thai star has yet to secure a victory this season, he has enjoyed a steady campaign where the main highlight was a major debut at the British Open at Hoylake in July.

Thaworn finished a creditable tied 31st playing against the world's elite and had the pleasure of joining Tiger Woods and Sergio Garcia as the only players to sink eagle two's during the year's third major.

"It was a good experience and I was happy as it showed I could compete against some of the best players in the world," said Thaworn of his experience at the British Open.

It was at the Open that Thaworn switched to a new driver which he hopes will lead him back to more silverware at the Pulai Springs Malaysian Masters. While he is getting less distance with the new club, he is hitting more fairways which allows him to attack the flags with his short game wizardry.

"I'm happy with the new driver although it's a bit shorter in distance compared to my old one. I need a good week to get my second half of the year going again. Compared to last year where I won four times, I feel I'm still striking the ball just as good this season. I've not made enough putts when it matters," said the Thai.

August 22, 2006