Just like a good bottle of vintage wine, Chinese Taipei’s Lu Wen-teh’s victory at the Mercuries Taiwan Masters on Sunday, shows that he only gets better with age.
Lu’s finesse and experience at handling pressure at the biggest stage was for all to see at the Taiwan Golf and Country Club where he fought off a spirited challenge from fellow Thai veteran, Thaworn Wiratchant to card a final round of one-under-par 71 on the way to a winning total of 11-under-par 277.
As a result of his success, the 45-year old walked away with the top prize of US$100,000 and rises to 14th place on the Asian Tour’s Order of Merit with total earnings of US$194,429.
“I’ve been a professional golfer for more than 20 years and I still have the same drive and mental approach. If I missed the cut, it’s fine as I know I’ve tried my best. I put in my best effort in every event which I believe has kept me in the winner’s circle all these years,” said Lu who could have added a sixth Asian Tour title to his trophy cabinet had he not lost to Australia’s Rick Kulacz in a play-off at last month’s Brunei Open.
“The win has made me feel young again. It’s a great feeling,” added Lu.
Like Lu, Thaworn is also not showing any signs of slowing down his pursuit for more glory on the Asian Tour.
Despite finishing second, the 2005 Asian Tour Order of Merit champion made it an enthralling showdown with Lu, rewarding the galleries with a masterful display that went right up to the final closing hole until Lu’s spectacular three foot par sealed his win.
“I’m very pleased with my performance this week despite finishing runner-up. There will always be another day,” said the 42-year old, who would have dispelled any fears that he is well past his prime with his recent performances.
Thaworn, chasing a record 11th Asian Tour victory moved up four places on the Asian Tour Order of Merit to ninth place after accumulating US$232,128.62 in earnings so far.
Korean-born Anthony Kang of the United States who was amongst the contenders at the weekend, moved up five places to 23rd place on US$ $113,970.62.
The Asian Tour heads to Osaka this week for the Asia-Pacific Panasonic Open which will be making its debut on the Asian Tour. The event is jointly sanctioned by the Asian Tour and Japan Golf Tour Organization (JGTO).
Just like a good bottle of vintage wine, Chinese Taipei’s Lu Wen-teh’s victory at the Mercuries Taiwan Masters on Sunday, shows that he only gets better with age.
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