The opening day of the 119th Malaysian Amateur Open at the Tiara Melaka Golf & Country Club witnessed some extraordinary golfing talent in action. The event, graced by top amateur golfers globally, highlighted impressive performances, especially from our daily leaders in both the men’s and women’s categories.
In the men’s category, Leo White from Thailand and Malaysia’s Daniel Woz share the lead with a score of one-under-71 respectively. “Today’s round was challenging, but I focused on maintaining a steady pace and it paid off. I’m looking forward to building on this momentum,” said Leo echoing his confidence.
In close pursuit, Malaysia’s Nateeshvar Ganesh, Korea’s Park Jae Min and his teammate, Seung Hyun Pi were tied in third place with a score of even-par 72. These three players exhibited remarkable skill and determination on the course.
Malaysia’s top scorer in the men’s category is Daniel Woz who shared the top position with a score of one-under-par 71, showcasing the rising talent in Malaysian golf. He remarked, “I am happy that I managed to keep calm and followed through the game plan. I aim to keep this level of play and make Malaysia proud.”
China’s Liu Yujie leads the women’s category, finishing with an impressive score of three-under-69. “I felt in sync with the course today. Every shot was calculated, and I’m thrilled with the outcome. The competition is tough, but I’m ready for it,” shared Liu reflecting her solid performance. The feat becomes even more remarkable considering she’s the youngest competitor in the field at just 13 years old. The Liu family is no stranger to exceptional talent, with her father being a former table tennis world champion.
The second spot is shared by Malaysia’s Ng Jing Xuen and Pimpisa Rubrong with a score of two-under-70 respectively and the fourth position is held by Korea’s Seojin Park who ended the day with a score of even-par 72 Both players have demonstrated exceptional skill and are strong contenders for the title.
The top Malaysian scorer in the women’s category is Ng Jing Xuen finishing with a commendable score of two-under-par 70 representing the host nation with pride and skill. She shared, “It’s a great feeling to lead for my home country. My game felt strong today, and I’m motivated to continue this performance throughout the tournament.”
A special highlight of the tournament was the impressive hole-in-one achieved by Hariz Hezri at hole #17. “Achieving a hole-in-one in such a prestigious tournament is surreal. It’s a moment I’ll cherish forever,” Hariz Hezri remarked on his remarkable feat.
The Tournament Director, Mr Teoh Piek Kee, commented, “The level of talent we’re witnessing this year is extraordinary. Both the men’s and women’s categories are showcasing exceptional golf, setting the stage for an exciting tournament. Congratulations to Hariz Hezri for achieving a hole in one at #17.”