Local stars are ready to shine as the International Series Thailand kicks off this week, with the home golfers looking to build on their strong showing at the Black Mountain Championship.
Last weekend saw seven Thai golfers finish in the top 20, with Suteepat Prateeptienchai leading the charge after tying for fourth, just three strokes behind eventual winner Michael Maguire of the U.S.
Suteepat, ranked 18th on The International Series Rankings and fifth on the Asian Tour Order of Merit, has been on fire lately, coming off a win at the Yeangder TPC in Chinese Taipei.
He’s confident that his current form, particularly with the putter, can keep him in the hunt for another high finish.
His focus now is on maintaining his consistency in the remaining five elevated events, knowing that the overall series winner secures a spot in the LIV Golf League next season.
Reflecting on his performance, Suteepat said, “I played well, I missed two to three close putts, but I am satisfied with my performance for the four days – I set a target of four to five putts per day. Finishing 20-under is excellent for me going into International Series Thailand.
He’s aware, though, that the challenge at Thai Country Club will be different. “I have played Thai Country Club before, but not often. I heard there is long rough, and I need to work hard in preparation, to get a feel for the rough, the greens and the weather. I have to plan my game and pick up a lot of birdies again because the cut is likely to be high again.
Joining Suteepat in the hunt is Sadom Kaewkanjana, ranked 12th in the series.
Sadom notched a T9 finish at Black Mountain and T4 at the International Series England earlier this season. He’s confident but knows that the flatter layout of Thai Country Club presents a fresh test compared to the hilly Black Mountain.
“I played the Thai Country Club course last month and it was in perfect condition, but my game plan needs to change because it is more flat than Black Mountain. The green reading and putting game will be totally different.
“Going into the week, I am happy with my performance overall. I had a target to score four under daily, so to get around in 18 under was beyond my expectations, If I can maintain my standard and keep the form, I will play well this week.”
Other notable performers include Suradit Yongcharoenchai, who also tied for ninth last week, and Gunn Charoenkul, who shot a stunning 10-under 62 in his final round to finish T14.
Suradit has had a quieter season but remains optimistic about climbing the rankings, especially with his solid form from last week.
“I did not play well at the beginning of the season, but I have been getting better. I expected to finish in the top 15 and I made it comfortably, so I hope to keep my form for this week. If I can finish like that again I will be very happy.
“I have not played at Thai Country Club for around four years now, but I think the course layout will fit my game and hopefully we can have a good Thai performance again.”
The International Series Thailand, running from 24–27 October, is the sixth of 10 events that create a pathway to the LIV Golf League, making this a crucial stop for many players.
With home advantage and local knowledge in their favour, the Thai golfers are gearing up to make a serious run at the title.
