Thailand’s April Angurasaranee made a striking impression at the Modderfontein Golf Club as she teed off for the Joburg Ladies Open. With an immediate affinity for the course evident, she crafted a remarkable round of six under par 67, seizing the lead on Thursday’s opening round. Angurasaranee wasted no time, birdieing her first three holes, setting the tone for a stellar performance that saw her surge to a two-stroke lead over a competitive field co-sanctioned by the Sunshine Ladies Tour and Ladies European Tour. In a pack of six players at four under par, South Africa’s Nadia van der Westhuizen emerged as the leading local contender, hot on the trail of Angurasaranee’s lead.

The Thai golfer’s early birdie spree, coupled with a string of three more birdies over the turn, afforded her a crucial advantage on a day fraught with challenges. 

Despite Norway’s Michelle Forsland briefly sharing the lead, a late stumble with a bogey and a triple bogey dashed her hopes.

Reflecting on her impressive performance, Angurasaranee attributed her success to the course’s compatibility with her game, expressing a particular fondness for its layout. 

Her confidence buoyed by recent form, she emphasized the importance of self-belief and execution, crediting her solid shots and deft putting for her stellar score.

Despite her commanding start, Angurasaranee remained focused on the task ahead, mindful of the long road ahead in the tournament. 

With three rounds remaining, she remained grounded, determined to sustain her momentum and stay true to her game plan.

Meanwhile, Van der Westhuizen emerged as the leading South African contender, showcasing a flawless opening round to secure her position among the top performers. 

Alongside her, Singapore’s Shannon Tan, a force on the Ladies European Tour, stood at four under par, poised to challenge the leaderboard’s frontrunners.

 

Written by Luyanda Lunika

19/04/2024

 

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