US-based Mirabel, a world-ranked amateur, finishes the first round in second spot. SIBU (June 25): The Fortuner Cup kicked off in spectacular fashion at Kelab Golf Sibu today. There was drama from both the men and women in first round action in the first pro golf tournament to be held in Sibu.
In the Ladies Championship, Geraldine Wong overcame a fall on her way to the 5th tee box to card a one-over 71 to lead Sarawak-born amateur Mirabel Ting Ern Hui by one stroke. Michelle Koh was one stroke further adrift on 73. Wong said she should be able to start the second round tomorrow.
Geraldine overcomes a fall to set the early pace. Meanwhile, Daeng Rahman and Ben Leong emerged as joint leaders in the men’s. Both carded remarkable seven-under-par 63s, setting a high bar for the competition.
A stroke behind and alone in third position was Edven Ying whose hot birdie-eagle-birdie start helped him to a six-under finish. Alone in fourth was Shahriffuddin Ariffin who strung eight birdies against three bogeys while Nicholas Fung and Brandon Lai shared fifth at four-under. But the day belonged to Daeng and Leong who showed composure throughout the round.
“This being my first time here I didn’t know what to expect about this Sibu course but after yesterday’s pro-am, I felt that I could shoot a low number here,” said Daeng who is still nursing a wrist injury. “It’s a short course but the greens are tricky. I like the layout,” he added.
Leong was happy to jointly lead the to.
