Veteran defending champion Lu Wen-teh took a big step toward a record fourth Taiwan Masters title with a solid three-under 69 that left him one shot clear yesterday.
Lu, 45, nailed five birdies against two bogeys for a 10-under 206 total to grab the third-round lead over Thai star Thaworn Wiratchant, who recorded a 67 at the Taiwan Golf and Country Club.
American-based Anthony Kang shot the lowest round of the day after a 66 pushed him up to third place.
PHOTO: LIN CHENG-KUN, TAIPEI TIMES
Thailand’s Wisut Artjanawat remained in contention after a 72 to lie in joint fourth alongside Myanmar’s Zaw Moe, who carded a 70, and Taiwanese overnight leader Lin Wen-hong, who stumbled to a 78.
“I did not have a very good round today, but it was enough to get on top. I made the birdies where it mattered and kept it in play,” said Lu, who won way back in 1994 and 1996 before his success last year. “It’s going to be exciting as I will be playing with my friend Thaworn tomorrow.”
“But out on course, it’s down to business as we will both be gunning for the title,” Lu said.
Former Asian Tour No. 1 Thaworn enjoyed a bogey-free round with five birdies at the Tamsui Course.
“I am very happy with my score. But this is the home course for Lu and he will be backed by the local fans, so I know it’s going to be tough tomorrow,” Thaworn said.
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