Jesper Parnevik believes his best golfing days are not over as he prepares to take a crack at the inaugural Black Mountain Masters starting today.
The Swedish veteran stars in the Asian Tour event at the Black Mountain Golf Club where his main rivals include local heroes Thongchai Jaidee, Prayad Marksaeng and the in-form Chapchai Nirat, who won in India last week.
Johan Edfors of Sweden, a three-time winner in Europe, Mikko Ilonen of Finland and current Asian Order of Merit leader Anthony Kang also feature.
The 44-year-old Parnevik insists he still has plenty to offer despite a lack of success in recent times.
A five-time winner on the US PGA Tour with nine other worldwide victories, he is hoping to find a second wind.
“I’m working as hard as ever. My back held me back the last six months and I’ve not played well but I feel I still have a lot of golf in me,” he said.
“My game is almost very, very good. I’m still motivated to win more tournaments and play for many more years,” Parnevik said.
A twice runner-up at the British Open, the Swede is known to be eccentric and is often attired in colorful clothing. He was synonymous with an upturned peak in his cap although he now uses the traditional porkpie hat.
But the man from Stockholm ultimately wants to be known for his game.
“A month ago, my back felt great and I shot 61 in California which was my lowest score on the PGA Tour. When things are fine, things can be perfect,” he said.
“I feel I can play very well again as my back is 100 percent good,” Parnevik said.
The smooth-swinging Prayad, who grew up in Hua Hin, knows he needs at least a top-three finish here to ensure he stays in the world’s top-50 to earn a place in the US Masters next month.
“I’m not feeling any pressure at all. I know what I must do and if I can achieve my goal, it’ll be good. If I can’t, it won’t worry me,” said Prayad, who is currently ranked 50.
“My game feels good. My driving, iron play and putting are working nicely and I’m looking forward to the week. It’s a great course but the winds in the afternoon will be a factor,” he said.
Fellow Thai Thongchai, currently second on the Asian Tour Order of Merit, is hoping that a week spent practising at home will bring its rewards.
“I spent some good time working on my game and I’m looking forward to a good week. My game feels strong and I’m ready to challenge,” Thongchai said.
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