Weather presents tougher test on day three
Incessant rainfall, which has drenched the pristine fairways of Kasumigaseki Country Club’s West Course, has characterised the third morning of the 2010 Asian Amateur Championship. For the 64 players who have made the half-way cut, the conditions present a different set of challenges after two days which were perfect for scoring.
As of now (12.30pm), there are only six under-par scores, at the region’s most talented players struggle to keep their clubs dry and their minds clear through the inclement weather. No break in the rain is forecast this afternoon, or even tomorrow, but the wind is light and one or two players are sure to take full advantage.
Overnight leader Lam Zhiqun of Singapore began his third round at 12.25pm, accompanied by Japan’s Yosuke Asaji, who was alone at the top of the leaderboard after day one. 21-year-old Lam shot a Championship-best round of five-under-par 66 over the West Course yesterday, to take a one-stroke advantage over Asaji. Another Japanese, Hideki Matsuyama, is a further shot behind, alongside Lee Kyung-hoon of Korea on five-under-par 137.
Live streamed third-round coverage will begin at 2.30pm Japanese time (GMT +9) this afternoon on AsianAmateurChampionship.com. Bill Macatee, who is part of the Masters Tournament commentary team, and former European Tour professional Jay Townsend will act as the English-speaking announcers.
An invitation to the 2011 Masters Tournament awaits the champion this week, with both the winner and the runner(s)-up earning places in International Final Qualifying for The Open Championship being played next year at Royal St George’s Golf Club.
