Golfers take cover from Malaysia heat, humidity, and thunderstorrms
(03-21 19:55)
Kiradech Aphibarnrat staked out an early lead as world number three Luke Donald struggled to settle in today on a rain-interrupted first day's play at the Maybank Malaysian Open.
Kiradech posted eight birdies for a seven-under 65 to go top as roughly half the field managed to finish play before thunderstorms moved in at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club, AFP reports.
But European Tour stalwarts Edoardo Molinari of Italy, Denmark's Anders Hansen and Frenchman Gregory Bourdy were just a stroke behind, while 36 others shot under par at the US$2.75 million tournament.
Kiradech, 23, who is suffering from a thyroid condition, had to hold back with his driver to preserve energy in a steamy morning session, but it did no harm to his game.
“The weather is too hot, and the thyroid disease is making me feel tired. Honestly, I didn't have enough energy to hit long drives,'' the Thai said afterwards.
Despite chipping in for birdie on the last hole, Donald managed only a two-over 74 after three straight bogeys early in his round.
“The game was quite tough for me, as it's one of those courses where if you're a little bit off, it can get you,'' he said.
Those who were unable to finish their rounds before the storm clouds rumbled in are in for a long day in the humidity on Friday, when they will tee off early to make up the missed holes.
The tournament is co-sanctioned by the European Tour and the Asian Tour
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