Indonesia’s George Gandranata kept alive the local hopes when he posted a one-under-par 71 to stay four shots back of first round leaders Nicholas Fung of Malaysia and Korean American Anthony Kang in tied-34th place at the US$750,000 CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters on Thursday.
The 28-year-old, who plays regularly on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) which is the Tour’s secondary circuit, fired three birdies against two bogeys to stay on track for a possible breakthrough win on home soil.
Gandranata was delighted with his solid round after riding on a hot putter which was the key for him at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club.
“I already have a plan on attacking this golf course according to my skills set and I must say it went well for me today. I think the key to playing well on this course is to putt well. You got to put the ball in the right place and you need to putt well to score well. The greens here are really sloppy,” said Gandranata.
Gandranata hopes to take advantage of his experience of playing on the ADT and make his impression at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters this week.
“Playing on the ADT has really helped my game. It has given me a lot of experience playing with the professionals out here. The competition is really good here and it gives you the opportunity to hone your game,” said Gandranata, who has been playing on the ADT since turning professional in 2012.
Local amateur Fadhli Rahaman Soetarso signed for a 72 while compatriot Sarmilih is tied on 61st after carding a 73.
