A MISFIRING Kelly Tan (pic) moved to the front of the local pack at the Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia after notching an even par-71 for a second day in a row at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club yesterday.
The LPGA rookie bogeyed the second, third, 10th and 16th holes but made up for it with birdies on the sixth, 15th, 17th and 18th to finish the third round joint 55th on three-over 216.
The 21-year-old, who came within reach of the title at the Marathon Classic (United States) where she placed fourth, was not happy with her performance.
“I did not start off how I had wanted today (yesterday) but I did get a few birdies to get back again. I still have not got the speed of the green here,” said Kelly.
“I get a little frustrated, that is kind of how I am. I am still learning to be more happy and relaxed on course. I take things very seriously and I do not think it helps.”
Michelle Koh — who finished as the top Malaysian for the opening two days — had a disappointing outing, carding 78 no thanks to a two stroke penalty incurred after inadvertently taking a buggy ride from the halfway hut (toilet) at the first hole. She finished in 65th place.
“I came out of the hut and a marshall offered me a ride to the hole. I was already behind so I took it (ride) and got the penalty. Very expensive ride,” said the 24-year-old, who started from the back nine.
Tournament rules only allow players to use transportation between holes 15 and 16 and they must only be transported by an LPGA Rules Official.
Aretha Pan and Ainil Johani Abu Bakar both carded 76 to place joint 66th and joint 68th respectively while Michelle Low (80) and Jean Chua (77) finished the day in 72nd and 73rd positions.