SHAH ALAM: In a gripping display of skill and resilience, defending champion Danny Chia showcased his prowess on the golf course by shooting an impressive five-under 67 in the opening round of the Tun Ahmad Sarji Trophy at the Saujana Golf & Country Club here today.
In a closely contested field, Syahiran Syakir secured second spot, trailing Danny by a narrow one-stroke margin.
Galven Green, another standout performer last season, follows closely, just one stroke further behind in third place. Lying joint fourth are Sukree Othman and Fakhrul Akmal. Both carded one-under 71s.
"I'm quite happy with my game, especially my wedges," said Danny, 53.
"I had a few lucky breaks out there and five under after the first round … I'll take it anytime." Danny.
Toyota Tour 2023 Order of Merit winner Ervin Chang carded a one-over 73. The 25-year-old rising star had rushed back from Oman yesterday after competing on the Asian Tour's
International Series, where he finished a credible joint 43rd.
Promising youngster Khavish Varadan who was Malaysia's best performer in the recent Malaysian Open at The Mines Resort, managed just one birdie against three bogeys for a two-over 74 and a share of 21st placing.
The 54-hole tournament at Saujana's picturesque Bunga Raya course, marks the opening event of the Toyota Tour, organised by the Professional Golf Malaysia.