Jaidee: chasing Masters spot
Having set a new earnings landmark in Asian golf following his victory at the Indonesia Open, Thongchai Jaidee has now set his sights on securing a place at The Masters.
The Thai became the first Asian player to surpass $3 million dollars in career earnings with his victory on Bali last weekend as he claimed an unprecedented 11th title.
The 39-year-old finished two strokes clear of Englishmen Simon Dyson and Steve Webster and also Swede Alexander Noren.
His latest triumph saw him climb to 71 in the world rankings and he now had one eye on breaking the top 50 in time to secure a place at the season's opening major at Augusta in April.
He will continue his bid on home soil this week in the Thailand Open at the Laguna Phuket Golf Club and acknowledges he feels very happy with his game.
"My confidence is high now after the win," Jaidee stated. "I have performed well over the past three months, winning three times and also playing well in the Royal Trophy.
Masters aim
"I'm thinking about the Masters. If I win again this week, I will have a good chance.
"I will play in the Black Mountain Masters later this month, which is also in Thailand, so these events will give me a good chance to break into the top 50. I feel I'm very close.
"I've been trying to do that for a long time (break the top 50) and I have not been able to make it, but now I think that I have a very good chance.
"I'll turn 40 this year (in November) but it's only a number. I'm still feeling strong and I'm confident that I can still win regularly over the next few years.
"It's all about keeping yourself fit which is very important. I'm feeling stronger now and I'm slowly building up my fitness to a good level again."
Role-model
Jaidee has been praised for his exploits by Asian Tour executive chairman Kyi Hla Han who insists the 39-year-old is the ideal role-model for aspiring young players in the region.
"It was terrific to see Thongchai win in Indonesia and become the player with the most number of career victories in the region," Han declared.
"I am sure he will want to build on his latest success and challenge for a record third Order of Merit title and also achieve success away from Asian shores.
"I know he wants to compete regularly in the Majors and he's a great inspiration to many aspiring young golfers and a terrific ambassador for Asian golf."
