Choi’s March Toward Title

Kyung-ju Choi, also widely known as K. J. Choi, goes by the nickname “tank.” He says he likes it.

He believes the word “tank” indicates an unhindered charge forward.

Choi has been marching like a tank in the 136th British Open held at Carnoustie in Scotland.

Aiming at the title for the first time as an Asian golfer, Choi slid a little from the second spot to third yesterday in the third round of the Open.

Sergio Garcia finished it with three strokes shortened, and maintained the lead. He recorded a 9-under 204. Back in 1999, after botching up his second round at Carnoustie, he cried like a child in the arms of his mother. Now, however, he is very close to the title. Steve Stricker secured the second spot on the leaderboard.

Even more than three strokes behind, Choi didn’t get disappointed. He said, “I had a hard time under bad weather. Stricker shortened the lead by seven strokes, though. I thought I could do the same. My swings are good. I know how to handle rough courses. I do not give up.”

Raindrops and the cold chill bothered Choi yesterday. He had putting problems and got even par nine times. Choi, however, was a slow starter in the Memorial Tournament and the AT&T National this year, both of which Choi won come-from-behind victories.

Along with Choi, six other golfers such as Ernie Els, Padraig Harrington and Chris DiMarco finished third. Mike Weir and Vijay Singh slid back to the tenth.

Tiger Woods, who wishes to set a new record of three consecutive championship titles for the first time in 51 years, showed a disappointing 1-under 212, and ranked 15th. Thus, it seems unlikely Woods will defend his title.

kjs0123@donga.com