Choi Kyung-ju Eyes European Title

‘Tank’ Choi Kyung-ju (Superior•Tailormade) is just a step away from grabbing the victory at the EPGA Tour Linde German Masters (Total Reward 3million euro) he joined for just a refreshment.

At the third round held in Gut Lärchenhof Cologne GC (Par 72, 7285yard) Germany on Sep 20, Choi marked 21 under-par, 195 shots with 1 eagle, 7 birdies, and 1 bogie. He led by a shot from Miguel Angel Jimenez (196 shots Spain).

Choi can not feel relieved with many golfers fast catching up as the golf course is not very challenging. Still, it is a golden chance for Choi to grab the Europe Tour trophy for the first time, as he is maintaining good record (63-68-64) for four consecutive days.

Choi had difficult time with putting at the second US PGA Tour this year, but he showed off very stable putting with just 2 bogies during the 54 holes.

The fact that he is strong on the `golden bear` Jack Nicklaus(US)-designed course makes us have another hope for him. Jack Nicklaus, English Turn GC, designed the golf course where he won his first trophy at the US PGA Tour last year. So is the golf course for this game.

Choi expressed his confidence, ˝I have not fully captured this course as I am here for the first time, but it is very similar to the Compaq Classic golf course, where I won my first US PGA victory. I can expect good result if I do not stretch beyond my capabilities at the final round.˝

Meanwhile, Choi expressed his trust for his temporary caddie Andy Prodger(51), saying, ˝He told me precisely where to hit and where to avoid.˝ Prodger is a caddie with 25 years of experience working with Europe pro golf stars, such as Collin Montgomery and Lee Westwood.

Choi (Ranking 41) was playing in this game as a `visiting player` as this game has invited golfers within 50 rankings in the world every year. If he wins, he will bring home 500,000 euro (around 650 million won).

Young-Sik Ahn ysahn@donga.com