PGA Gold: Na Comes in Third at the Southern Farm Bureau Classic

Super Rookie Kevin Na (Na Sang-wook) of Kolon Elord has made a “half success.”

At the Southern Farm Bureau Classic (total prize of $3 million) his 6-under 66 and a total 20-under 268 catapulted him into a tie for third place, two strokes off the leading pace set by American veteran Fred Funk after Saturday’s third round in Madison, Miss.

This is Na’s best record of the season and marked the second time he has finished among the top 10 since the Honda Classic in March.

He showed a great drive sensibility with 54 consecutive bogey-free holes from the second round onward. It is deplorable for him to miss the first place finish. On the forth round, he hit every green and hounded champion Fred Funk (22-under 268) of the U.S. by the margin of a single drive.

Adding the prize money of $140,000 to his coffers, Na’s prize money ranking went up 88th from 104th. He has secured his position in the full seed.

“It is deplorable. It drives me crazy,” said Na, expressing his frustrations with missing an opportunity to be the champion. “I did well. However, Funk outplayed me.”

“I did not have much luck this time,” said a confident Kevin. “However, I have more experience, and my drive is improving. I am sure this will be great news to my fans.”

The successful rookie Na will compete to win the championship at the Michelin Championship (total prize of $4 million) in Las Vegas, Nevada on October 7.

Young-Sik Ahn ysahn@donga.com