Mirabel cruises to maiden pro win

New Straits Times

4 days ago

KUALA LUMPUR: Golfer Mirabel Ting made an instant impact in the professional ranks by romping to a commanding nine-shot victory at the PGM Royal Pahang Championship — barely a month into her pro career.
The 19-year-old Sarawakian was in complete control throughout the 54-hole tournament at the Pahang Royal Golf Club, closing with a steady two-under 70 on Thursday for a winning total of 14-under 202.
Mirabel, who turned professional earlier this month after leaving Florida State University with a year of eligibility left, had set the pace early with rounds of 67 and a brilliant 65 on Wednesday to build a five-shot cushion heading into the final round.
She was the only player in the women's field to shoot under par across all three rounds.
It was Mirabel's second victory on PGM Tour, after having won the Fortuner Cup in June last year.
Aretha Pan took runner-up honours on five-under 211 (68-69-74), followed by Zulaikah Nasser in third at even-par 216 (73-72-71).
The former world No. 2 amateur paid tribute to her late grandfather Ng Siaw Pheng — the person who first introduced her to golf.
"He always hoped I'd turn pro and compete at the highest level. He was always there for me and Malcolm (her brother) whenever we returned to Miri," said Mirabel, who cashed in RM10,000 in prize money.
"I'm thrilled to be playing at home and alongside my brother. This win means a lot."
Her professional debut came at the Amundi Evian Championship in France earlier this month, where she missed the cut in the LPGA major.
Meanwhile, the men's event saw Edven Ting prevail in a dramatic sudden-death showdown to end a two-year title drought.
Edven, Ben Leong and amateur Nateeshvar Ganesh all finished regulation play tied at 14-under 202, forcing a three-way play-off.
The deadlock was only broken on the fifth extra hole, where Edven calmly rolled in a winning putt as Ben faltered.
It was Edven's first victory since capturing the Toyota Tour title at Templer Park in 2023.