Published July 17, 2008 on March 18, 2019

Kelly Tan Wins Maiden Symetra Tour Title with Playoff in Florida

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Malaysia’s Kelly Tan sank a birdie putt on the first hole of the sudden-death playoff with American Demi Runas to capture her maiden Symetra Tour title in the 11^thFlorida’s Natural Charity Classic played at the Country Club of Winter Haven.

The 25-year-old professional from Batu Pahat had been struggling in the last two season, losing her LPGA card at the end of the 2017 season. Her outing on the Symetra Tour last season was also disappointing for the golfer from Batu Pahat.

“I’m still trying to compose myself, it is really great for me winning here,” said Tan, who set the 54-hole tournament scoring record with a 13-under par total (203 – 66-67-70). “Missing the cut last week was really devastating because coming into the season I had a lot of confidence and was really excited, maybe a little too excited. Coming into this week, I’ve never felt like this in any situation. I think it was great and hope to keep the confidence level up.”

Tan headed into the final round with a one-stroke lead and had to eagle the final hole to force a playoff. Her winning birdie netted her the US$18,750 winner’s cheque moving her up to third place in the Symetra Tour moneylist. Top 10 finishers will receive the LPGA Tour card for the 2020 season.

Tan became a rookie on the LPGA Tour in 2014 and competed on the big stage through 2017. The results didn’t come as expected and then last season, she found herself on the Symetra Tour with the objective of reaching the LPGA once again.

In 16 starts during her first year on the Symetra Tour, Tan made three cuts. Now, she steps into the winner’s circle for the first time in any LPGA Tour family event.

“Playing on the LPGA made me a lot stronger and mature on the golf course, knowing what I can and can’t do,” Tan said. “Going through last year, it was obviously the worst of my career and the most down I’ve ever been emotionally. I’m very grateful for the people around me because they never had a doubt, even when I doubted myself. It has definitely helped me get to where I am today.”