Seasoned golfer Kyungnam Kang is proving that experience counts at the Asian Tour Qualifying School Final Stage in Hua Hin, Thailand. The 41-year-old Korean produced a scintillating performance in the third round, firing a six-under-par 65 on the A and B course at Lake View Resort and Golf Club to open up a three-shot lead.

Kang’s round was highlighted by a 40-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole, following an eagle on the par-five 15th. Sitting at 16-under-par with two rounds remaining, Kang is in prime position to secure one of the coveted 35 Asian Tour cards for 2025.

Chasing the Leader

A trio of challengers trails Kang at 13-under: Christopher Hickman (65) from the United States, and Japan’s Takumi Murakami (66) and Taiki Yoshida (67). A shot behind them are India’s Ajeetesh Sandhu (68) and Australia’s Jack Thompson (70), the second-round leader and a previous Qualifying School winner at the same venue.

With the C and D nines—the more challenging layout—awaiting tomorrow, the competition remains fierce as players vie to survive the second and final cut, which will see the top 70 and ties advance to the final round.

Kang Eyes the Asian Tour and Beyond

A decorated golfer with 11 domestic titles in Korea, Kang’s decision to compete in the Asian Tour Qualifying School is driven by the allure of the Asian Tour’s International Series, which offers a potential pathway to LIV Golf.

“International Series can get you onto LIV Golf – I feel now is my best chance,” Kang said, emphasizing his determination.

With consistent performances in Asian Tour events held in Korea this season, including a third-place finish at the Kolon Korea Open, Kang’s form makes him a strong contender to achieve his goals.

Other Highlights

• Australia’s Jordan Zunic gave the crowd something to cheer for with a hole-in-one on the par-three 14th, using a five iron. He sits tied for 30th at six-under after carding a 67.
• Lawry Flynn (Australia), Yosuke Asaji (Japan), and Korea’s Doyeob Mun are tied for seventh at 11-under, five shots off the lead.

Big Names in Trouble

Several notable players face an uphill battle to make the cut tomorrow:

• Marc Warren (Scotland)
• Berry Henson (USA)
• Sam Broadhurst (England), son of Ryder Cup legend Paul Broadhurst
• Alejandro Canizares (Spain), son of Ryder Cup great Jose-Maria Canizares
• Jason Knutzon (USA)

All are tied for 76th at two-under and need strong performances to stay in contention.

Final Round Anticipation

The final round on Saturday will return to the A and B nines, offering a slightly easier track but with the pressure at its peak. The top 35 players after Saturday will earn their Tour cards, making it a high-stakes day for all competitors.

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will remain on Kyungnam Kang, whose wealth of experience and composed play could lead him to a triumphant finish and a new chapter on the Asian Tour.