16/11/2023. The BNI Indonesian Masters presented by Tunas Niaga Energi (TNE) 2023 was a tight affair with Gaganjeet Bhullar (India) coming out on top.
Bhullar carded an 8 under par 63 in the first round of the US$1.5 million event on Thursday (16/11/2023).
The winner of the BNI Indonesian Masters presented by Tunas Niaga Energi (TNE) 2022, Sarit Suwannarut (Thailand) was only able to produce 3 over 74 shots.
Anirban Lahiri (India), Champion of the BNI Indonesian Masters presented by TNE in 2014 was also only able to put up a modest performance with a 2 over 73.
Meanwhile, Indonesian golf athlete Jonathan Wijono scored 3 under 68 strokes. Jonathan packed three birdies on holes 2, 4, and 13.
As a result, Jonathan was ensconced in the top 19, along with ten other golfers, including fellow local golfer Elkie Kow, who shot three under.
Jonathan said that the opportunity to appear at the BNI Indonesian Masters presented by TNE is a proud opportunity.
"This tour is world-class so it boosts my motivation. It's hard to get through this tour. So, I focus on the quality of my shots, not wanting to get caught up in mental strain,” Jonathan said.
Jonathan highlighted that there are no special weapons prepared ahead of round 2, which is also the cut-off stage for round 3 on Saturday (18/11/2023).
“For sure, I want to maintain the atmosphere of the game, stay conservative and aggressive,” he added.
Jonathan's compatriots Kevin Akbar, Naraajie Ramadhan Putra, Rory Hie and Asep Syaifulloh are still able to show a good game and able to survive in 94th place with 23 other golfers.
BNI President Director Royke Tumilaar stated that the first day of competition was extremely intense. All golfers have the same potential, therefore the match became quite fascinating to watch.
He continued, BNI's participation as one of the main supporters was to strengthen BNI's Go Global branding. Moreover, many local and international partners and investors love to watch this prestigious sport.
“We continue to proactively encourage branding as well as the opening of new global business potentials, including through the BNI Indonesian Masters presented by Tunas Niaga Energi (TNE) event,” Royke said.