Golf: Maja Stark Snatches Lead in 2024 Maybank Championship
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, October 25, 2024 – Swedish golfer Maja Stark has taken the second round lead in the 2024 Maybank Championship, carding a six-under 66 at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club (KLGCC), Bukit Kiara here.
Second Round Summary
At 24 years old, Stark moved to the top of the leaderboard with a one-stroke advantage over four other golfers, firing seven birdies and a bogey for an overall score of twelve under 132 in the US$3 million event. She moved aggressively in the day, starting with birdies on the first, third, and fifth holes, but bogeyed the par-three eighth hole. After a strong finish with back-to-back birdies on holes 10-13, Stark concluded her round just before play was interrupted by weather conditions at 2:10 pm.
Sharing the Joint Second Spot
Four golfers, including American Marina Alex, Hsu Wei Ling of Taiwan, South Koreans An Narin and Ryu Hae Ran, finished joint second with an overall score of eleven under 133. Alex carded a 69 and 64, while Hsu, An, and Ryu scored 65 and 68, 66 and 67, and 64 and 69, respectively.
Stark’s Outlook
Stark expressed satisfaction with her round, stating, "The day went very well with pretty solid off the tee. I have been struggling a bit with my putting this whole year, but I feel like I really had an easier time seeing the lines here than I usually do." She plans to maintain her focus, unconcerned about the possibility of others overtaking her, citing, "I am not going to freak out if anyone overtake me for the lead, and will keep doing what I am doing. I mean, there is so much more golf to be played and anything can happen. It’s definitely not a big gap to anyone behind."
Overnight Leader Loses Momentum
Mao Saigo of Japan, who held the overnight lead after an incredible nine-under 63 in the first round, could not sustain her momentum, finishing joint 13th with six other golfers. Her two-over 74 score on the second day resulted in a two-day total of seven under 137.
Defending Champion and Runner-up Remain Tight
Defending champion Celine Boutier of France and runner-up Jeeno Thitikul of Thailand continued their consistent performance, carding three-under 69 scores to share ninth place with Bianca Pagdanganan of the Philippines and American Kristen Gillman. Yesterday, they tied for 11th place after a five-under 67 round.
Conclusion
The 2024 Maybank Championship promises to be an exciting event, with Stark’s determined performance setting the stage for an fierce competition among the remaining golfers. As the tournament progresses, fans can expect thrilling moments and surprises. Stay tuned for updates and analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- When and where is the 2024 Maybank Championship taking place?
The 2024 Maybank Championship is taking place at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club (KLGCC), Bukit Kiara in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from October 24 to 27, 2024. - Who are the top contenders for the championship?
Recent performances suggest that Maja Stark, Marina Alex, Hsu Wei Ling, An Narin, and Ryu Hae Ran are the top contenders for the championship. - How many golfers are participating in the tournament?
The 2024 Maybank Championship features a field of [number] golfers from around the world. - How can I follow the tournament?
Fans can follow the tournament on [social media handles] for updates, scores, and analysis.