Trail-Blazers from Nepal and Kyrgyzstan Take a Bow

Chonburi, Thailand: Subash Tamang and Jantai Malataev wrote their names into Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship (AAC) folklore with ground-breaking performances at Amata Spring Country Club.

Tamang’s incredible journey in golf hit another milestone on Friday when he became the first player from Nepal to make the cut in the AAC.

Also booking his spot in the final two rounds was Malataev, a junior at Lincoln Memorial University in Tennessee. He is the first representative from Kyrgyzstan to participate in all four rounds of the region's premier amateur event.

“My goal is to be a role model for the younger kids back home. Just to grow the game and show them that they can do it, too. And to show the world what Kyrgyzstan is made of. And what kind of people come out of there,” said Malataev.

Adding a three-under 69 to his opening 73, Malataev had good reason to pat himself on the back. “I played some solid golf and holed some putts. I’m pretty proud of myself to make the cut,” said Malataev, referring to the fact that there’s only one nine-hole facility in his home country. 

“My dad actually taught me how to play golf, got me into it, and we had a couple of coaches that were coaching me. It was kind of hard, I guess, but still fun.  I just fell in love with the game,” he said.

He’s also enjoyed being part of the AAC. “It’s awesome. I think it’s such a great opportunity to get your name out there, get yourself out there, have an opportunity to play the biggest tournaments in golf, the Masters and The Open. 

“This tournament (AAC) opens up so many doors for players like myself and maybe players from other countries that don’t have the recognition just yet.

“My goal overall coming into this tournament was just to make the cut and to have fun. For the next two days, I’m just aiming to have fun and play my best.”

Similar sentiments were expressed by Tamang, who made the cut on the mark following rounds of 74-70.

His 2022 has already included multiple victories in his home country, opportunities and support from numerous individuals and organisations, a new house for his family, and a top-10 in the Thailand Amateur Open.