Hong Kong Open: three things to watch on day two

Thaworn marches on

Hats off to Thai veteran Thaworn Wiratchant who is making his 400th Asian Tour appearance this week. The 48-year-old has been ever-present since making his pro debut way back in 1987 and across his career the Thai player has collected 18 Tour titles and Order of Merit crowns in 2005 and 2014. The secret to his success (and longevity)? “Put it simply, I’m ambitious,” he said. Put it simply, he’s an inspiration.

Cometh the hour

Irish 24-year-old Kevin Phelan came to town needing to finish in the top six if he is to ensure full playing privileges on the European Tour next season. He’s put himself bang in the mix, too, after a first-round, four-under-par 66 left him tied for fourth coming into day two. A bogey five on the last wasn’t the ideal way to end the day, but Phelan showed enough across the day to prove that he’s up for the fight.

Rally around the flag

Tough day at the office for the locals – and they’ll be needing all the support (and luck) they can get if they are to continue on into the weekend. Veteran amateur Max Wong Chen-kun’s two-over 72 was the best return from the seven Hongkongers in this year’s field, while James Stewart and Tim Tang worked hard for their four-overs.