Tomarata:"FIFA" Pongsapak Laophakdee retained his lead at the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship despite challenging weather conditions on Friday, October 30, 2026, in New Zealand. Laophakdee shot 1 over par 72 in the second round, maintaining a two-day total of 7 under par 135, which places him two strokes ahead of local golfer Cooper Moore.
According to Thai News Agency, the 17th Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship is organized by the Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation (APGC), The Masters Tournament, and The R and A. It is being held at Te Arai Links (South Course) in Tomarata, New Zealand, from October 29 to November 1, 2026. This year, the event features 120 golfers from 39 countries and territories competing in a four-round, 72-hole stroke play format.
On the second day, players faced strong winds that affected their performances. Defending champion Laophakdee began his round with a bogey but managed to recover with birdies. However, he encountered difficulties again in the back nine, finishing with a score of 1 over par 72. Despite the setbacks, he retained his lead over Moore, who closed the day at 5 under par 137.
Local golfer Ryan Sia of New Zealand made an impressive move to third place with a two-day total of 4 under par 138. Meanwhile, Zach Swanwick, also from New Zealand, secured the fourth position with a total of 3 under par 139. Thai golfer Josh Duangmani, tying for eighth place, ended the day with an even par score of 142.
Other Thai golfers, such as Setthawut Kenanan, Parin Sarasamut, and Chonchon Chokprajakchat, faced mixed results. Kenanan tied for 14th, Sarasamut for 31st, and Chokprajakchat for 38th. Unfortunately, Kittipop Chantaeng and Achalawit Anantasethakul did not make the cut for the final rounds.
The tournament's cut was set at a score of 13 over par 155, allowing 62 golfers, including five Thai players, to advance to the final rounds.