Jutanugarn has been performing at a high level in Majors this year.
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American Mo Martin is third on 11 under.Jutanugarn, seeking to become the first player from Thailand to win a major title, said: ‘I know how to play under pressure. “I did, so I’m very proud of myself”.
She finished at 16-under 272 on the Marquess Course, the hilly, forest layout that is a big change from the usual seaside layouts in the tournament rotation. Ive just got to get over it..
“I didn’t drive the ball as well today, so you know, I only made three birdies, but I managed to make some really good pars out there”.
Thailand’s Ariya Jutanugarn in action during day three of the Women’s British Open at Woburn Golf Club in Woburn, England, Saturday, July 30, 2016. Jutanugarn closed with a par, and Lee made a bogey for a 73.
Lee matched the tournament record Thursday with an opening 62 and also led after the second round.
“I think it’s no pressure for me because only thing I want to is have fun”, Jutanugarn said. “That’s all I had”.
A household name back home in Thailand, Jutanugarn grew up admiring Tiger Woods – as she pointed out, he has Thai heritage – and she has already carved out her own little bit of history.
“I really get nervous, especially being my first time leading”, Jutanugarn said that afternoon at Rancho Mirage.
After a meltdown over the last few holes at the ANA Inspiration in March she might well have been considered suspect in her capacity to finish things off tomorrow but three consecutive victories (admittedly not in majors) in May have given her the self-belief to get the job done and if she does then it may well open the floodgates once again.
She put the hard lessons to use in May, winning three straight events to become the LPGA Tour’s first Thai champion. I know how to be like patient. I feel like whatever is going to make me happy and easy one is like smile..
Lee, 25, had four birdies to stay in touch, while Martin, who missed her defence past year due to injury, also had four birdies. “Apart from that I felt like I played pretty decent, I just didn’t hole any putts”.
The top-ranked Ko was tied for 27th at 3 under after a 69. The American won in 2013 at St. Andrews.
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Having started the day two shots clear, her advantage was extended to six by the time she birdied the the long second and short sixth and she looked to be striding confidently to victory.
