Jiyai Shin comes from behind to capture the HSBC Women’s Champions

By Lorna Campbell

Tanah Merah Country Club, Sunday, March 8, 2009 – Perfect weather saw a perfect round by Korean sensation Jiyai Shin who shot another bogey-free round of 66 to capture the HSBC Women’s Champions by two strokes.

A first year member of the LPGA, Shin started the day with four birdies on the first four holes and went on to shoot another two birdies on the back nine. Already a household name on the LPGA Tour before she joined it officially this year, Shin adds this victory to her three other LPGA Tour victories including the 2008 RICOH Womens British Open, Mizuno Classic and ADT Championship.

Shin talks about her surprise win.

“Actually my tournament goal was to be in the top 10 because I missed the cut in Hawaii and I think that upset me.Yesterday I played very well so I thought I had a chance to make top 10, not win. After making birdies on the first four holes, I was very surprised. So yeah, I feel very happy now.”

The Champion of Champions title also makes Shin a 2009 Rolex First-Time Winner and signals a great start to Shins first year on the LPGA Tour.

Third round leader Katherine Hull was not able to maintain her momentum and played 2-over 74 for the day putting her two shots back and having to settle for second place at 9-under for the tournament.
She was pragmatic about her performance.

“I had a good start on the front nine and was happy with it and unfortunately I bogeyed on 10 and made a really bad choice on 13 and broke my game plan. I got what I deserved I guess and learnt the hard way. It will make me stronger I think and hopefully work harder.
I am disappointed that I didnt win but Ji Yai played well today and well deserved so full credit to her.”

Defending champion Lorena Ochoa played a respectable 2-under par 70 and finished joint 6th for the tournament.

“You always need to be positive and I’ve been doing this a few years now and I feel more comfortable every time,” said Ochoa. “And when you make a mistake, you have to forget about it and keep it going and thats the way I do it. I had an opportunity to come back and I tried to make birdies early today but it didn’t work for me but I just kept working hard all day and was happy with my finish and its always good when you get a top ten.”

Local amateur Joey Poh could not put together another strong round and shot a final round of 84. She was humble about her experience and cherished the chance to be part of the tournament.

“It was a very good learning experience and even though I didnt play well, I learnt a lot from my flight mates and I really appreciate it. Its shown me that I have not done enough preparation. I must double up my training. It is still my dream to play on the Tour one day.”