Portland: "Pro Piano" Apichaya Yubol, a 24-year-old Thai professional golfer, has taken the solo lead at the Portland Classic following a stellar performance in the second round at the Columbia Edgewater Country Club. Yubol carded a 6-under-par 66, bringing her total to 12 under par 132, as she aims for her first LPGA title.
According to Thai News Agency, Yubol's performance in the second round was marked by seven birdies, including a streak of three consecutive birdies from holes 5 to 7, before making her only bogey on the par-4 18th hole. Her strong putting, with only 24 putts, and a solid short game have been key to her success. Yubol emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset as she heads into the final rounds of the tournament.
Close behind Yubol in the joint second-place group at 11 under par are fellow Thai golfer "Pro Mew" Pajaree Anannarukan, along with Sophia Schubert and Choi Hye-jin. Anannarukan's round mirrored Yubol's with seven birdies and a single bogey on the par-4 17th. Schubert, despite a bogey on the 13th hole, recovered with three consecutive birdies. Choi Hye-jin completed a bogey-free round, scoring birdies and an eagle from holes 5 to 7.
The group tied for fifth place at 9 under par includes Rose Zhang, Erika Hara, Morgan Matrix, Atthaya Thitikul, Ryu Hae-ran, Natalia Guseva, and Grace Kim. Each displayed strong performances to remain in contention.
First-round leader Mariel Galdiano saw a dip in form with a 71 in the second round, placing her at 8 under par and tied for 12th place. Colombian amateur Maria Jose Marin, who was initially tied for second, shot a 75, falling to 3 under par and missing the cut by a narrow margin alongside 13 other golfers.
The Thai contingent continues to hold strong positions in the tournament, with Apichaya Yubol leading, Pajaree Anannarukan tied for second, and Atthaya Thitikul tied for fifth. Unfortunately, some Thai golfers, including Ariya Jutanugarn and Pornanong Phetlam, did not pass the cut.
As the Portland Classic progresses, Apichaya Yubol remains focused on her goal, eager to secure her first LPGA title amidst a competitive field.