What Is 2007 All Thailand Golf Tour

Overview

The 2007 All Thailand Golf Tour marked the fifth season of Thailand's premier domestic professional golf circuit. Organized under the Royal Thailand Golf Association, the tour aimed to promote local talent and strengthen the country's golfing infrastructure.

With a growing number of events and rising prize funds, the 2007 season reflected the increasing professionalism of Thai golf. International players were allowed to compete, but the focus remained on developing homegrown champions.

• 12 tournaments were held across Thailand between January and December 2007, including events in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Hua Hin.
• The total prize money for the season was approximately 36 million Thai baht, averaging about 3 million baht per event.
• The tour was sanctioned by the Royal Thailand Golf Association, ensuring adherence to national and international golf standards.
• Notable Thai golfers such as Thongchai Jaidee and Thaworn Wiratchant participated, boosting the tour's visibility and competitiveness.
• Each tournament followed a standard 72-hole stroke play format, with cuts after 36 holes to determine the weekend field.

How It Works

The All Thailand Golf Tour operated as a series of standalone tournaments, each contributing to an overall Order of Merit based on prize money earned.

• Season Structure: The 2007 season spanned the full calendar year, with events scheduled monthly to avoid conflicts with international tours. This allowed local pros to compete consistently.
• Eligibility: Players needed a professional license from the Royal Thailand Golf Association or an invitation to participate, ensuring a high level of competition.
• Scoring System: Each tournament used 72-hole stroke play with a cut after 36 holes; only the top 60 players and ties advanced to the final rounds.
• Prize Distribution: Winners typically earned between 1.5 and 2 million baht per event, with smaller amounts distributed down to 60th place.
• Order of Merit: The season-long ranking was based on cumulative earnings, with the top player receiving a bonus and recognition as the tour champion.
• International Participation: While focused on Thai players, the tour allowed foreign professionals to enter, increasing competitiveness and exposure for local talent.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the 2007 All Thailand Golf Tour with other regional circuits during the same year.

The 2007 All Thailand Golf Tour was modest in scale compared to international tours but played a crucial role in nurturing Thai golfers. Its prize money and event count were lower, but it provided essential competitive experience for players aiming to join larger circuits.

Why It Matters

The 2007 season was pivotal in establishing a sustainable domestic golf structure in Thailand, laying the foundation for future growth. It helped bridge the gap between amateur play and international competition.

• Player Development: The tour gave emerging Thai golfers like Kasemchai Bowden regular competitive opportunities, improving their world rankings.
• National Pride: Success on the tour boosted domestic interest in golf, encouraging youth participation and media coverage.
• Pathway to Asian Tour: Strong performances allowed players to qualify for Asian Tour events, expanding their professional horizons.
• Economic Impact: Host cities benefited from tourism and local spending during tournament weekends, especially in resort areas like Hua Hin.
• Sponsorship Growth: Increased corporate involvement, including from Singha Corporation, signaled growing confidence in Thai golf.
• Infrastructure: The tour encouraged investment in golf course maintenance and tournament logistics across the country.

By fostering talent and increasing visibility, the 2007 All Thailand Golf Tour played a key role in Thailand's emergence as a golfing nation in Southeast Asia.