Thaindian News

Shiga (Japan), Sep 24 (IANS) Indian golfer Anirban Lahiri received a welcome boost ahead of his campaign at this week’s Asia-Pacific Panasonic Open when it was announced that Panasonic has signed the 24-year-old up as their sporting ambassador.

Lahiri, who won his maiden Asian Tour title at the same title sponsored event in India earlier this year, said he was delighted to be associated with one of the leading electronics brands in the world.

“It’s a huge privilege and honour to be associated with such a great company. Panasonic is a global leader in electronics and I’m glad to be a part of it,” said Lahiri.

The Indian is determined to repay the faith that Panasonic has in him and knows that there is no better time to do it than at this week’s ¥150,000,000 (approximately $1.7 million) event that is jointly sanctioned by the Asian Tour and Japan Golf Tour.

“When somebody mentions Panasonic Open, it brings back positive memories. A lot of players win and then there’s a big gap. I want to keep that continuity and positivity going especially this week,” said Lahiri.

Lahiri, who carded a two-over-par 73 in his opening round, signing for a 69 to ease into the weekend rounds alongside star attraction and fellow Panasonic ambassador Ryo Ishikawa of Japan. He added a third round 72 to be tied 28th.

“There was not much golf to be played on Tuesday and Wednesday because of the weather so I didn’t practice much. It took me awhile to get comfortable with my swing as well as the golf course. It is good that I played very solid today as I’ve been hitting it really good and putting well,” said Lahiri.

“Ryo Ishikawa has been a pioneer for golf in Japan and youngsters all over the world. It feels good to be under the same umbrella as him and I’m happy that we are both playing in the weekend rounds.”