Guntaek Koh of Korea delivered a career-defining performance at the New Zealand Open presented by Sky Sport, shooting a course-record-equalling 10-under-par 61 on the Remarkables course at Millbrook. This remarkable round, which included an eagle, nine birdies, and just one bogey, propelled Koh into a three-shot lead over Australian James Marchesani, who scored a 65.
Koh, now 17-under-par, is joined at the top of the leaderboard by fellow Asian Tour members. China's Bai Zhengkai secured third place with a 64, while reigning Asian Tour Order of Merit champion John Catlin and South Africa's Ian Snyman trail by one more stroke. Catlin achieved a 64 on the Coronet course, while Snyman carded a 65 on Remarkables.
Overnight leader Harrison Crowe from Australia slipped to joint 12th after a 71, six shots off the lead.
Koh, a proven winner on home soil with a victory at the 2023 Shinhan Donghae Open, is determined to make his mark internationally. He credited his strong iron play for his success, stating, "My iron play was really good, it helped me attack the greens. That’s what got me into this position."
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Looking ahead, Koh emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset to carry his momentum into the weekend. Notably, he was unaware of matching the course record during play, saying, "It’s very meaningful. I didn’t even know I shot the course record."
Bai Zhengkai, who graduated from this year's Qualifying School, highlighted improvements in his putting as key to his strong performance. He noted, "Putting was my weakness before but now I am able to make some putts."
Ian Snyman, a form player last year, continues to impress and enjoys the hospitality in Queenstown, feeling at home with his host family.