The CIMB Classic is the PGA Tour’s only stop off in Southeast Asia. The Malaysia event, which has a limited field of 78 players, is co-sanctioned by the Asian Tour so has a very intriguing field. There are 10 spots reserved for Asian Tour members, a couple of places for Malaysian players with the rest filled by PGA Tour card holders.
This is the fourth year in which the CIMB Classic has been part of the PGA Tour. In that time it has always been held around the West Course at Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club. The club has recently become the newest member of the TPC Network of courses but little has changed to the actual layout. The par 72 course still measures around the 7,000 yard mark and it is still a track where low scores are very possible.
Proving just how achievable a low score at the West Course is, Justin Thomas won last year’s renewal with a remarkable 26 under par. He managed that primarily by taking advantage of the par fives and thanks to some wonderful putting. Another way to go low in Kuala Lumpur is by hitting world class approach shots. The wet atmospheric conditions in the area mean that the greens are generally very receptive, especially for players who can hit high, floaty iron shots.
Moore at Home and In Form
You don’t have to tell Ryan Moore how to score well around the West Course. The 33-year-old American won the CIMB Classic in each of the two years that it was held at this venue and looks to be in great shape to do the treble.
Moore’s fantastic end to the last PGA Tour season was enough for him to grab the final spot in Davis Love III’s Ryder Cup team. Having initially struggled with the pressure of the event, Moore relaxed and ended up holing the winning putt for the USA. Moore recorded three finishes of eighth or better during the FedEx Cup Playoffs and providing he’s not lost his touch during the couple of weeks he’s taken off, he’ll surely challenge once more at odds of 16/1 with Betfred.
Scott Looking to Go One Better
Adam Scott was a very popular addition to the CIMB Classic field last season. The Australian played in the event back in 2010 before it was added to the PGA Tour when he finished just outside of the top 10. Scott’s next appearance in Kuala Lumpur came last year where he was at his devastating best. The former Masters champion went round in 25 under par, being pipped by Thomas by just one shot. Scott was simply brilliant at the end of the PGA Tour season so he will be very dangerous again at odds of 16/1 with BetVictor.
Grillo the Most Appealing Debutant
Emiliano Grillo was recently named the rookie of the year for the last PGA Tour season. That was a very well earned award for the Argentine who played some very good golf throughout the year. Grillo’s making his debut at the CIMB Classic but has played the course before in the Malaysian Open so could surprise the biggest names in the field at odds of 33/1 with Coral.