A painful final hole bogey to give up victory at the Thailand Golf Championship was somewhat soothed for Marcus Fraser by the fact he earned a spot at the 2015 Open at St Andrews for his runner-up finish.

Continuing a remarkable comeback from wrist surgery earlier in the year Fraser was in the mix from the outset at the Amata Spring Country Club and led or shared the lead at each of the 18 holes on Sunday.

But a missed par putt at the final hole handed England’s Lee Westwood the title after he had earlier toured the difficult course in 67 strokes.

For Fraser the finish was bitter sweet as he failed to claim his second Asian Tour title but did earn a spot in the 2015 Open Championship at St Andrews.

"That’s why I came up here – to try and get one of those spots at The Open at St Andrews next year, so it’s great, I’m excited," he told the Asian Tour’s website.

"The Open at St Andrews in 2005 was the first Major I ever played. I remember I was jumping out of my skin on the first tee, but hopefully I’ll be a bit calmer next year.

"I’m really looking forward to getting back to The Open. It’s my favourite tournament – it’s the best tournament in the world."

Scott Hend also earned a place in the field at St Andrews after finishing 5th on his own courtesy of a final round of 3-under 69.

Terry Pilkadaris played well in Thailand to finish in a share of 10th place and likely secure his card for 2015 thanks to the $17,600 cheque.

Having fallen outside the top 60 on the Order of Merit in recent weeks the West Australian’s performance pushed him up to 43rd on the list and with just one event remaining that should be enough.

There are 12 Australians in the top 60 as the season nears it’s end with Scott Hend likely to take top Australian honours having surpassed Cameron Smith this week.

Hend has amassed $428,820 for the season, $1,344 more than Smith.

Related Links

Scores / Thailand Golf Championship Results