SINGAPORE – Having spent the past few weeks away from his family, Thai golfer Kiradech Aphibarnrat was only too glad to be reunited with them in Singapore this week as he competes at the Porsche Singapore Classic.

The presence of his wife Tunyatorn Chaiyarat and mother Supunnikar had a catalytic effect, inspiring him to an opening round of eight-under 64 at the US$2.5 million (S$3.36 million) DP World Tour event on March 21, giving him the joint lead with Englishman Jordan Smith and Malaysian Gavin Green at Laguna National Golf Resort Club.