Rio in mind

Ace Bangladesh golfer Siddikur Rahman will look to have a good outing at the Panasonic Open Golf Championship beginning today in Japan to get back into contention for a qualifying spot for August's Rio Olympic Games.

The two-time Asian Tour winner, who has just slipped off the 60-man eligibility list this week, knows this will be his penultimate opportunity to get back into the fold.

After having spent a patchy season on the Asian Tour so far, the 31-year-old golfer regained some confidence by winning the bti Open, a co-sanctioned event of PGTI and BPGA, at home earlier this month. He had to dig deep and engage in a play-off against compatriot Sajib Ali before grabbing his first international title in more than two years.

The Bangladeshi golfer admitted that he feels much better after winning the title.

"The win two weeks ago has really helped me gain more confidence. It was a great week. I hope to utilise that confidence for this week. I've been struggling the past two years. I wanted to win a tournament and it finally happened," Siddikur was quoted as saying by Asiantour.com.

However, the challenge in the 1.27-million-dollar Panasonic Open will be far greater, with the presence of some stalwarts from the Asian Tour and Japan Tour. But Siddikur is intent on putting a good show, with the Olympics in sight.

"If I can get into the Olympics then it will be good for me and my country. If I play well then the result will help me achieve that dream. I wish to represent my country at the Olympics so hopefully I can start getting good results," said Siddikur.

The cut-off date for the ranking of the Olympic Games is July 11, and Siddikur will get one more Asian Tour event -- The Mauritius Open in middle of May -- to ensure his qualification.