Macau, Oct 20 (IANS): India’s rising golfer Anirban Lahiri fired a career low nine-under-par 62 to enjoy a runner-up finish at the Venetian Macau Open in the company of his idol Arjun Atwal Sunday.

The 26-year-old Lahiri matched the nine-year-old course record held by compatriot Amandeep Johl at the Macau Golf and Country Club as he ended the week three shots behind champion Scott Hend of Australia.

“I’m really pleased. I played really good right from the start. Yesterday was a similar story but I ran into some trouble on the back nine. I’m glad I kept my cool and played solid in the end,” said Lahiri, who earned $88,000.

While his bid for a first title outside India was extended for another week, Lahiri, a three-time Asian Tour winner, was glad he teed up here after contemplating pulling out earlier.

“I’m chasing it, I’ve come close. I don’t know if I’ve done enough this week but I’m still glad with the way I’ve played the last few days. Didn’t get on to the best starts but I’m glad my golf has improved in the past few weeks,” he said.

“It’s never a bad time to play well. There are some good events coming up, CIMB Classic next week, the Hero Indian Open and then the ISPS HANDA World Cup of Golf. It gets better and better. It’ll be great to keep this form going.”

Lahiri holed a monster putt on the first hole for the first of eight birdies and made eagle on two. But what was also pleasing was the fact he played alongside 2003 Asian Tour No.1 Atwal, who finished tied 13th.

“It was awesome playing with Arjun. I looked up to him so much. He’s a great guy to know and play with. Walking down 18, I didn’t know what Scott was on and I knew I just had to make eagle."