Pak Se-ri Asia golfer of the year

HONG KONG (Agencies): Korea's Pak Se-ri, whose performances in 1998 were an inspiration to Asian golfers, was named Johnnie Walker Asian Golfer of the Year on Monday.

The 21-year-old Pak is the first woman to win the award since its inception five years ago. The award was presented at the Omega Tour gala dinner.

Smashing records, Pak has had an unbelievably successful year. specifically when she won three events, including a major, in July. Her achievement earned her worldwide recognition as well as the Johnnie Walker Asian Golfer of the Month award -- also first for a woman.

Pak was the first rookie in 10 years to win a major at the LPGA Championship in May. She clinched the other major at the U.S. Women's Open by beating Jenny Chuasiripon in a dramatic 20- hole playoff in July. Pak finished second on the LPGA money list this year.