Golf: Serial runner-up Strydom wins at last on European Tour

MALELANE, South Africa – South African Ockie Strydom put 19 second-place finishes in his career behind him on Sunday, as he triumphed on the DP World Tour for the first time.

The 37-year-old carded a final-round three-under 69 at Leopard Creek Country Club to win the Alfred Dunhill Championship with an 18-under 270 total.

Spaniard Adrian Otaegui birdied the final hole to come second after a closing 68 – for a total of 272 – on a course that borders the world-renowned Kruger National Park game reserve.

Laurie Canter from England fired a 64, including an eagle and seven birdies, to come third, one stroke behind Otaegui.

In a break with the tradition of wearing trousers in European Tour events, competitors were permitted to don shorts to be more comfortable in the 33 deg C heat.

Strydom was one of many golfers who took advantage of the relaxation of the dress code, with shorts first permitted at the same tournament three years ago.

He was overcome by his first key title, simply calling his success “nice”.

“I am sure my wife and parents are at home crying. Special thanks to my caddie,” he said.

“I love Leopard Creek because I feel so calm in the bush. Congratulations to those who prepared this course, which was in magnificent condition all week.”

Level with Scotland’s Scott Jamieson at the start of the final round, Strydom had a difficult front nine that ended with a double-bogey six that left him one over for the round.

But the South African then reeled off four birdies in five holes to take a three-stroke advantage before parring the remaining four holes.

Sensing he was about to end a run of second places, he took no chances on the final hole and its island green.

He took an iron off the tee, laid his second shot short of the water, found the green in three and two-putted for a victory. He was left drenched as champagne was sprayed at him. AFP