Golf Results - 01 May 2013

In the United States, America’s Billy Horschel charged to victory for the first time on the US PGA Tour when he won the Zurich Classic of New Orleans by a single stroke over compatriot DA Points.

Horschel began the final round two strokes off the pace, but after rainy weather provided lush playing conditions the young champion unleashed an impressive display of his golfing talents. Carding a total of nine birdies on Sunday, six of them in succession, Horschel held his nerve and birdied the final hole to clinch his first PGA title. The young American carded a final round score of 64, or eight-under-par.

Speaking to the media after his maiden victory, an emotional Horschel thanked the many people who have supported him in his young and promising career. Sunday’s final round saw a great performance from the young American despite relentless pressure from more experienced competitors that tested the champion’s nerves from the first tee.

Horschel had faced stiff competition from DA Points during the closing holes of the final round. With just three holes to go, Points managed to tie for the lead – but Horschel’s birdie at the last took his opponent out of the running and forced him to settle for second place. Kyle Stanley, also of the United States, took third place.

The European Tour travelled to Seoul, South Korea last week, where the Ballantine’s Championship was won by Australia’s Brett Rumford in a playoff against compatriot Marcus Fraser.

Rumford was widely expected to win the tournament after his impressive performance on the front nine. After six birdies on the front nine, Rumford teed off at the 17th hole with a two stroke advantage – but an errant shot at the eleventh hour allowed Fraser to tie for the lead after regulation play had ended.

As the crowd looked on, Rumford regained his composure to win in style with an eagle at the first playoff hole. Sunday’s victory mark’s the Australian’s fourth victory on the European Tour.

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