Norris grabs Alfred Dunhill Championship crown

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (AFP) — South African Shaun Norris, who began his final round six shots off the pace, fired a five under 67 on Sunday to win the European Tour’s Alfred Dunhill Championship at Leopard Creek Country Club in Malelane.

The 42-year-old from Johannesburg finished on 275, 13 under over a course that borders the world-renowned Kruger National Park game reserve in the north east of South Africa.

He finished one shot ahead of compatriot Ryan van Velzen (72), John Parry (69) from England and Swede Marcus Kinhult (74), who had taken a two-stroke advantage into the final round.

Norris eagled two, double bogeyed seven and birdied two other holes to turn in 33, two under. Then, three birdies in five holes from 11 set him up for his second European Tour title.

Van Velzen needed a birdie four on 18 to win the tournament, but his ambitious second shot sped across an island green, found water and he bogeyed the hole.

Norris completed his round well before other challengers, allowing him to spend time with wife Candice and go to the practice area, before appearing stunned when told he was the champion.

“Words cannot describe this victory. It has been a very up and down year for me so thanks to my wife and family for keeping it all together,” he said after lifting the trophy.

“I did not believe 13 under would be enough to win. As I began the final round I thought that if I could finish on 14 or 15 under I might have a chance.”

“To win at Leopard Creek is truly special. It is a phenomenal golf course and when we professionals come here each December it is always in immaculate condition.”