Late birdie surge secures Prince’s Grant Amateur Invitational Tournament victory for Springs golfer
The 26-year-old made birdie on holes 15, 17 and 18.
Gauteng golfer Christy Raper fired off three birdies in his last four holes to claim the prestigious Prince’s Grant National Amateur Invitational Tournament title last Wednesday.
The 26-year-old was locked in a three-way tie for the lead at even par after the 14th hole, but produced scintillating golf when it mattered most, making birdie on holes 15, 17 and 18. He signed for a final round 71, adding to earlier rounds of 76, 69 and 69 for a three-under-par total for the tournament.
“I knew I needed to make one or two birdies down the stretch to have a chance. My hands began to shake a bit, but I stayed calm and committed to every shot,” said Raper.
“The course was difficult but in great condition. The first couple of days were tough due to the wind, but I tried to enjoy myself.”
The tournament, hosted for the 24th time at Prince’s Grant Golf Estate, brought together 51 of South Africa’s top amateur golfers, all hosted by local residents. Raper joins an impressive list of past champions at the coastal venue, which includes Major winner Charl Schwartzel and European Tour winner Brandon Stone.
“This is one of the best tournaments of the year. It’s amazing – I can’t describe how good it feels to win,” said Raper, who is continuing a strong run of form.
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The youngster from New State Areas in Springs has been building momentum throughout the season. He claimed the Royal Oak Country Club Championship in March and recently captained the Ekurhuleni Inter-Provincial B team to victory at the GolfSA South African Inter-Provincial Tournament at Bryanston Country Club. The team also featured last year’s champion at Prince’s Grant, Marno Lange.
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Fellow Ekurhuleni golfer Nicko Venter finished runner-up at level par after rounds of 74, 69, 72 and 73.
Ballito’s Matthew Gouws was the top local performer. He finished one over par following steady rounds of 72, 72, 73 and 72, but placed fifth after a count-out.
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