Henry Epstein has come from five shots behind today at the Peregian Springs Open to be crowned joint winner with overnight leader Kurt Carlson in the 2012 Ridges Peregian Springs Series.

Carlson started the final round with a four shot lead but could only manage a two over par 74 which opened the door for the chasing group. The chasers came thick and fast but it would be only Epstein applying the pressure over the closing holes. With Epstein closing out with a final round 69, joint winners of this year’s Ridges Peregian Springs Series were declared with Carlson becoming the first player to win back to back series.

Both Carlson and Epstein finished on four over par for the seven rounds played, in a series that will go down as one of the most difficult for scoring since its inaugural event 11 year’s ago. Unfortunately Tony Carolan who was the closest to Carlson heading into today’s final round could only match Carson’s 74 to finish in a tie for fourth with Luke Marino, a shot behind Grant Scott who finished in third.

Conditions proved difficult throughout the week, but as is always the case consistency proved to be the winning formula for both Carlson and Epstein. “It is a great feeling to go back to back in such a great series, especially considering the standard of professionals that have taken part this year. Last year was a little bit of a surprise win for me, and I have kept that winning feeling with me for the last 12 months. I am now really looking forward to heading up to Japan in a couple of weeks in the attempt to gain my playing rights for the 2013 season” Carlson explained after his round.

With the Sunshine Coast leg of the Queensland Sunshine Tour now finished, professionals will take a week off before making their way to the Gold Coast for the Queensland Round of the Jeep Tour. Professionals will tee it up over four days at the Palm Meadows and RACV Royal Pines Courses as they look to walk away with their share of the $100,000 in prizemoney up for grabs.