Victorian Michael Curtain claimed the $110,000 John Hughes Geely WA Open at Cottesloe Golf Club in emphatic fashion with a stellar display of ball striking.
Curtain claimed an early lead over the leading pack and was never headed as he demonstrated a level of maturity far beyond a player who has never won a PGA Tour event.
Joint leader with New Zealand’s Michael Hendry heading into the final round, Curtain held his nerve when those around him struggled for control eventually finishing 16-under with a bogey free final round 67.
Hendry, who challenged among the leaders throughout the tournament, eventually tied for third with an even par 72 alongside Queensland’s Adam Blyth and Victorian Steven Jones and Anthony Brown.
Coming from three back on the final day, three-time champion Kim Felton claimed outright second at 12 under with a 68 – his best tournament result in recent years. A spectacular six iron that disappeared into the hole on the last broke him away from a bunch of players on 11 under.
“If you offered me a second at the start of the week I probably would have taken it given the amount of tournament practise I’ve had recently,” Felton said.
Curtain, who will be heading back to Europe for the second stage of Tour school in Spain in mid November after a tough rookie year has a renewed sense of confidence.
“It has been a tough slog – I feel as if I’ve been close for so many years but not been able to finish off when I’ve been in contention,” an emotional Curtain said.
“This means so much to me – I thought of winning so many times throughout the round but kept telling myself not to think about.”
He managed to keep his emotions under control but finally let go after a birdie on the 17th – “That was when the reality of the situation really got to me,” he said.
After three front-nine birdies on holes four, six and eight he made five straight pars before collecting two more birdies on the way home.
“Everything is a bit overwhelming at the moment but this win opens up a lot of doors – entry into the Australian Masters and the Australian Open - even though I’m not sure whether I’ll be back in time from Spain.”
He said it has been hard few years knowing he could do well but somehow not being able to make it happen.
“To do what I did today - not hitting a single bogey - was pretty pleasing. I still can’t believe it has finally happened.”
The premier of Western Australia, Colin Barnett was on hand to present Michael with the Paxton Trophy and the winner’s cheque.
The Cottesloe Golf Club cannot be praised enough for hosting what has been a hugely successful event. The golf course was as good as any seen on the Australasian Tour and a credit to head superintendant Simon Bourne and his team. General Manager - Brad White, President - John Parkinson and their tournament committee have worked tirelessly to ensure the tournament was enjoyed by the players and general public.
The tour now heads south to Bunbury Golf Course in WA’s scenic south west for the Laurance Scrap Metals WA PGA Championship.