Successful golf championship

Following SA golfers grow the game, week ending 11 April, Moore ended up winning and beating Ulrich van den Berg in a five-hole playoff at the Country Club Johannesburg in Woodmead.Michael Vlismas of the PGA said Moore and Van Den Berg finished regulation play tied for the lead on 15 under par.

“Moore closed with a 67 and Van Den Berg a 68,” he explained.

“It took five trips back to the par-five 18th before Moore clinched the biggest victory of his career, and after Van Den Berg had two clear opportunities to win but missed a two-foot and then four-foot putt for victory on both occasions.”

Vlismas said Moore dedicated his win to his mom who passed away over a year ago.

“It’s been a long time since I’ve done one of these prize-giving events,” said Moore.

“It’s special. I was just happy to get into the playoff. To play an extra five holes and come out on the winning end of it, I’m really chuffed.

“I feel bad for Ulrich because he’s a great player and has been playing well, but I’ve also been knocking on the door, and to finally win a big summer event on the Sunshine Tour is an incredible feeling.”

Vlismas said it was a fantastic final round in which overnight leader Oliver Bekker, made back-to-back bogeys on 16 and 17 for a 73 and a finish of 13 under par and a share of fourth.

“His playing partner JJ Senekal added to the drama with a round where he managed to save par on the back nine from some almost impossible situations,” said Vlismas.

“He eventually signed for a 70 to take third place on 14 under par.”