Bryan Saltus of the US fired a five-under 67 to win the inaugural Cambodian Open yesterday, dedicating his first Asian Tour title to the rock group the Grateful Dead, of whom he is a fanatical follower.
Saltus ended with a four-round total of 17-under 271 to win by three strokes from third-round leader Adam Groom of Australia (71), with the Thai pair Prom Meesawat (70) and Thaworn Wiratchant (70) a further three shots back.
Saltus won US$47,550 and moved to 30th place in the Tour Order of Merit.
PHOTO: AP
"This is awesome," Saltus said. "I would like to dedicate this win to the Grateful Dead as they have inspired me all the way. Siem Reap is right up my alley so I've enjoyed my time on and off the course this week."
Saltus has been to 153 concerts by the Grateful Dead who are known for their dedicated followers, known as "Dead Heads."
He birdied the first three holes, continuing the hot streak with his new putter that proved decisive.
"My putting has been the winning formula this week," Saltus said. "I had a good start with three birdies and my confidence carried on after that. I told my caddie that if I win, I would buy her a motorbike and now that I've done it, I will get her a brand new motorbike."
Saltus celebrated his win by jumping into the water adjacent to the final hole.
Groom and Saltus both had five birdies in the final round, but the Australian was let down by four bogies.
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