Australia’s David Gleeson ended his six-year title drought with a wire-to-wire success at the Macau Open yesterday. The Taipei-based winner nailed his second straight two-under 69 in the final round for a Macau Open tournament record total of 18-under 266 at the Macau Golf and Country Club.
Gleeson, who won the 2002 Volvo China Open, bettered the previous total of 268 set by American Jason Knutzon in 2004.
The Australian walked away with the top prize of US$79,250 and rises to 21st spot on the Asian Tour’s Order of Merit.
“I told my caddie [Sanker Ganesan] at the start of the tournament that I wanted to win this week by as many shots as possible. I also told myself that if I don’t go for it I won’t have a chance, so I’m happy that I went for it this week,” Gleeson said.
Taiwan’s Lin Wen-tang produced a 66 to claim second place, while compatriot Kao Bo-song was even-par for the day and finished in lone third spot.
Filipino Mars Pucay shot a 65 and ended his week in joint fourth spot together with England’s Yasin Ali, who posted a 68 for a 271 total.
Gleeson had to fend off a strong charge from the Taiwanese duo of Kao and Lin to nail his second success on the Asian Tour.
He started the day with a dropped shot on the opening hole and was level with Kao, who had birdied the second hole, but bounced back with five birdies against two bogeys.
“I reached the little goals that I had set all day, which proved to be the key. On the 18th hole, I just had to avoid the water and I knew I had it once the ball landed on the green,” said Gleeson, who two-putted for par and the win.
Taiwan’s Lin, who won the Asian Tour International in March, was pleased with his runners-up performance.
“I have one win and two runners-up finishes now. This is shaping up to be a very good season for me. I am very pleased. I’ve always put myself in contention and I hope to keep the momentum going into the remaining events,” Lin said.
Kao, who chased down the champion in the early stages of the final round, was satisfied with his final day effort of 71.
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