Online Reporter
Takudzwa Chitsiga
NATHAN Van Rooyen bagged his first win on the amateur circuit after his five-stroke victory in the Zimbabwe Amateur Championship at Chapman Golf Club yesterday.
Van Royen was part of a huge field that took part in the country’s second biggest amateur tournament.
The 15-year-old Royal Harare top amateur fired a brilliant final round of 77 to add to his 72, 78 and 66 and in the first three rounds.
Van Rooyen finished ahead of Keegan Shutt who had rounds of 73, 76, 72 and 75 for a total 220 as Munesu Chimhini was third.
Van Rooyen said he was looking forward to more tournaments.
“I am happy to win this one because I think it’s the biggest in Zimbabwe on the amateur circuit and I am excited to win it.
“ I think my irons were really good in this tournament and I didn’t miss too many greens so that gave me a lot of chances for a birdie.
“My tee shots were great in the opening round when I took the lead and I managed to maintain the momentum,” said Van Rooyen.
Chimhini was a point behind second-placed Shutt on 221 total after rounds of 72, 74, 74 and 79 as Shijie Li was fourth.
Michael Wallace, Tanaka Chatora, Mudiwa Chikochi completed the top seven respectively.
United States-based Margaret Nyamukondiwa was the best placed girl. She beat several boys with scores of 73, 76, 79 and 74.
Zimbabwe Golf Association president, Blessing Gandawa, was happy with the level of competition and praised the upcoming golfers.
“The tournament went on very well and I am happy with the turnout. There was a high level of competitiveness as we had six foreigners taking part.
“We are looking forward to more tournaments,’ said Gandawa.
