Cameron Smith lifts the Australian Amateur Stroke Play title – Golf update
Aussie Smith Cameron took over a determined David Coupland in a stellar performance to lift the 2011 Australian Amateur Stroke Play title. Smith defeated the Englishman when he birdied the first playoff hole to seize a classic victory.
Coupland who had been leading the previous two days as he gained convincing leads over New Zealand’s Ben Campbell and Smith, fired a 7-under for 65 on the final day to exert pressure on the young Aussie. Smith overcame the challenge by pulling in birdies
on both the 17th and 18th at the last moment to force a playoff. It was an amazing display of concentration and strong nerves on the part of Smith who finally grabbed the championship title here at the majestic Victoria Golf Club.
It marked the first big title win for the young Aussie who fell short of words on his remarkable achievement. “I’m lost for words,” says Smith, “I held some clutch putts there toward the end and that kept me in there with a chance and got me across the line.
To win the Australian Amateur Stroke title, well as I’ve said, I’m lost for words really.”
The unlucky Coupland had displayed precision golf throughout the tournament and appeared as if he had been playing on this course for ages. He even threatened the course record of 63 at one point. Smith had rounds of 61, 71, 70, 68 and finished 13-under
while Coupland had rounds of 72, 71, 67, 65 both finishing at 275. Smith’s six footer birdie played the pivotal role on the 17th hole, when he landed in a bunker.
“It was certainly a tight situation over the last few holes,” said Smith. “This is easily the biggest thrill so far in my career to win this title. I’m feeling confident and will head into the match play with plenty of confidence.”
A jubilant Smith will now be a part of the 32 player contingent going into the Match Play phase of the championship in Victoria Golf Club in Melbourne.
New Zealand’s Ben Campbell, who was leading the opening round of the championship, finished 3-under for 69 and will pose a formidable challenge to the young Smith in the upcoming Match Play phase, along with Coupland.
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