Jiyai Shin storms to record nine-stroke victory at British Open 2012
South Korean Jiyai Shin racked up her second consecutive Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) title after she grabbed a record 9-stroke victory at the Ricoh Women’s British Open 2012 on Sunday.
Shin endured a torrid start at the major battle played at Royal Liverpool Golf Club, Hoylake, United Kingdom as rough weather kept the contenders in trouble from the opening round, however, the South Korean
star held her ground till the last round and managed to post an overall 279.
The victory margin — nine strokes — is said to be the highest ever. Before this, the biggest margin was made by English Karen Stupples in the 2004 season after she grabbed a 5-stroke victory at Weetabix Women’s
British Open.
Shin, who was already in high spirits after clinching a title at the Kingsmill Championship 2012, was one of the strongest contenders at the British Open 2012.
Commentators said that winning her second straight LPGA title has boosted her confidence, as she had to battle players far stronger than her.
The field of the major event featured stars like current world number one Yani Tseng, Paula Creamer, Stacy Lewis, Suzann Pettersen, Natalie Gulbis, Na Yeon Choi and Lexi Thompson, but her game looked more solid
than ever before.
South Korean Inbee Park posted an overall 288 to finish second on the leaderboard. Park put up a tough fight in troubling weather conditions that saw gusty winds whipping through the course throughout the four
days.
American Paula Creamer also performed well once again as she finished inside the top five after carding a 289.
Sharing her thoughts about her second straight triumph on the LPGA Tour, Shin said that she is more than thrilled that she has been performing well in the current season, and hopes to carry on in the same spirit.
“I can't believe I get this again. Finally and also I'm happy to finish today because I didn't want to play until Monday. But today I played 36 holes, but finally done today,” Shin said.
The major winner surprised fans in the second round as she registered a 64. She shot six birdies, one eagle and not bogey.
Sharing her thoughts about the last day that saw players complete the last rounds, Shin said that it was hectic playing for hours.
“It was a really, really tough and long day, because I played 36 holes with rain and wind, so really hard to keep focussed. But it was work today. So I feel a little tired now”.
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