Ryder Cup dream inspires Bourdy to Wales victory
FRANCE’S Gregory Bourdy revealed a place on Europe’s Ryder Cup team was at the forefront of his mind as he sunk a 30 foot birdie putt on the final hole at Celtic Manor to win the ISPS Handa Wales Open yesterday.
Tied with overnight leader Peter Uihlein after 15 holes, the world No173 birdied the final three to end his week eight under par and won by two shots in the first qualifying event for next year’s Ryder Cup.
And the 31-year-old admitted the thought of making captain Paul McGinley’s side for the biennial showdown with America was all the motivation he required to seal his fourth European tour win.
“I was thinking about the Ryder Cup on the 18th so I am so proud to win this trophy,” said Bourdy. “It was an amazing round. I made an amazing finish with three birdies in a row and I am so happy.
“I will remember the finish on this great course for a long time.”
Elsewhere, five-time Major runner-up Colin Montgomerie won the Senior Masters at Woburn Golf Club by six shots.
The Scot carded 10 under par to claim his first win on the European senior tour, with Spain’s Martin Miguel Angel and England’s Paul Wesselingh tied for second place.
And Montgomerie, who turned 50 in June, is thrilled by the start he has made to his rookie season on the tour.
“It is like a new lease of life turning 50 in golf,” he said.
“I can’t think of any other sports where you take a new step on in your career at such an age.”