Spargo the conqueror in Papua New Guinea

Glenelg’s Paul Spargo has come from five shots behind overnight leader Brett Rankin in today’s final round to be crowned the 2012 South Pacific Export Papua New Guinea Open Champion.

Spargo finished with a closing round of four under par 68 to finish on nine under for the tournament. Overnight leader Brett Rankin finished in a tie for second with Ian Esson who chipped in on his final hole to finish one shot behind Spargo.

For Spargo though it was a win he thought may not happen considering a poor start to the final round. “Unfortunately I bogeyed my opening hole and when I turned in even par, winning never really crossed my mind. I made a good birdie on 11 and when I made three birdies in row on 14,15 and 16, I knew I was in with a chance. I was pretty nervous waiting for the final group to finish, but I can’t describe how good I am feeling at the moment. It’s just amazing”.

Unfortunately for Rankin it was the one that got away. Two bogies on the final two holes is never a great way to finish, but he was very gracious in defeat. “It has been an amazing week and just so happy with the way that I have played. The hard work is finally paying off and I am really looking forward to the remainder of the season.

Queenslander Michael Wright finished in fourth place after a final round 72 with a further shot back to fifth placed Kevin Conlong who enjoyed the best finish of his young professional career.

The next event on the Queensland Sunshine Tour will be at the Blackwater Pro Am to be played on the 16th and 17th May. The Pro Am will again be part of the Runge Mining Town Series with the six events offering professionals more than $120,000 in prizemoney.

Fellow Glenelg member, Jason Norris, finished in a tie for 19th position.

Story courtesy of PGA of Australia.

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