Pablo Larzabal won the DP World Tour Korea Championship by two shots after producing a nine-armed flying attack to knock out a high quality chasing pack.
A tight battle broke out at the Jack Nicklaus Golf Club in Korea on Sunday afternoon as Larzabal found himself a five-share share of the lead at nine-under when he reached the turn after two birdies from the lead nine.
The Spaniard slid off the top after downing his first shot of the round in the 10th but bounced back, making four birdies in the next five holes to open up a three-shot lead. He then made his way safely home to complete a 67 shutout, to finish the tournament at 12-under-par and claim his eighth DP World Tour title just two weeks before his 40th birthday.
Marcus Heiligkeld signed a fourth-round 68 to finish in a solo ten-under second place, one ahead of Park Sangyeon, Jorge Campello, Joost Luitin and Scott Jamieson.
It’s amazing. In two weeks, I’ll be 40. I’m not a long batsman,” said Larzabal, for whom it was his eighth European title, nearly a year since winning the ISPS Handa last year in Spain. Against all those 20-year-olds who hit the ball 40 yards above me, and to beat them is unbelievable. And to do that here in Korea, where we haven’t been in ten years, is amazing.”
He added, “Probably my favorite moment in the tournament was on Tuesday when I realized how good the golf course was and how it could suit my game. Then when I saw the weather on Friday afternoon, with the wind approaching, I thought I’d have a chance. I’m not the biggest hitter, but I like to play.” In windy conditions. I like to keep it low. I also like the way Jack Nicklaus designs his golf courses. It’s all about the second shot on the greens. Is it better for Korean or European golfers? I don’t know, but that’s been my week, and I’m glad To end the week with a trophy!”
For final results, click here.
Pablo Larzabal’s winning gear
Driver: Callaway Paradym Triple Diamond (10.5 degrees)
Fairway: Callaway Paradym (16.5 degrees and 18 degrees)
Utility: Callaway X Forged UT (24°)
Irons: Callaway Apex TCB (5-7), Callaway MB (8-P)
Wedges: Callaway MD4 (50°, 56°, 60°)
Racket: Odyssey White Hot Versa 7
Ball: Callaway Chrome Soft X Triple Track