Sep 18, 2012 12:56 AM EDT
Shin edges clear of storm and rest of the field to win British Open

Shin Jiyai breezed to victory in the storm-hit women's British Open at the Royal Liverpool golf course in Hoylake, England.

The South Korean golfer carded one-over-par 73 in the final round, but that was enough to give Shin her second major by a massive nine shots.

She was the only player to post an under-par score in the tournament, finishing off on nine-under 279.

Compatriot Park Inbee birdied the 18th hole to finish in second place on a level par score for the four rounds. American Paula Creamer took third with a par score of 72 -- the joint best round of a tough final day.

The weather had been a problem all through the week with strong gusts touching speeds of 60 miles per hour leading to suspension of second round's play on Friday. As a result players were forced to complete their third rounds on Sunday before a quick turnaround for the fourth.

Aussie Karrie Webb, the seven-time major champion, could not hold her composure for long as the weather played havoc in Hoylake. Her title challenge diminished during her final round 82.

Creamer was all praise for Jiyai. "It is so hard out there. It just shows what Jiyai is doing. That's pretty good golf out there," she told the BBC. "I think we should all pat ourselves on the back."

Finishing in near darkness, the victory and the £266,000 cheque completed a remarkably impressive week for 24-year-old Shin, who has now won 10 times on the LPGA Tour.

"That was a long, long day and very tough," she said. "I have never played in such bad weather, but I managed to stay focused and now I'm just so excited.

"Winning at Sunningdale four years ago was my fist big win and changed my life. Now I have even more great British Open memories."

Shin, who posted a record 64 in the second round, carded a one-under-par 71 in the third round but the South Korean's lead was cut down to three by Webb, who shot a 68 to put herself back in contention.

The 15-year-old Lydia Ko from New Zealand, who became the youngest winner on the LPGA Tour at last month's Canadian Open, took the amateur prize, the Smyth Salver. The teenager shot 72 and 78 to finish in the top 20.

Shin's win has completed an Asian clean-sweep of this year's four women majors.

Loading ...
 PREVIOUS POST
NEXT POST 

featured articles    

Killerspin Revolution SVR Table Review

Tips for Returning to Sport Safely During the Pandemic

Maven Acquires Sports Illustrated, Taps Ross Levinsohn as CEO

How You Can Save Money on Kids' Sports Clothes Using Discount Coupons

Ways to Keep Your Body Physically and Mentally Healthy

How to Choose the Best Catcher's Bag