Purchase claims dramatic victory for maiden pro title

Warwick Purchase’s first-ever win – both as a professional and as an amateur – came in some dramatic fashion at Glenvista Country Club on Wednesday.

On a tournament total of seven-under-par 209, Purchase, Ulrich van den Berg and Leon Vorster tied for the top spot, necessitating a play-off to decide the victor.

“It was a great day,” said an elated Purchase. “As I said yesterday, I just wanted to go out and enjoy the moment; put as many golf shots as possible. Obviously, I’m very excited. This is my first win both as an amateur and as a professional. I can’t thank Betway and the Big Easy Tour enough for setting up a platform for us to realise our dreams.

“I was very nervous going against Ulrich, which is natural, I think. Ulrich is a fierce competitor and he has proven it over the years. But I just needed to do what I needed to do and that is what I did and I am happy to come out on top.”

Even as he narrowly lost in the play-off, Van den Berg will be satisfied with his effort this week and the same could be said for Vorster. Both players showed tremendous tenacity but the golf gods were on Purchase’s side.

The Benoni Country Club member turned pro just last year and played himself to 29th on the Order of Merit last season. It was no small achievement for a rookie. With a win already secured in the current season, the East Rand native will now look to add more silverware to his cabinet and hopefully by the end of the season, earn his Sunshine Tour playing card for the following campaign.

The Betway Big Easy Tour is the Sunshine Tour’s development circuit where the top 12 on the Order of Merit will earn privileges to compete on the main Tour.

Scores

209 - Warwick Purchase

209 - Ulrich van den Berg, Leon Vorster

210 - Samuel Simpson

211 - Luke Trocado, Regan Steyn, Vaughn van Deventer

212 - Jacquin Hess, Xander Basson, Stals Swart, Christian Kriek, Keenan Davidse, David Amm

213 - Keelan Africa, Christopher Long

214 - Eric Wowor

215 - Kieron van Wyk, Ruan de Smidt, Dayne Moore

216 - Andrew Williamson, Karabo Mokoena, Jaden Deltel, Reece McKain, Nikhil Rama, Joe Knox

217 - Henning du Plooy, Slade Pickering, Kyle Lucas

218 - Lyle Pedro, Andre van Dyk

220 - Sentanio Minnie