Arnold Claims Maiden Challenge Tour Title in France
2015-09-11 23:04:52

Scott Arnold rallied to a maiden European Challenge Tour title as the Australian toppled Dutchman Daan Huizing with an impressive back nine performance to earn a two shot victory at the Cordon Golf Open.

The former World Amateur Number One entered the day one shot off Huizing’s lead but an impressive three under back nine earned him a two under par 68 and a first title on European soil.

The 28 year old was three shots back when he reached the turn but his playing partner from the Netherlands dropped three shots in the space of four holes and Arnold capitalized in ruthless fashion with back to back birdies at the 15th and 16th.

He finished two clear of Huizing and Englishman James Robinson, who signed for a four under 66 to equal the best round of the day and finish on seven under par for the tournament, earning his best Challenge Tour finish in the process.

The day was all about Arnold, however, who made the cut at this year’s Open Championship, and he was delighted to have finally lifted a trophy in his second full season on the Challenge Tour, having played The European Tour in 2013 after coming through Qualifying School.

“It’s my first win on Challenge Tour so it’s really exciting,” said the Sydney player. “It’s my birthday next week so it’s like an early present. I have a flight to catch this afternoon, I think it’ll only hit me then.

“The more times you can put yourself into a position to win titles, the more you get used to the people and the crowds around.  ”

Three-time Challenge Tour winner Sam Walker of England was one of five players tied for fourth place on six under, as was Clement Berardo, who held the honour of being the highest-placed Frenchman.