Piyush captures maiden title at Tata Steel Amateur golf

Gurgaon: Young Piyush Sangwan captured the prestigious Tata Steel Northern India Amateur Golf Championship that culminated at the Jack Nicklaus designed Classic Golf Resort here today.

The soon to be 15-year-old shot a final round of 3-over 75 on a windy day but still managed to finish the tournament at 2-under 286, four clear of his nearest rivals -? Manav Das and Samarth Dwivedi. "I dedicate this victory to my mom and dad who have been a pillar of strength to me," said Piyush, after being crowned the champion. Manav and Samarth shot an identical 4-over 76 to finish the tournament at 290. Syed Saqib Ahmed, who had rallied brilliantly yesterday, gave up the chase on the 12th hole after a hat-trick of bogeys to be content with a fourth-place finish at 291. Bangalore lads Udayan Mane and Trishul Chinnappa were tied for the fifth place at 292 while SK Lakra ended up seventh at 294 and Manu Gandas was eighth at 295. Ainesh Ahluwalia shot the best round of the day with a 2-under par 70 to finish ninth at 296. Shakti Singh occupied the last spot in the top-10 with a total of 297. Piyush made a steady start before making his first mistake of the day on the par-3 fifth when he ended up with a bogey. Another bogey on the finishing hole of his forward journey put him at 2-over for the round. With no real threat coming forth from his rivals, especially Manav and Saqib, Piyush was forced to be defensive. "I am happy to win the Northern India Amateur which is considered to be very prestigious and has a rich tradition," said the champion who registered his first amateur win in only his second appearance on the senior Tour. "The victory has boosted my morale and I look forward to finishing on top of the merit list this year," said Piyush who has already established himself as No.1 in his category on the IGU Junior Tour. PTI