South African veteran Hendrik Buhrmann ended an agonising 11-year wait for a first title in Asia when he claimed a two-stroke victory at the inaugural Aamby Valley Asian Masters on Sunday.
The 42-year-old Buhrmann carded a final round of one-under-par 71 for a total of 11-under-par 277 at the magnificent Aamby Valley Golf Club to win ahead of Simon Hurd, who closed with a 73 in the US$400,000 Asian Tour event.
Australian Terry Pilkadaris finished third, a further stroke back, following a 70, while compatriot Marcus Both took fourth place on 283. India's Ashok Kumar, who had led on the back nine, faded badly with a 78 and settled for a share of fifth place.
A winner of eight titles in South Africa, Burhmann has always yearned for success in Asia which he regards as his second home and it took all his years of experience and fighting qualities to finally end his drought.
'I'm feeling great. I said earlier in the year to some people that you know what, my dream is to win on the Asian Tour before I die. They really laughed at me but I really meant it. A few months later, I've got my dream come true. I'm really happy,' said Buhrmann, who picked up a cheque of US$63,400.
'We all need money but the win for me is so fantastic. I'm just over the moon.'