Charles wins Open

Press, 1 August 1989, Page 48

Charles wins Open

NZPA London Bob Charles rolled back the years evoking memories of his 1963 British Open success when he came from behind to win the seniors’ British Open at Turnberry in Scotland yesterday. The New Zealand left-hander had trailed American Billy Casper for 54 holes but defied high winds during the final round to shoot a four-under-par 66 for a seven-stroke victory. His final toal was an 11-under-par 269. Casper finished in second place on 276 while fellow American Bob Hiske was third in 279. Gary Player, of South Africa, and England’s Peter Butler were in jointed fourth place on 282. Charles timed his charge to perfec-

tlon and was one of only a handful of players to tame conditions on the final day of this tournament which is the most prestigious senior’s event in Europe. An excited Charles said later: “This success matches my British Open victory of 1963.” He delighted the large Scottish crowd who gave him an emotional ovation as he lifted the trophy and confirmed his position as the leading figure in senior’s golf. Charles, who has now scored more than 50 tournament victories worldwide, collected $U541,259 ($NZ71,750) for the victory. The win takes him to the top of the world seniors* rankings and first place on the tour’s money list.