Donaldson wins Thailand Golf Champ., qualifies for British Open
Jamie Donaldson ended his year on a high note on Sunday, winning the Asian Tour's Thailand Golf Championship by two shots over Lee Westwood and French rookie Clement Sordet.
Donaldson, who led out of the gate with a 63 to open at Amata Spring Country Club, closed with a final-round, 7-under 65 to win on 21-under 267. Like on Day 1, the Welshman made nine birdies, but dropped two shots on Sunday. A birdie on the 71st hole of the tournament made the finish easy.
''It was the case of just going out to play like what I've done in the first two rounds. And it all came together today,'' said Donaldson, who carried over his first-round lead through Friday's Round 2.
The event is one of 10 in the Open Qualifying Series, which offers spots into the British Open to players not already in the championship based on their finish in particular global events. The top four players not already qualified who finished in the top 12 earned spots, including Westwood, who will make a 22nd Open appearance in a row next July at Royal Troon.
Sordet, the 54-hole leader, and 16-year-old Phachara Khongwatmai, who finished solo sixth after earning a spot in the field through Monday qualifying, earned the other two spots.
“I’ve played every one since 1995, so it’s great to keep that run going," Westwood said afterward. "It’s been 21 years now and I’ve not missed one, so I’m happy. It’s my favorite championship of the year.”
The 2016 Open Championship will be played at Royal Troon from July 14-17.
Ryan Ballengee is a Yahoo Sports contributor. Find him on Facebook and Twitter.
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