Smith claims breakthrough Big Easy victory

England’s Daniel Smith rallied from behind to claim his maiden Betway Big Easy Tour win, thanks to a final-round 70 at Akasia Golf Club on Friday.

His total of seven-under-par 209 proved enough for the Englishman to walk away with a one-stroke win over Wandre Snyman. Smith’s final round featured five birdies and three dropped shots.

“Today was stressful, actually,” admitted Smith. “I started the round a couple behind and then it got quite tight towards the end of the front nine. I thought I was there or thereabout with a few holes to play, and it’s always stressful. So, I am happy to not make too many mistakes coming in.

“Personally, it’s just nice to get it done. Once you’ve been close and you’re not getting it done, it’s a bit of a monkey on your back. But, once you get it off, hopefully, I can push on from here.”

Smith’s win follows a series of strong performances on this Sunshine Tour development circuit, making this victory even sweeter for the Englishman.

“I am happy to get it done because I have had a few close ones over the last couple of weeks,” said Smith of his recent form.

Despite his gallant effort which yielded a superb 68 in the final round, Snyman will make do with a second-place finish again this week, having lost in a playoff against Ruben Van Der Berg at ERPM Golf Club.

Toto Thimba Jnr also showed his class this week and his final-round 71 helped him to a solo third finish on a tournament total of 5-under-par 211.

Another player who showed up this week and gave a solid account of himself was the big-hitting Christian Kriek. Rounds of 72, 69 and 72 earned him a share of fourth with winner of the first event, Jordan Wessels. Wessels is having a fairytale start to his rookie season as a professional.

The 21-year-old boasts a win already and lies second on the Order of Merit and has consistantly challenge for victories, perhaps a sign of things to come from the GolfRSA graduate.

The Betway Big Easy Tour is the Sunshine Tour’s feeder circuit and enjoys the support of the legendary Ernie Els, among other patrons.