FJ News

Fichardt fights Victoriously

South African Darren Fichardt (FJ Sport & StaSof) withstood another day of high winds and the challenge of his fellow competitors to claim his third European Tour title in the Saint-Omer Open.
Having started the day five shots clear of his nearest rival, Fichardt’s two over par round of 73 was enough to seal the victory at five under, three strokes ahead his nearest rivals.
It became something of a three-horse race on the final day at Saint Omer Golf Club, which was battered by strong winds over the weekend, as the leading trio were the only players to finish under par for the tournament.
Fichardt admitted there were “no heroics” in his round, and he was just grateful to hang on for the win.
“It was messy today,” said the 37 year old. “It definitely wasn’t pretty. I was absolutely terrified and I was happy we didn’t have to play any more holes.
“To win is awesome. The last four years I’ve had injuries and missed out at the Qualifying School a couple of times, and you wonder if you’ll ever make it back. So it was amazing to get my card last year back at Q School, and to win on my ninth start this season is a dream come true. The exemption for next season is very welcome.”
Fichardt won the 2001 Sao Paulo Brazil Open and the 2003 Qatar Masters and played in the 2000 World Cup alongside fellow countryman, and he drew on his vast experience to see out the victory in France.
Fichardt Claimed the € 83,330.00 which Moves him to €148,915 in The Race to Dubai.