English winner of kids championship

English youngster Aadam Syed sprinted away with the US Kids Golf European Championship boys age 11 division by nine shots in East Lothian.

The Hayes resident carded a phenomenal nine birdies during Tuesday’s round en route to finishing the tournament on level-par 216.

The victory was made extra sweet for Syed when he discovered he’d pipped South African Reece Els – nephew of three-time major champion Ernie - to the title.

The US Kids Golf European Championship, contested by 550 children from more than 50 countries, staged its finals over five of Scotland’s most famous courses including Gullane No.2 and No.3, Craigielaw, Luffness New and Longniddry.

Elsewhere, Dylan Frtiz from Las Vegas claimed his second consecutive European Championship after storming from well off the pace in the boys Under 10 division with eight birdies during his final round before defeating South African Martin Vorster at the first extra hole.

Allan Kournikova, younger brother of tennis ace Anna Kournikova, and Herman Loubser from the Isle of Man secured back-to-back European Championship titles after sealing victory in the seven and under and under 13 divisions respectively.

“The level of play has superseded even our highest expectations – there have been more than a few breath-taking moments,” said tournament co-ordinator Alasdair Good.

“With more competitors from a wider range of countries than ever taking part, we have been privileged in watching some, of what I have no doubt will become, the golfing stars of tomorrow.”

In addition to picking up the individual European Championship trophies, each age group winner also won a place in the prestigious US World Championship, which is being held at Pinehurst later this summer.

Since holding its first tournament in 2000, the US Kids Golf Foundation now runs some 400 events each year including the prestigious World Kids Championships - which attracts more than 1,200 players.

For more information visit www.uskidsgolf.com

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