Eleven golfers represented the arab golfing world at the maiden Africa Amateur Championship at Leopard Creek in Malelane, South Africa.

Out of the field of 72 players, the eleven golfers competing under the Arab Golf Federation were from Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia and were all fighting for a winners spot into the 152nd Open at Royal Troon, the British Amateur Championship, Alfred Dunhill Championship and Waterfall City Tournament of Champions.

An impressive eight arab golfers made the cut, and the best-placed come the end of play was Egyptian Issa Abou Ela, who finished in solo 10th spot after a tournament total 289, one over par.

Just three shots back was Morocco’s was Adam Bresnu after his final round of two-under par. With his fellow countrymen a further four shots back in a tie for 17th in El Mehdi Fakori and Soufiane Dahmane.

Three South Africans, competing in their home country, were knotted in a tie at the end of 72 holes, and it was Altin van der Merwe who made a birdie on the first playoff hole to capture the inaugural Africa Amateur Championship.

The tournament was staged by the R&A, and the victory earned the 27-year-old van der Merwe exemptions into the 152nd Open at Royal Troon in July, as well as spots in the British Amateur Championship, Alfred Dunhill Championship and Waterfall City Tournament of Champions.

“I can’t wait to play in the Open,” van der Merwe said. “It’s links golf as well, so I’m going to be licking my chops out there with just a little sting 2-iron all day, and I just can’t wait until the time comes.”

Zimbabwe’s Keegan Shutt produced the day’s early fireworks when he shot a course-record 10-under 62. That was a 15-shot improvement from the third round for Schutt, who tied for eighth after he stood at 10 over after three rounds.

The Open Championship is set for July 18-21 at Royal Troon. The reigning champion is Brian Harman.

Image: Octavio Passos/R&A