BJÖRNSSON WINS BOYS’ AMATEUR

Óliver Elí Björnsson of Iceland defeated Sweden’s Ludwig Libera on the 37th hole of The R&A Boys’ Amateur Championship Final at Gailes links to become the first Icelandic winner of the Championship.

In a closely fought Final the tenacious Icelander sealed his famous victory with a touch of brilliance.

All square with Libera after 36 holes, the 16-year-old struck a telling blow at the first extra-hole when he dinked an exquisite wedge from around 55 yards to within tap-in distance.

Libera eventually conceded the birdie putt after his own attempt for a three to keep the match going drifted past.

“That shot was possibly the best of my life,” said the victor. “I’m absolutely over the moon. It was such a tight game and a real emotional ride.”

Björnsson made an early statement of intent with a birdie on the opening hole but he could never get more than one hole ahead. When Libera sank a 20-footer for a birdie on the 11th, the Swede grabbed the lead for the first time but it was a fleeting advantage and the sparring duo would eventually finish all-square after 18 holes.

On the 36th, Björnsson’s ten-footer for par kissed the cup and he was left with his head in his hands, but Libera also missed from just inside him and Björnsson was handed a reprieve. He would seize his moment on the 37th with his match-winning finish.

“We Icelandic people never give up,” added Björnsson. “When I missed the putt on the last, I thought my chance was gone and it was game over. Ludwig is such a great putter and I thought he’d hole his. But he didn’t and that gave me more hope. I’m very proud of myself.”

As well as joining a Boys’ Amateur Championship roll of honour, Björnsson also earns an exemption into next year’s Amateur Championship at Royal Portrush as well as a return to Gailes Links for Final Qualifying for The 155th Open at St Andrews.

Photo: Óliver Elí Björnsson from Iceland celebrates after winning the 99th Boys’ Amateur Championship at Gailes Links. (Photo: R&A)