Perak, Malaysia: John Michael O’Toole stamped his mark in the professional game when he closed with a one-under-par 70 to claim a breakthrough victory at the RM200,000 (about US$46,600) PGM Clearwater Masters.
The 22-year-old O’Toole, who held a four-shot lead heading into the final round, compiled a winning total of 15-under 269 at the Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort, becoming the second American to win on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) this season.
His playing partner Poom Saksansin of Thailand signed off with a 68 to take second place on 271 while R. Nachimuthu, who also closed with a 68, emerged as the highest-ranked Malaysian in third place on 272.
Sattaya Supupramai finished fourth on 273 following a 69 while fellow-Thai Namchok Tantipokhakul posted a superb 65 to share fifth place with Filipino Jay Bayron (68) on 274.
As well as banking the first prize cheque for US$8,482, O’Toole received six Official World Golf Ranking points in what was only his fourth event on the ADT.
“This is my first win since turning professional in 2015. I am really thankful. I fought well the whole week and I have been talking to my mentor Iain Steel (a former ADT winner) every night.
“He has given me a lot of good advice and I really appreciate that. I focus on every shot and never give up till I reach the finishing line,” said O’Toole, the younger cousin of reigning ADT Order of Merit winner Casey O’Toole.