Collegian News: Toomey wins Sheraton Classic

New Zealand pro golfer Luke Toomey caused a major upset to clinch the Sheraton Classic 2022 with a single shot during the final round on Saturday.

The 29-year-old returned to the tournament for the first time in five years.

He shot a total of 267 (70, 65, 64 and 68) ahead of second place tie finish, and fellow country­men Josh Geary (66, 67, 66, 69) and James Gor­don (69, 68, 65, 66) who both carded a total of 268.

Toomey told SUNsports that he had to work hard to win.

“I have really developed my passion for the game and that hasn’t left me,” he said.

“I do feel very privileged to still love this game as a 29-year-old, so kudos to my coach.

“Without him I certainly wouldn’t be having a crack in my dreams without the spot.

“In just the last three days to be able to com­pete against Josh (Geary) has been an absolute pleasure.

“He is going to hate me as well, but he is someone I looked up to and I have learned so much. I can’t imagine that it’s easy to handle and obviously it’s the sheer team as well.

“The last time I was here, which was prob­ably five years ago, the hotel had an amazing makeover and there’s a pleasure and a privi­lege to be staying here.

“So, thank you so much you guys were a pleasure to play with. I had no idea who was going to be teaming up this way.”

Perfect weather

He added that senior pro Glenn Joyner was among the outstanding golfers in the field.

“You probably only cost me about two to three, which is pretty good, really.

“That’s amazing to me just travelling again, to be honest, to be on a plane.

“We bought the tickets to be in 30 degrees. Perfect weather, It doesn’t get much better than this.”

He thanked Team Sheraton for being a fabu­lous host and Pacific Golf Management for a grand tournament in Fiji.

In fourth spot was Kit Bittle (273), ahead of Michael Wright (274) and Brad Burns (278) who settled for fifth and sixth position.

Bigger, better 2023

Marriott International Multi Properties vice-president Neeraj Chadha thanked the golfers for returning to Fiji for the event.

He also thanked the sponsors for being on board.

Pacific Golf Management director Richard Elli said, they would plan to make the tourna­ment bigger and better next year.