The LIV golfer, who hails from Bloemfontein, made a sensational return to the Sunshine Tour by winning by seven strokes for his second Origins of Golf title.

Burmester carded a final round of six-under-par 66 to sign off on 28 under par for the tournament. This was his second victory in the series after claiming his previous title back in 2015 at Koro Creek. This title was the second-highest winning margin in the history of the series, following Jared Harvey’s eight-stroke victory in 2017 at Zimbali.

Burmester said winning this week was special seeing that it is in his new hometown.

“It’s just great to be back in South Africa playing golf and competing for trophies,” said Burmester.

Dean Burmester. Photo: Sunshine Tour

“I love South African golf – it’s super special to win in front of so many friends and family. The South African hospitality is so special. The support we had and that super South African gees was just magnificent.

“I had a good battle with Jean Hugo over the last two days which was also fun. But this is what I grew up on – this Kikuyu grass. It suits my game. It was so special to have everybody out here watching. My family and I made the move to George from Bloemfontein about eight years ago and we’ve absolutely been embraced by this town.”

The serial winner of the Origins of Golf series, Jean Hugo, finished on 21 under par for second.

Meanwhile, Danielle du Toit finished as the leading Sunshine Ladies Tour professional in 20th place on 13 under par with a final round of 68. Gabrielle Venter of Bloemfontein closed with a 69 to finish on 12 under par.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg