Byrd delighted to capture Open spot

Jonathan Byrd could not hide his excitement at qualifying for the British Open Championship after birdying three of his final five holes to win the John Deere Classic.

Byrd carded a five-under-par 66 at TPC Deere Run on Sunday to finish at 18-under 266, a shot ahead of South African Tim Clark.

The victory, the third of his career, earned Byrd a spot at Carnoustie this week as well as at next year’s Masters.

He picked up $738,000 (€535,000) for the win but was even more excited about the perks.

“I haven’t played in the British yet and every time I watch it on TV, I just can’t wait to get over there,” he said. “I just love the thought of playing that type of golf.

“I haven’t played The Masters since I think 2004, so obviously that’s a sweet thought as well. I said I wanted to go out and play today just for today, so I just enjoyed it and was able to take the challenge and the opportunity and play really well coming down the stretch.”

Byrd closed with birdies at the 14th, 16th and 17th to edge Clark, who fired a final-round 68.

Third-round leader Nathan Green (71) finished in a tie for third with Troy Matteson (66) at 15-under.

Clark had opened up a three-shot lead by the turn but eventually came up short in his search for a first PGA Tour victory.

“It’s been a long time now. It’s been six years out here without a win,” he said.

“But I think with what I’m working on now, I feel like I’m a better player now than I was certainly last year or the year before. So, you know, hopefully it’s my time.”