Immelman hails dream victory

South African Trevor Immelman’s victory in the Nedbank Golf Challenge in his homeland was “a dream come true”.

Immelman held off England’s Justin Rose at the Gary Player Country Club in Sun City to win the first prize in the 12-man event.

It was not a pretty finale – Immelman bogeyed his last three holes but escaped after South African-born Rose had a six on the par-four last – but that did not bother the victor.

“This is important to me because I get to play in front of the South African supporters, so to finally win it is a dream come true,” said Immelman, who was a late replacement for Sergio Garcia in the tournament.

“The support was unbelievable. People were offering encouragement from the word go, shouting my name out and even when I made mistakes on the back nine the fan were still behind me.

“I’m really proud I held it together emotionally and I stuck in there because nerves can play a massive part especially on a tough course like this.”

Immelman, who carded a one-under 71, paid tribute to Rose after the European number one pulled off two late birdies to be able to head down the last level again.

“Justin was tough – to hole those putts on the 16th and 17th shows his mettle, and that’s why he is in the top 10 and has had a great season,” he said.

The South African also thanked Garcia for his withdrawal.

“I owe Sergio a couple of beers because he’s the reason I got in,” he added.

“I’ll be sending him an SMS but he’s probably sent me one already asking for a percentage of my cheque.”