Worldwide Golf

SIMON Dyson wrapped up the biggest win of his career with a superb three-shot victory over Rory McIlroy and Oliver Wilson at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship.

Dyson carded a 68 round Carnoustie on the opening day and followed it with rounds of 6-under 66 at St Andrews and a 68 at Kingbarns before sealing the victory with another memorable 66 at St Andrews for a 20-under-par total.

“This is like our fifth major – it’s a massive tournament at the Home of Golf and I’ve shot 66 to win it,” beamed Dyson. “I'm absolutely buzzing. Darren Clarke has just said to me ‘Take your time and enjoy it - it does not get any better than winning at St Andrews’.

“My parents always come up (to the tournament), but couldn’t make it this year. They’re never coming back!”

The 1999 Walker Cup player admits he is a lot more dedicated to his golf after his second victory on The European Tour this season following his KLM Open win. “I might have done better but I don’t regret one thing that I’ve done,” Dyson said. “You’re travelling the world and you’ve got to enjoy yourself.

“I’ve still got a lot of time left in my career hopefully - touch wood. I’ve settled down a lot, I’m the happiest away from the course that I’ve ever been, and what more do you want?”

Wilson carded a best-of-the-day 7-under 65 at St Andrews to jump into a share of second place alongside McIlroy who shot a 69. McIlroy moved into the lead on The Race to Dubai with his second place prize money of €281,640.

“After nine holes I thought I had a really good chance but Simon played great so hats off to him,” said McIlroy. “I wanted better but second is okay. I still haven’t shot in the 70s at St Andrews, which is nice.”