O'Briain claims Rookie of the Year

Dubliner Neil O'Briain wrapped up his Sunshine Tour campaign by claiming the Bobby Locke Award for Rookie of the Year at the season ending Tour Championship in South Africa.

The 31-year-old, who played his early golf at Royal Dublin Golf Club, completed his PGA training at Old Conna Golf Club in 2016 before setting his sights on a full-time competitive career.

A hip injury forced the former Irish PGA Assistants' champ to withdraw from the Tour Championship before the start of the second round opening the door for his nearest rival, Zack Byrd, to pip him to the title.

American Byrd needed to finish tied 12th or better to overhaul O'Briain but ultimately he ended the tournament in 18th place on three-under, 14 shots behind winner Darren Fichardt.

O’Briain's last place prize money saw him edge out Byrd by just ZAR 5,222 — approximately €355. He finished 43rd on the Order of Merit securing his full card for next season and earning starts in four European Tour co-sanctioned events.

O’Briain's best result this season on the Sunshine Tour was a third place finish at the Dimension Date Pro-Am.