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Home favourite wins in Delhi

10/02/2008

Home favourite Shiv Chowrasia held off the challenge of Ireland's Damien McGrane to win the inaugural Indian Masters in Delhi.

The 29-year-old secured his maiden European Tour victory after carding 67 to finish on nine-under par.

McGrane finished two strokes behind Chowrasia after going round in 70. Northern Ireland's Graeme McDowell could only manage 76 in his final round to finish eight shots off the lead.

Chowrasia, a former caddie at the Royal Calcutta Golf Club, carded four birdies on the front nine to go two strokes clear.

The Indian fired another birdie on the 11th with a 15-foot putt, on his way to sealing victory and earn a two-year exemption on the European Tour.

Chowrasia, who was presented with a special watch by Bollywood superstar Abishek Bachchan, said it was the biggest win of his life.

"On the back nine I tried to make my pars and I am glad I was able to do that," Chowrasia said.

"Over the last five holes I did think about winning and I just wanted to stay calm and focus on my target. I feel like I have played very well and stayed calm.

"I never thought that I could win this tournament, but I don't know what I'm going to do in the future. I am sure I will play more both in Asia and Europe, but my ultimate target is to get onto the US Tour."

McGrane, who was tied second overnight at five under, was joint leader after six holes.

But the Irishman's hopes of victory were dashed after bogeys at the seventh, tenth and 17th holes, before he birdied the last hole.

McGrane said he was disappointed with dropping a shot on the penultimate hole.

"I could have won, could have done all sorts of things, but I’m satisfied with second place," McGrane said.

"But fair play to the champion. Obviously I'd have liked to win but in the end I'm delighted to see an Indian golfer win in India and I think that will be great for the future of golf the country and the future of the European Tour in India itself."