Congratulations to Michael Campbell

Sport and Recreation Minister Trevor Mallard today congratulated New Zealand golfer Michael Campbell for achieving a world first for New Zealand in the international golfing arena by becoming the first kiwi ever to win the US Golf Open.

"Huge congratulations to Michael Campbell. This is a major achievement for Michael personally, and a major milestone for New Zealand sport. I am sure many New Zealanders, like me, have been on tenterhooks all morning as we watched Michael's final nerve-wracking march to victory.

"The last New Zealander to do so brilliantly in the professional golf arena was Bob Charles who until now was the only kiwi to have won a major title - winning the British Open in 1963 - 42 years ago.

"Michael himself shot into prominence on the international golfing circuit when he came close to winning the British Open in 1995, ending third equal just two years after turning professional. That year he also finished fourth on the European Tour.

"It's great to see that Michael hung in there, and returned to form after being plagued by injury following that success. It is a testament to not only his skills as a golfer but also to his dedication and commitment that sees him reaching a pinnacle of his sport today.

"This is fantastic news," Trevor Mallard said.

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