Mateo Fernandez de Oliveira threw off his final challenge with two consecutive birdies, finishing with a 5-under 67 on Sunday to win the Latin American Amateur Championship and qualify for three majors this year.
Fernandez de Oliveira is only the second Argentinian to break Joaquin Niemann’s 72-hole scoring record by eight shots since the Latin American Amateur began in 2015. He finished 23-under 265.
“I’m still very shocked. I think my life has changed,” said Fernandez de Oliveira. “I am looking forward to a great year. I want to take advantage of the three chances given to him to win this event. I am very happy and I want to enjoy every moment.” .”
The Arkansas senior made up for missing out on the playoffs by one shot at Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic last year.
Fernandes de Oliveira had a four-shot lead at the start of the final round at the Grand Reserve. Mexico’s Luis Carrera, who also finished with 67, managed to get him within two shots. But the Argentinean birdied on his 11th hole and his 12th, and a steady par meal was enough.
The win will send him to the Masters in April, the Los Angeles Country Club for the US Open in June and Royal Liverpool for the Open Championship in July.
Royal Liverpool is where the late Roberto De Vicenzo became the first Argentinian to win a major when he beat Jack Nicklaus to win the British Open in 1967.
Fernandez de Oliveira felt Argentinian pride when he went to Royal Liverpool in 2016.
“The moment I walked into the clubhouse, they asked where I was from.” And I said ‘Argentina’ and they said ‘OK, come with me.’ took me to the lunch room. There were portraits and everything when he won. I was so proud. “
As runner-up, Carrera was awarded exemption to the final stages of qualifying for the US Open and Open Championships.
“I think this week has been fantastic,” said Carrera. “I’m not sad at all. I wish I could have won, but it was an amazing experience. I played great golf and stood there and proved I could win big tournaments.” .I’m satisfied.”
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