Ernie Els Clinches Principal Charity Classic with a Stunning Performance

Blessed June 3, 2024

South African golfer Ernie Els delivered an impressive performance on Sunday, securing victory at the Principal Charity Classic in Des Moines, Iowa. Els, 54, shot a remarkable 7-under 65 in the final round, finishing at 21-under 195 at the Wakonda Club, marking his first Champions Tour win of the season in his fourth appearance at this event.

Starting the final round tied for the lead, Els made a strong start with two birdies on the front nine. He continued to dominate on the back nine, adding three more birdies and an eagle on the par-5 13th hole, which gave him a crucial edge. “It’s very special,” said Els, reflecting on his victory. “I haven’t won for a while. I’ve had quite a few chances, but it gets tougher when you don’t get it over the line.”

Els faced stiff competition from defending champion Stephen Ames of Canada, who also performed well with a 66 on Sunday, finishing in second place at 19-under 197. Ames managed four birdies and a bogey on the front nine, and three more birdies on the back nine, but Els’ late surge with an eagle on the 13th hole secured his lead. “I was lucky enough to make birdie on 11,” Els said. “And then 12, but 13 was big. To make eagle late on the back nine, that was key. It got me into a two-shot lead.”

The victory not only brought Els a $300,000 prize but also marked his third top-10 finish of the season. The final stretch of the tournament saw intense competition with Bernhard Langer of Germany, Rod Pampling of Australia, and David Duval of the United States all tying for third place at 17-under. Langer and Pampling had shared the lead with Els after Saturday’s second round.

Vijay Singh of Fiji and Heath Slocum of the United States also put in notable performances, tying for sixth place at 16-under. The tournament saw some exceptional golfing talent, with the field competing fiercely for top positions.

Els’ win at the Principal Charity Classic highlights his enduring skill and competitive spirit on the Champions Tour. His ability to execute under pressure, particularly with the decisive eagle on the 13th hole, underscored the strategic brilliance and poise that defined his performance throughout the event.