FORMER Penglais School pupil Richard James has won his maiden professional title after securing The Lookers Championship with a 54-hole score of 10 under par.

James, who is based in Tampa, Florida, claimed a £10,000 prize after beating Billy Hemstock in the final round for his first win on the PGA EuroPro tour.

“I was buzzing all day out there, I was enjoying myself and had a smile on my face all day,” said James.

“It isn’t often you are in contention and I wanted to enjoy it, and I think that is the biggest reason why I performed the way I did.

“My putting was key. I kept it in play but I putted unbelievably. The 18th, I’ll remember that for a long time.

“I don’t play for the money but that is a huge part of playing and I can kick on now and push for that top five at the end of the year.”

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