‘Big Easy’ Turns On The Show
The Big Easy, former major champion Ernie Els turned on a dazzling display on the final day of the Fiji International sponsored by Fiji Airways at the Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course yesterday.
Els finished the day on 11 under 69, after starting the day with five under. The tall South African was a popular figure on the course and had a big following trailing his group aound the greens.
The group included second place winner Andrew Quayle who finished on 13 under.
“It was really a great day, “Els said.
“I think people on television, spectators out there, they would have had a great thrill because there’s some really great golf being played.”
“Conditions weren’t that easy.” On whether he felt he had chances on the back nine, Els said he did almost as much as he could.
“I set out to try to shoot 65, which I did, and Anthony just played unbelievable. Jeez, what is it, 29 on the back nine?”
“That’s unbelievable stuff. Great golf and well deserved. Whoever wins, they deserve it because it’s great golf.” On Quayle, Els said he had a great game and great attitude. “He’s got the whole package. He hits it long, he’s got great touch, and under the gun he really brought his stuff.
“He eagled 17 and he had to get the ball up and down. He was off the fairways a lot, but he kept hanging in there. And to shoot 29 on the back nine is incredible.” “What a place,” Els said when asked about Fiji. “Wish I can come back in the future.
“It’s been wonderful. Fiji Airways, all the sponsors, the Intercontinental hotel group, they were wonderful. Food, you name it, great place.”