Amateur titles to Brunotti, Hillier

Young golfer Silvia Brunotti wants ‘‘to be like Lydia’’ Ko, and is on the right track to doing so, claiming the New Zealand Amateur Championship at just 14 years old.

Brunotti beat defending champion Rose Zheng 7 and 6 yesterday in a dominant display of golf, bursting onto the scene at the same age as Ko did.

‘‘I’m over the moon, I know it doesn’t look like it, but I am.’’

After being 1-down early, the Italian-born golfer reclaimed the lead on the fourth hole and never lost it. By halfway, she was 3-up and as the day progressed the galleries realised that something special was happening.

‘‘I don’t know how to explain the feeling, it’s so unreal and I didn’t think I would get this far.’’

There was no time for celebrations, however, as she continued her study regime with her first science exam today.

In the men’s field, Wellington’s Daniel Hillier claimed his second title, defeating Canter- bury’s Tom Parker 10-up in the 36-hole final.

After spending the week billeted with Parker, Hillier put his friendship aside as he completely dominated the hometown favourite and was 7-up through 18 holes.

Hillier had his fair share of luck this week, but he was very satisfied with his efforts.

‘‘It feels amazing, it’s been one heck of a week and I managed to get some putts to drop in the final and that was the difference today,’’ Hillier said.

‘‘Tom was brilliant all week and it was awesome to go head to head with him at one of the biggest events.

‘‘It is a big step for me and I feel like my career is progressing nicely. If I can keep improving my game I may look to turn pro in a year or two and challenge myself at the next level.’’

Hillier now has won two New Zealand Amateur Championships on his resume, as well as the New Zealand Under-19 Stoke Play, two New Zealand Age Group Championships and the Harewood Open on the Jennian Homes Charles Tour.