In a thrilling finish at the Challenge de Cádiz, Jonathan Gøth-Rasmussen held his nerve to claim his maiden victory on the Challenge Tour, joining his father Jacob Rasmussen as a winner in the family lineage.
The Dane’s final round 69, three-under-par, was enough to secure a one-shot victory over Ireland’s Gary Hurley on a dramatic day at Iberostar Real Golf Novo Sancti Petri.
Gøth-Rasmussen, a former Junior Ryder Cup player, overcame an early bogey on the first hole with three birdies on the front nine, making the turn at two-under-par.
Another birdie at the 11th hole followed by a string of solid pars saw him finish at 15-under for the tournament, enough to clinch the title.
Reflecting on his achievement, the 26-year-old expressed his joy and relief, saying, “It feels amazing right now. It’s been a long day and I was very nervous out there so I am relieved to get the job done. I felt the pressure on the last three holes because they were very tough and the greens are firm.”
Throughout the final round, Gøth-Rasmussen remained aggressive off the tee, relying on his short game to bail him out when needed.
He closely monitored the scoreboard, knowing that Gary Hurley was making a charge, which only added to the pressure.
“I saw Gary Hurley was going low and I was kept updated which increased the pressure.”
“I was sweating right up until I saw that final putt drop and it was very exciting. I’m proud to get my first victory on the Challenge Tour.”
For Gøth-Rasmussen, winning in Spain held special significance as it was where his father Jacob Rasmussen had also tasted victory during his Challenge Tour days.
“It is great to replicate my dad and it’s amazing to have two Challenge Tour winners in the family now.”
“I have been coming down to the South of Spain all of my life for family holidays and I love this part of the world. I love the courses and it feels very nice to win here.”
The victory marks a significant milestone in Gøth-Rasmussen’s career, surpassing his achievement of securing a DP World Tour card at Qualifying School.
With this win, he climbs 95 places to 16th on the Road to Mallorca Rankings, tallying 358 points.
Meanwhile, Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen leads the rankings with 1,043 points, followed by John Parry with 401 points.
Looking ahead, the Challenge Tour moves to the Czech Republic for the Kaskáda Golf Challenge at Golf Resort Kaskáda from June 13-16, 2024.
