Finnish Frenzy: American Women and European Men Shine at PDGA Major
Date Published
The 2009 European Open was a thrilling spectacle at Epila Park in Tampere, Finland, with both American women and European men making their mark on the tournament. In the ladies' division, Val Jenkins of the United States put on an impressive show, overcoming an early deficit to secure her third consecutive major title. The reigning three-time world champion fought back from five strokes behind teammate Carrie Berlogar, thanks in part to a clutch birdie putt on hole 11.
Meanwhile, Jesper Lundmark of Sweden proved his dominance once again, claiming his second straight European Open crown by beating out the best of American talent. After an early hiccup on hole one, Lundmark regained control with birdies on holes five and six, before sealing the deal with a precise drive to within 20 feet on the treacherous waterhole 13.
Carrie Berlogar put up a valiant effort in second place, while Finland's Anne Matilainen rounded out the top three. Sweden's Anki Frantz impressed with her 1-under-par score of 59, securing last-place cash for the ladies' division.
The open division saw an intense battle between Jesper Lundmark, four-time major winner Dave Feldberg, and Ken Climo, but it was the Swedish champion who ultimately emerged victorious. A clutch birdie on hole five gave Lundmark a share of the lead, before he sealed his victory with a precise drive to within 20 feet on waterhole 13.
Timo Pursio of Finland delivered the best round of the day with a bogey-free 49, propelling himself into second place alongside Ken Climo. Dave Feldberg managed to cling onto fourth spot but struggled after missing crucial putts on holes 10 and 11.
In the open division, teenage sensation Simon Lizotte showed remarkable poise under pressure, carding nine birdies in the final 11 holes to finish a respectable fifth. The youngster's impressive play earned him widespread recognition as one of the sport's brightest young talents.
The event was hosted by Jussi Meresmaa and his family, with Epila Park providing an idyllic backdrop for the tournament. As the crowd cheered on their favorite players, it was clear that this year's European Open would be remembered for years to come.
This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/european-open-final