Chalmers Wins Australian Open; Tiger Charges

(Note: The following was originally published by the author on Waggleroom.com) Late last night as many golf fans in North America were enjoying their Saturday evening, our friends in Australia were watching the conclusion of the Australian Open on Sunday afternoon. Despite a surging Tiger Woods in the Open's final round, countryman Greg Chalmers captured the title by firing a 3-under 69 marking his second victory in this tournament (previous was 1998).

Defending champion Geoff Ogilvy shot an impressive 7-under 65 to tie for fourth along with Adam Scott, Nick Watney, Jason Day, and Nick O'Hern. Day and Scott were favorites going in to the tournament this week, however neither could piece together four solid rounds to give themselves a solid chance at the title... which could also be said for Tiger.

Woods - the 36-hole leader - shot an abysmal 75 in his third round that would ultimately spell the end of his hopes for getting back into the winner's circle for the first time in two years. His charge on Sunday, however, did feature flashes of brilliance and included a birdie on the tough 12th hole at The Lakes and a resounding eagle chip-in on the 14th hole, which brought him to within one shot of the lead with four holes left to play.

Tiger was the clubhouse leader following his round, but Chalmers' would only need an up-and-down on his 18th hole to capture his second national title.