Ames pleased at Masters show

The Trinidadian carded a 73 in the final round late on Sunday to finish 1-over and weigh in at 11th on the leaderboard, in a three-way tie with Canadian Mike Weir and Miguel A Jimenez.

“It was a good showing around here in only my second time,” said Ames, who picked up a US $161,000 cheque for his efforts.

“I’m not going to complain. I learned a lot. After this week, I think the course definitely fits my game.” Ames started the tournament slowly, shooting a 74 in the opening round on Thursday but rebounded in the second round to shoot six birdies en route to a fine 70.

He managed to go two-under in the rain-hit third round to announce himself as a contender for the Green Jacket but stumbled in the all-important final round late Sunday to shoot a 73 and fall out of the top 10.

“I just didn’t putt very well,” the 41-year old said. “I missed a lot of putts coming home and lot of putts outside on the front nine.” The 11th place finish was a big improvement on his debut year at Augusta in 2005 when he finished 45th.

Ames, winner at TPC at Sawgrass two weeks ago, said he felt comfortable at Augusta and was already looking towards next year’s edition. “This golf course definitely suits my game,” he said. “I’m already looking forward to next year. I’m quite happy with the feat I accomplished here this week. Good experience. I’ve learned a lot.”

“These are the events that show up your weaknesses. Overall, I thought I was mentally strong out there.” (CMC)