Amateur Lowry wins Golf Irish Open

Irishman Shane Lowry has become the second amateur to win on the European Tour this season after beating England's Robert Rock in a play-off to clinch the Irish Open in front of his home crowd.

Ireland's amateur golfer Shane Lowry kisses the Irish Open Trophy  after winning the Tournament, in Baltray, Ireland, Sunday, May,  17, 2009.(AP Photo/Peter Morrison)

Rock and Lowry were locked in an epic tussle, the Englishman aiming for his first win on the European Tour this season. Rock was in fine form on the greens as he sank this birdie in the 6th.

But Lowry proved up to the challenge. The 22 year old was two shots adrift after 11 holes, but came storming back with birdies at the 14th and 16th to grab the outright lead.

Rock responded with a birdie of his own at the 17th, and a play-off was required.

Eventually it was Lowry who triumphed at the third extra hole, sparking wild scenes of celebration.