Golf: McDowell wins World Challenge

THOUSAND OAKS, California: - Northern Ireland's Graeme McDowell ended a two-year victory drought Sunday with a three-shot triumph in the World Challenge hosted by Tiger Woods.

McDowell, who capped a stellar 2010 season that saw him win the US Open with a victory in this unofficial post-season invitational, hadn't won anywhere in the world since then.

He carded a four-under par 68 on the soggy Sherwood Country Club course for a 72-hole total of 17-under 271 and a three-stroke victory over Keegan Bradley.

Bradley, the 2011 PGA Championship winner who started the day two shots off McDowell's lead, posted a 69 for 274.

The 18-man event offers world ranking points and while it isn't part of any tour McDowell said the win added a nice flavor to a sometimes frustrating season that included a tie for second at the US Open, and a tie for fifth at the British Open.

Bo Van Pelt carded a 70 for sole possession of third place on 278, while tournament host Woods carded a one-under 71 on the rain-soaked Sherwood Country Club course for a share of fourth place on 279.

Woods, who was joined by Jim Furyk (70) and Rickie Fowler (69), finished with two bogeys, a birdie and an eagle.

McDowell held a four-shot lead over playing partner Bradley through 12 holes, but things changed quickly at 13 thanks to his three-putt bogey and a birdie by Bradley.

McDowell is planning a 10-week break before launching his 2013 campaign. He'll enjoy his time off in Northern Ireland and at his US home in Florida all the more now. (AFP)