Suneson ends 18-year wait for first European tour title

ST OMER, France, June 17 (Reuters) Carl Suneson ended an 18-year wait for his first European tour title today when the 39-year-old Spaniard won the St Omer Open by three shots.

A closing two-under 69 for an eight-under 276 total allowed Suneson to head Australian veteran Peter Fowler, Briton Marcus Higley and Frenchman Francois Calmels for the 1,320 first prize.

Suneson came to St Omer languishing in 188th place on the European tour money list with a 14th visit to a qualifying school in prospect.

His first full tour success, the tour's 13th maiden win of the season, however ensured a one-year exemption for the 2008 season.

REUTERS BJR KP2110