March 21st, 2011

Alvaro Quiros’ sensational hole in one en route to victory at the Omega Dubai Desert Classic has deservedly earned the Spaniard the European Tour Shot of the Month Award for February.

Quiros’ ace, which he described as “the perfect shot”, was undoubtedly the highlight of an eventful final day at the Emirates Golf Club which culminated in the big-hitting 28 year old keeping the title in Spanish hands, following Miguel Angel Jiménez’s victory last year.

Having relinquished the lead with a triple bogey seven at the eighth hole, Quiros promptly regained the initiative with a “three quarter wedge” at the 161-yard 11th for an eagle which ultimately helped him seal victory by a single stroke. He said:

“The most memorable moment of the week, without doubt, was the hole in one. It’s always special to make a hole in one, but to do it in a final round when you’re in contention was even more special. It was the perfect shot.”

Quiros joins England’s Paul Casey, who took the prize in January, in winning the award this year. Second place went to Englishman Robert Coles for his holed approach for an eagle at the seventh hole on the final day of the Avantha Masters, while his compatriot Luke Donald took third place for his deft chip to the 15th hole to close out victory at the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship.

Chosen by fans of www.europeantour.com, the Shot of the Month is awarded to the Tour Member for the stroke judged to be the best played each month on The European Tour International Schedule. The winners of each Shot of the Month Award will then be put forward for the European Tour Shot of the Year, won last season by Graeme McDowell for his unforgettable birdie putt on the 16th green of The Celtic Manor Resort which helped Europe regain The Ryder Cup.