Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano

Followed in the footsteps of his idol, Seve Ballesteros, when his maiden victory came in The KLM Open at Hilversumsche Golf Club in June 2005. Ballesteros's maiden victory also came in The Netherlands in 1976 and his compatriot won the 2005 version in fine style with a two stroke victory over an experienced chasing pack. While it took Ballesteros 27 attempts to win his first Tour title, Fernandez-Castano achieved the feat in only 16. It was a performance which ultimately saw him clinch The Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year Award, again following in the footsteps of two more of his Spanish golfing heroes, Jos? Maria Olaz?bal and Sergio Garcia who won the prestigious award in 1986 and 1999 respectively. ?I am very proud to have won the Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year Award," he said. ?It is now important is that I continue to work hard and improve so that I can try to reach the same level as Seve, Jos? Maria and Sergio." Turned professional in September 2004 and went on to win the eighth card at the Qualifying School Final Stage. An accomplished tennis player too, he started playing golf under the tutelage of his father at the age of five. Now coached by Jose Carlos Guti?rrez.

European Tour
2 - 2005 KLM Open, 2006 BMW Asian Open

2004 PGA European Tour Summary
Played in three events, missed cut in Dunhill Links Championship, T7th Mallorca Classic & T52nd Open de Madrid.

2005 PGA European Tour Summary
Tournaments entered - 26; in money - 13; top-10 finishes - 2; stroke average 71.45 (ranked 57th); money €423,945 or £286,544 (ranked 57th); Winner The KLM Open