Connor Syme battled very strong winds to finally bury any lingering demons with victory in the 20th anniversary staging of the Battle Trophy at Crail.

The Drumoig golfer went into the fourth and final round leading by a massive 10 shots and despite yet another horror last day on the Craighead Links course Syme hung on to win by five strokes with a seven over 79 on a bright but very windy afternoon on the East Nuek of Fife.

Connor Syme battles high winds to win the 20th anniversary Battle Trophy.

Two years ago, the ultra-talented Scot led by six strokes with two rounds to play and finished tied second.

Then last year, and as the reigning Australian Amateur, Syme led going into day one but buckled to end ninth behind Craigielaw’s Grant Forest.

“It was a real grind this afternoon,” said Syme. “It was 40-mph winds, it was tough and everyone struggled. The pins were in tough positions so it was difficult to get it close and easy to drop shots.

“I was six over after 11 and knew I had a few tough holes coming, so I went and had a talk with myself and refocused. It was one of those days, but I’m pleased to get the job done having come close in this event the last two years.

“I’m delighted to win as it sets me up for the next few weeks, going to the Lytham Trophy and to Ireland, in what is a Walker Cup year.”

The 21-year-old, coached by his father Stuart, finished five ahead of Steven Stewart from Clydebank & District on two over, with Old Ranfurly teenager Jamie Stewart a stroke further back.

Sam Locke from Banchory, Kirkhill’s Craig Ross and Stuart McLaren (Bruntsfield Links) tied for fourth place on four over par.