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Jose Coceres wins Dubai Desert Classic 2000

KARACHI: Argentinian golfer Jose Coceres celebrated his victory at the Dubai Desert Classic 2000 with a special tribute to his family ÑÊin way of a message on a white banner which he flashed to television cameras soon after his winning putt.

The 37-year old stole the show at the star-studded classic with a consistent three-day lead, finishing his resplendent performance with a convincing 14-under on a total score of 274.

Coceres' life story is an inspiring rags-to-riches tale of a poor Argentine boy who caddied at 13 to support his family. His first golf club was a tree branch and his first golf ball was a stone.

Today, Coceres' official winings of œ1,226,906 has certainly taken him way above the poverty line, but his impoverished childhood remains his single source of inspiration that drives him to his successful present.

Paul McGinley of Ireland and Patrik, Sjolan of Sweden tied for second place with score of 276.

Emirates is the official carrier of the annual Dubai Desert Classic. The US$1.3 million tournament is sponsored by Dubai Aluminium Company Ltd.ÑPR