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Hanson lifts the trophy in Hilversum. Peter Dejong/AP/Press Association Images

Hanson puts family concerns to one side, wins KLM Open

The Swede was convinced to play on by his wife despite his son going into intensive care.

PETER HANSON’S DECISION to stay on rather than return to Florida to be with his sick son paid off on Sunday as he won the European Tour’s KLM Open at Hilversum.

The 34-year-old Swede – whose wife convinced him to stay on on Friday night despite his son being in intensive care – rattled in a 35 foot putt on the 18th green to record a three-under par round and a four-round total of 14 under par.

Hanson, who also gained a massive morale boost ahead of his second successive Ryder Cup appearance at the end of the month, won by two shots from Pablo Larrazabal of Spain and Scotland’s Richie Ramsay.

“I was more badly affected by my son’s illness on Saturday,” said Hanson.

I had had a sleepless night as I kept in touch with my wife and got regular updates from her and the doctor through the night.

“She actually convinced me to stay on. I sent texts throughout the round on Saturday but I was much better today as he is much better.

“I am very happy both for myself and obviously that he is improving.”

(c) AFP, 2012

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