The 23-year-old from the Takaka Golf Club, with his older brother Sean caddying for him, carded a four-under par 66 today to claim the North Island Stroke Play title by three shots from Auckland amateur Tae Koh (70).

The New Zealand rep, who has contended many times in national events, was rapt to claim some long awaited silverware.

“It wasn’t easy out there but I played pretty awesome all day,” said Riordan. “I have come close to winning national titles so many times it is a great feeling to finally get over the line.”

Riordan started with real intent in today’s final round. He birdied his opening two holes, dropped a shot at the fourth but got one back on the fifth to make the turn in two-under par 32.

He added another birdie on the par five 10th and then birdied the last to secure the win in style.

“I asked Sean not to tell me where I was at or how I was going. I just wanted to play and that helped me stay in the zone.”

He said his mate-ship with Sean was a big part of today’s performance.

“Growing up we were a little bit at each other, which really helps as well because we are really competitive so it is quite nice to play together as a team. He keeps a calm head on my shoulders, I am pretty calm, but he pulls me into line when I need it.”

He is looking forward to taking this form to his home province as the Nelson Golf Club hosts the New Zealand Amateur Championship from Wednesday this week.