OPEN Champion Padraig Harrington has become the first professional golfer to conquer the world’s most amazing par three.

The Irish star took the helicopter to the top of Hanglip Mountain at the Legend Golf & Safari Resort on the Big 5 Entabeni Safari Conservancy in Limpopo Province in South Africa for the challenge of the Extreme 19th.

There he hit a driver to the green in the shape of Africa some 400m below.

After hitting four practice balls, Harrington smashed his competition ball into the bunker surrounding the green before flying back down and splashing out to just about 18 inches and holing the putt for the first par by a professional.

Harrington said the Extreme 19th is one of the most amazing holes he has ever played.

He said: “This is golf in 2010…this is the type of innovation and excitement we need to get more people playing golf. There aren’t many new innovative ways to play the game but this is certainly one of the best. And now I’ve got bragging rights over all the other professionals who have played this and not managed to make a three. I love everything about it.”

The Signature Course has been designed by 18 of the world’s leading golfers, with each of them designing one hole.

The list of signatures who have been honoured to work on the project reads like a who’s who of world golf including Trevor Immelman, Sergio Garcia, Bernard Langer, Colin Montgomerie, Justin Rose, Vijay Singh, K J Choi, Retief Goosen and, of course, Harrington to name but a few.

Harrington, who designed the par 4, 10th, said he was delighted with the finished product but that he may like a few more bunkers adding.

He said: “I’m delighted to have been involved in this project especially as it’s the first golf hole I’ve designed."

The unique course is due to open for play in March 2009 but the challenge of the Extreme 19th is one you can take now.

For more information about Legend Golf & Safari Resort please go to www.legendgolfsafari.com