Two local golfers have claimed first place in their respective divisions of the Carrus Tauranga Open this afternoon.

Mark Brown shot 18 under par to win the men's field, while Alanna Campbell topped the women's field with three under par.

What makes the victory even sweeter is that both players were defending champions going into the competition.

Mark says he's pleased with the way the day turned out.

'It got a bit close towards the end, but I managed to hold on. Winning's always difficult, no matter the size of the tournament,” he laughs.

He says he's previously had two thirds and second in the Jennian Homes Charles Tour, plus this latest win.

'I've played the Carrus Tauranga Open about five times, and won four, so a pretty good record.”

Of course, he's also known for his record-breaking score of 59 on the same course a few years ago.

Mark says the crowds were big for this final day of the tournament, and he takes it as a promising sign for the popularity of golf.

'It's a great venue, with great support, and I think everyone will be pleased with the outcome. I love the course, so hopefully I'll get to play a few more rounds in the future.”

18-year-old Alanna was also thrilled with her score, which included shooting six under par in today's round.

'It's been one of my better rounds. I play at Omanu and practice at Tauranga, so it's quite fitting I should win here.”

The young player is ambitious, too, with an international tournament approaching next month, as well as an overseas scholarship.

'I'm going to China to represent New Zealand in a tournament in May, and I'm going to college in America in mid-July on a golf scholarship to Iowa State.”

Today's other major winner was Gareth Paddison, who came second equal in the Carrus Tauranga Open, but takes home the Jennian Homes Trophy for best player across the Charles Tour.

Check out the full leader board here.