By Anna Bode

Australia's Karen Lunn proved why she loves playing in Europe by becoming the first two-time winner on this season's American Express Tour in the French Open at Paris International.

The day before she reluctantly headed for the LPGA Tour pre-qualifying school starting in California on Tuesday, the 31 year-old shot a closing two under
par 70 to set the French title alongside her win in the
Tour Players' Classic in May.

The 1993 British Open Champion finished on seven under par 281, and claimed the £15,000 first prize by four shots from South Africa's Laurette Maritz.

Maritz, aiming to score her first win since 1990, was one behind going itno the final day which turned into a head-to-duel until she dropped back with three bogeys in the final five holes. She shot 73 for 285, while Britain's Trish Johnson, the defending champion, was third another shot back on two under 286 following a 71.

"I don't enjoy playing in America, and I don't really want to go back," said London-based Lunn, who returned to Europe after three years this season. "But I just want the chance to play more golf. There are only thirteen events this year, and that is not enough.
"But, whatever happens, I'll still play the full European schedule next year. That's why I didn't go over earlier to prepare for the school. It won't bother me too much if I don't make it."