While holidaying in his native Hawaii, US president Barack Obama has treated the media to a display of his golfing prowess, sinking a 40-foot chip from off the green.

And unlike many of Kim Jong-il's golfing boasts, this moment of magic was captured on camera.

Mr Obama, with his refined, left-handed short game making him look more Phil Mickelson than leader of the free world, sunk a delicate chip from the fringes of the 18th green at the Mid-Pacific Country Club.

With throngs of media watching on, Mr Obama celebrated with a tip of the cap and casual point to the cheering crowd.

It follows a strong tradition of golfing presidents, with predecessor George W Bush famed for his solid driving game.