Troon teenager tees off on qualifying bid

Jun 26 2009

Michael Stewart

A TROON teenager is bidding to join Tiger Woods and Padraig Harrington when the Open comes to Turnberry.

Talented Michael Stewart hopes to use his winning ways to qualify for the top tournament.

The 19-year-old revealed that he’s taken three months away from his studies to try and qualify for the competition.

And he’s been given a helping hand from South Ayrshire Council, who have offered him free use of Troon Golf Course and swimming pool to train.

The former Marr College pupil’s skill on the course earned him the title of Scottish Junior Champion in 2008.

He also represented his country in several youth internationals, captained the GB and Ireland junior team in their matches against Europe, and was winning youth captain of the Royal and Ancient team for the McLeish trophy.

Michael was also a member of the six-man team for the European Golf Association and has been selected to play for Britain in the Walker Cup.

Michael, who studies in America, said: “I’ve had an amazing couple of years and my game is getting better and better.

“One of the downsides to playing competitive golf at this level is that you spend a lot of time away from home, but I’ve never forgotten where I come from.

“I am really pleased that South Ayrshire Council has offered me the chance to play and practice here in my home town and I intend to use these opportunities to qualify for the Open.”

Presenting Michael with his pass to the club and pool, deputy council leader Margaret Toner said: “Michael is a credit to Troon, South Ayrshire and Scotland.

“He takes his golf very seriously and practices incredibly hard.

“If we can help him go on to become another home grown tournament winner then I’d be delighted to think we’d helped in some small way. Who knows, maybe he will indeed lift the coveted claret jug.”