Michael Stewart has an Open dream

Jul 3 2009 by Mike Wilson

TEENAGE hopeful Michael Stewart hopes local knowledge of one of his favourite courses can steer him to a dream date at The Open.

The 19-year-old is chasing one of four Turnberry places when he faces a field of 96 at Glasgow Gailes on Monday and Tuesday.

Among the Troon Welbeck’s star’s opponents are Frenchman Jean Van De Velde who famously threw away the 1999 Open at Carnoustie, American Scott Dunlap, top Ulster pro Ronan Rafferty and Ayr based Englishman Jonathan Lomas.

Stewart, a Scottish internationalist and former Scottish boys’ champion, booked his qualifying place with a superb five under par at Musselburgh. Missing out by a shot was Prestwick’s Callum Nicoll.

He said: “I’ve played Glasgow Gailes a few times and it’s a course I enjoy. If I play as I can, I have every chance. I have had a bit of success there and really like the place.

“Making The Open would be a dream come true. I’m going there to enjoy myself and don’t feel under any pressure.

“I am assured of great local support but if the weather stays flat and calm, it’s going to take two scores in the mid 60s”

Michael’s tee-offs for Glasgow Gailes are 12.27 on Monday and 9.05 on Tuesday.

The Troon youngster is this week in Wales with the six man Scotland side in the European Men’s Team Championship.

Among the big names trying to qualify at Kilmarnock Barassie will be Spain’s former twice Masters winner Jose Maria Olazabal. Big crowds are expected when he tees off at 12.15 on Monday and 8.53 on Tuesday.

Former Ryder Cup man Gordon Brand and twice British Amateur winner Gary Wolstenholme are also in the Barassie field.

Americans Fred Couples and Brad Faxon head the field at Western Gailes where the field includes Andrew Gunson, son of former Turnberry pro and European Tour player Brian Gunson. Andrew now plays out of Shady Canyon in the USA.