Michael Stewart's Open dream is blown away

Jul 10 2009 by Mike Wilson

TROON hopeful Michael Stewart missed out on his Open dream but reckons he’s had the week of his life.

The 19-year-old starred as Scotland won the European Men’s Team Championship in Wales.

But the Welbeck hero failed to repeat his form in the Open qualifying at Glasgow Gailes when he fired rounds of 75 and 76 to finish nine over.

Michael said: “I was tired and fatigue kicked in. I just couldn’t get going but winning in Wales was a big thing. Now I’ll watch the Turnberry action on TV and look forward to playing in the Scottish Amateur Championship at Royal Troon later in the month.”

Among those missing out at Kilmarnock Barassie was twice former Masters winner Jose Maria Olazabal who finished three under on 143. That left him 13 adrift of Austrian Markus Brier who flew home with 17 birdies. He followed a course record 64 with a 66.

South African Thomas Aitken led at Glasgow Gailes with rounds of 69 and 67. Swede Frederick Andersson was top man at Western Gailes with 70 and 67.

Brothers Lloyd and Elliot Saltman made it a family double by staking two of the 12 qualifying places.

Adult practice day tickets purchased at the pay gates are £25 on Monday and £30 on Tuesday and Wednesday. Over 65s are £15 on Monday and £25 on Tuesday and Wednesday. Under 16s are admitted free with an adult.