7:00am Thursday 2nd July 2009
By Neil Perrett
MEMBERS at Ferndown Golf Club raised their glasses to Kevin Spurgeon’s entry into the prestigious Senior Open Championship – only to find them empty!
The popular 54-year-old will rub shoulders with a host of golfing greats later this month after earning his ticket to Sunningdale thanks to his sparkling form this season.
But while the charismatic Spurgeon may be the toast of Dorset, his friends and playing partners at Ferndown missed out on his celebration.
“When I found out I was in, I bought a bottle of champagne and drank it all myself!” said Spurgeon, who booked his place in the Major after landing one of only four available spots to non-exempt players.
“I’m 18th in the order of merit this year and there were four cards up for grabs for the leading money winners who were otherwise not exempt. I got the third one.
“I knew I was close after finishing tied 10th in the PGA Seniors Championship at the weekend. My flight was delayed on the way home so I phoned the tour office from the airport and they confirmed I was in.
“It takes the pressure off because you don’t have to go through qualifying. I’ve had a great run this season and things are going well. I can really enjoy it now.”
Spurgeon will take his place among an illustrious roll call of history-makers at the magnificent Surrey venue, including an array of Major winners and former Ryder Cup captains and players.
Ian Woosnam, Sandy Lyle, Nick Faldo, Tom Lehman, Tom Watson, Mark O’Meara and Tom Kite are all expected to take their chance when the four-round event tees-off on Thursday, July 23.
University graduate Alex Whittet, a five-handicapper from Hankley Common, will caddie for Deanside Letting-sponsored Spurgeon who has already recorded three top-10 finishes in seven tournaments this season.
© Copyright 2001-2012 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk