Nico Geyger is looking to continue his recent form with a strong performance at the Bridgestone Challenge to race up the Road to Ras Al Khaimah Rankings.
The Chilean finished tied 11that the Rolex Trophy before taking a share of 22ndat the Cordon Golf Open last week, and arrives at Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf and Spa eyeing a return to the top15 in the Rankings.
Geyger finished 13that the Bridgestone Challenge 12 months ago following the debut of the modified stableford format on the European Challenge Tour. For 2018 the format returns to stroke play and the 32 year old is determined to use last year's experience to maintain his momentum.
Two top five finishes at the start of the year propelled Geyger to third on the Road to Ras Al Khaimah, but with seven events left he sits four places outside the coveted top 15, who will graduate to the European Tour at the end of the season. However, his recent run of results has given him confidence that another top five finish could be around the corner.
“It would be huge to get another top five result,” he said. “This is another week to play well and prepare for the events at the end of the year.
“Momentum is huge, especially with only a few tournaments left. I want to take each opportunity I get. I think I’ve hit the ball well all year and had some good results and some not so good results, but I’m heading in the right direction which is key.”
The Championship Course at Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf and Spa, host of the Bridgestone Challenge for a second successive season, poses a different threat to the other courses on the Challenge Tour’s International Schedule, as it does not feature any bunkers. It may be a rarity on Europe’s top developmental tour, but Geyger believes the parkland setup still demands respect.
“It’s different not having any bunkers on the course,” he said. “Playing a course without any bunkers comes at an odd moment for me because I’ve started to get the feel of my bunker shots. However, the course still defends itself with its small greens, so it’s still a tough challenge.
“It’s playing dry and it’s a lot firmer than last year, making a few holes shorter and giving us more chances. The greens are in great shape as well, so it should be a good week.”
A maiden Challenge Tour victory could see Geyger move into the top ten in the Rankings, while a top ten result could see him return to the top 15. With only seven events left of the 2018 season, he knows a strong finish could prove vital in the search for European Tour status.
“The thought of a top 15 place is probably in the back of the mind of everyone, not just me,” he said. “But at the same time, you have to stay focussed on each opportunity. Last year I was doing the opposite, trying to keep my card, but now I’m in a different fight. It’s fun and it’s exciting and I look forward to the challenge and the opportunities every year.
“I’m trying to keep my momentum going from the last few weeks. I’ve been playing well and I’m trying to stick to the same focus and game plan, hitting the ball well and giving myself enough chances.”
