Form Horse - Alex Fitzpatrick
Alex Fitzpatrick arrives in Scotland after a breakthrough professional win at last week’s British Challenge presented by Modest! Golf Management and a whirlwind last month.
It started in style thanks in part to a miraculous bunker shot that helped seal an Open debut after a T4 finish at Final Qualifying. The 24-year-old continued the form later that week with a fourth place at the Italian Challenge before a memorable Open week which saw Alex pip his brother Matt for top Fitzpatrick after a T17 finish.
This kid’s short game is so good!!@FitzAlex99 pic.twitter.com/on3jyYoa1g
— Matt Fitzpatrick (@MattFitz94) July 4, 2023
Local boy - Craig Howie
Scot Craig Howie will be keen to have a good week as he pursues a return to the DP World Tour. The 29-year-old, who is managed by tournament promoter and 1999 Open Champion Paul Lawrie, is currently 28th on the Road to Mallorca Rankings. Howie has tasted success previously in Aberdeen having won the Scottish Boys Championship at Murcar Links in 2012.
The Outsider - Ashley Chesters
Known for his accuracy off the tee (ranked as the straightest driver on the DP World Tour last season), Ashley Chesters will be looking to take advantage of this week’s venue, Newmachar Golf Club. Despite it being relatively short, firm greens and tight landing areas will see strategy rewarded.
Coming into this week inside the top 20 of the Road to Mallorca and with two top-five finishes in his last three Challenge Tour starts, all signs point to a strong performance for the Englishman.
