Javier Ballesteros will make his first European Challenge Tour appearance in two years when he tees it up at the Hopps Open de Provence on a course designed by his father.
Europe’s top developmental tour makes its fourth visit of the season to France as the Hopps Open de Provence debuts on the Challenge Tour’s International Schedule at Golf International de Pont Royal.
It will be a special week for the 28 year old as he plays on the only French course his father, Severiano Ballesteros, designed. Seve designed the Mallemort course in 1991 and played the opening round in September 1992, carding a round of 66, which was the course-record for eight years.
Now, his son will make his maiden appearance on the sun-kissed course, as Ballesteros returns to the Challenge Tour for the first time since 2016.
“It’s special to be here as the course was designed by my Dad,” he said. “The golf club contacted me and invited me to play here and I said yes, and I’m very happy to be here at this special course.
“I think the design of the course depends on what type of ground you build it on. I’ve played other courses which my Dad designed, and they are different to this one because the ground is different.
“It’s a tricky course. It’s not very long. You have to be straight off the tee and I think that’s the key. If you can hit the fairways, then you can go for the flags and shoot a good a score.”
The Spaniard has seen an improvement in his game with three top 20 results on the Alps Tour this year. With his game on the rise, Ballesteros returns to the Challenge Tour looking to continue his good form.
“I’ve been working hard on my game and I’ve seen an improvement, so I’m very happy to be playing on the Challenge Tour this week,” he said.
“I started with a new coach in Spain at the start of the year and I’ve seen some improvements with my swing, so I’m looking forward to a good week.
“My Dad always told me to try and enjoy each course. If you enjoy playing the course then you’re probably making birdies and hitting good shots, so my aim is to enjoy it and make a good score here.”
