Alejandro Cañizares was keen to play down the importance of his local knowledge ahead of the NH Collection Open.
The Spaniard lives only a quarter of an hour from the La Reserva de Sotogrande Club de Golf course, and believes the direction of the wind will determine the scoring.
“I feel happy to be playing at home, as I only live 15 minutes’ drive from La Reserva,” said the 31 year old.
“The wind will be the big factor this week. It either blows from the east or from the west, and you are playing two different courses, probably the tougher with wind from the west.
“I am very familiar with these winds as I play often in the area, but don’t think that will be a big advantage this week as many of the players come from windy countries.”
The World Number 92’s home advantage and current form, having won the Trophée Hassan II on his last start, have seen Cañizares installed as the pre-tournament favourite.
And the two-time European Tour winner is keen to continue the form that has taken him to 15th in The Race to Dubai as he looks to climb the Official World Golf Ranking.
“Obviously my next target is to break into the world’s top 50 but, as I keep saying over and over, I want to keep my goals very simple,” he added.
“I want to put myself in contention week after week and to finish consistently in the top ten.
“If I manage to stay grounded, keep my focus and try my best on every shot, the higher objectives will take care of themselves."
