Daniel van Tonder is hoping his top three at last week's Joburg Open can be the spark for a fine run of form as he looks to defend his title at the Investec South African Open Championship.
The home favourite lifted the trophy last year for his eighth Sunshine Tour victory but did not make it two on the DP World Tour as the event was not co-sanctioned due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
He then went almost a full year without another top ten before his impressive showing at Houghton Golf Club and he arrives 40 kilometres north at Blair Atholl Golf & Equestrian Estate feeling confident again.
"Last week's tie for third boosted my confidence," he said.
"I don't think I'd had a top ten for a whole year which is not usually me so I'm finally finding some confidence and looking forward to this week."
At 8,161 yards, this week's venue will provide a stern test even for the longest hitters, with Van Tonder winning the title last year at Gary Player Country Club.
"It meant a lot, I've been watching the SA Open for my whole life," he said.
"I played the SA Open amateur and couldn't win that but I won the SA Open Championship so it means a lot.
"It's not the same venue as last year but Blair Atholl is a great test. The course is in great condition, the greens are very good.
"It's long so you have to hit it quite hard and reach the greens for two to give yourself chances this week."
