Jake shoots for success

He missed the cut in his British Open debut but ahead of tomorrow’s Sanctuary Cove Shootout Jake McLeod, 24, tells Rhys O’Neill about his unforgettable golf trip

FROM Hills International junior to the British Open – how was that whole experience?

It was amazing. It was the best week of my golfing career so far. It was a special week as well with The Open returning to Portrush, which hasn’t been in Ireland in 60-something years. The tournament was sold out, so there were massive crowds each day. The atmosphere, with the grandstands around the first and the 18th hole, had a special feeling to it.

Walking to the last, when everyone is clapping your approach to the green was really cool. The biggest thrill was playing with Tiger (Woods), even though it was only for one hole. I was more nervous at that tee shot than for my first tee shot of the tournament.

I learnt a fair bit. I think I learnt that I am good enough to be there (at the Majors).

I was stoked to be there, but didn’t know what to expect. Next time around I will be ready to compete more. The next tournament I go into, I will be more comfortable in their company.

What do you hope it will do for your game?

I lost concentration when the bad weather came in and hit bad shots. Those type of courses are very tough and pars are a good score. You need to think your way a little better in those situations. How have you rated your season and what are the hopes for this year’s big Aussie events? My season hasn’t gone as well as I would like but my game feels good. It’s more mental stuff – getting used to the travel, meeting new people. It was a bit lonely at the start of the year. For the end of the year I want to try and win all the Aussie tournaments I play. Is a format like the Shootout, which knocks golfers out per hole, the future for golf in terms of gaining new audiences?

At times, definitely. You can’t stray away from a classic four-round 72-hole strokeplay. A tournament like this, every

now and then, is something different. I haven’t played it but it will be interesting. I’ve heard nothing but great things. It will be super exciting (with) 19 guys at the first tee. Who is your biggest threat?

I’d have to say one of the Sanctuary Cove boys. There are a few – Dylan Perry, Anthony Quayle and Cory Crawford. They would’ve been mapping the course out. They’ve probably picked the pins too (laughs). The $50,000 Shootout starts at 8.30am.