Norris backs compatriots to challenge for Claret Jug

– Shaun Norris (right) will take inspiration from compatriot Brandon Stone’s victory in the Scottish Open last week into the British Open at Carnoustie Golf Links today.

Stone shot an incredible 10-under par 60 to win by four in the final round of the Scottish Open on Sunday to book his spot in the year’s third Major at the very last opportunity.

“It was awesome to watch Stone win last week. I was really happy for him. I spoke to him, he was really struggling for a while and he worked through it and pulled off a big win. It shows the SA guys we can take on the world,” said Norris.

Carnoustie

A total of 12 South Africans are set to tee it up in The Open.

“It’s really awesome to have so many of our own players out here, and to see more of our own guys taking on world golf. It’s just special to have so many [SA] guys here.”

With The Open being the only Major hosted outside America, the event held the best chance of producing a South African winner according to Norris.

“The Open gives the SA players a great chance to win. We do have some similar conditions back home. I think our SA players are strong enough to compete for the big tournaments.

“I feel my game is strong enough to finish up the leaderboard, so I just want to get my name up there.”

Norris made his debut at The Open last year when he finished 62nd, and to return in 2018 still gave the 125th-ranked player in the world a unique thrill.

“It’s always nice to qualify for The Open,” he added.

“My game is coming on nicely, I’ve been working hard on it – working on the right things finally and I’m moving in the right direction.

“I don’t know the course as well as most of the guys out here. Luckily I came down a week earlier, and played enough practice rounds to get to know it.” – ANA