Jose Maria Olazabal is backing Adrian Otaegui to have a successful career on the European Tour following a hugely impressive Q-School where he qualified on his first attempt.
Otaegui, represented by Jamie Cunningham and leading sports marketing agency Professional Sports Group, won his European Tour card for the 2012 season and in so doing became the second youngest 2012 card holder behind his Junior Ryder Cup partner Matteo Manassero.
The 19-year-old is the youngest-ever Spaniard to hold a European Tour card since Seve Ballesteros.
"I know Adrian well and have trained with him on a quite few occasions," said Olazabal. "He is already a very good golfer, if still young and learning.
"He is strong with his irons and has a fantastic short game. He is a really promising player, but still has to work hard, particularly to hit with more power off the tee, which in the modern game is vital."
Golf Monthly followed Otaegui in June (September issue) at the British Amateur Championship where he drew a big gallery, and despite not making the latter stages it was clear Spain had another bright young talent ready to make the step up to professional level.
His father Javier will continue to caddie for him as he begins life on tour, with South Africa the likely destination for his 2012 debut.
"I am looking forward to playing the European Tour in 2012," said Otaegui. "I have learnt a lot on the Challenge Tour this year since I turned professional. Tour School was great, but now the hard work begins in a couple of weeks."
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