Golf Monthly touring professional Sam Hutsby has secured his European Tour card after finishing in second place at European Tour Qualifying School in Spain.
The 21-year-old closed with a 69 on PGA Catalunya's Stadium course, finishing just one shot adrift of compatriot Simon Khan.
Those finishing in 30th or tied secured a coveted Tour Card, but most of Hutsby's fine work was done following a 65 in round three. Then yesterday, during round five, the youngster fired three eagles in a round of 66 which meant he headed into today's final round looking at winning the event rather than looking over his shoulder.
Hutsby's final round contained four bogeys but another eagle, together with five birdies including a run of three in a row on the back nine, was almost enough to catch Khan, who returned to a two-over-par 74.
It all added up to a six-round total of 19-under-par for the Hampshire youngster who will now be able to sit down and plan the season ahead with much to look forward to.
Others who qualified for next season include Scots Stephen Gallacher, Scott Drummond and 1999 Ryder Cupper Andrew Coltart.
The new European Tour season gets underway next weekend at the Alfred Dunhill Championship in South Africa.
Where next?
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