A thrilling victory in the 2009 CASTELLÓ MASTERS Costa Azahar – his first success in 12 years – left him speechless and secured his playing privileges for another two seasons. Lying 158th in The Race to Dubai heading into the event he was in danger of losing his card but held off Sergio Garcia, Martin Kaymer and Christian Nilsson to turn his fortunes around. Had to go to the Qualifying School in 2012 after a disappointing season which culminated in 165th place in The Race to Dubai, but found some form when it mattered to take the 17th card. Taught to play by his father, a carpenter by trade, he carved out his first victory on The European Tour when he won the 1997 Portuguese Open. The win came during a six year spell on The European Tour from 1995 to 2000. Thereafter he has spent his time between the Challenge Tour and European Tour.