Grégory Bourdy is aiming to become the first player to successfully defend the ISPS Handa Wales Open when he tees up at The Celtic Manor Resort this week.
The Frenchman held off Peter Uihlein last year to win a fourth European Tour title, making it 14 different winners in 14 stagings of the event at the 2010 Ryder Cup venue.
“The last round was amazing, and especially the last few holes,” said Bourdy, who fired a closing hat-trick of birdies in his final round 67.
“I won my first three tournaments when I was leading after the first three rounds. This time was different, I was behind and I had a very good last round, especially the last three holes were amazing. So when I played yesterday I had some good memories about this place.”
The 32 year old has missed six of his last 12 cuts in an indifferent campaign by his lofty standards, but feels he could be close to finding some consistent form.
“I feel good now,” he added. “I did not play so well the last few weeks, but my game is good and I feel confident to play on a course that I like. I expect to be ready to produce something great this week.”
With Ryder Cup hype swelling by the day before next week’s contest at Gleneagles, Bourdy expects to see those who will feature for Europe contending on Sunday.
He continued: “It’s a good feeling this week; these guys have to play well to get confidence for next week and ensure that they are ready, and show the captain they are ready to play many matches.
“It’s going to be a great week on a great course, a challenging course. There is a good feel around here so everything is there for a great week.”
