Qualifying School winner Nathan Kimsey makes his European Tour debut at this week’s Alfred Dunhill Championship at Leopard Creek looking to savour and enjoy the week and season ahead.
A fortnight ago Kimsey became only the second player in history to navigate through all 252 holes and three qualifying stages to win the Qualifying School Final Stage. Since then it has been a whirlwind two weeks as he embarks on a new chapter in his golfing career among the European Tour elite.
“It was obviously a great week,” he said reflecting on his victory at PGA Catalunya Resort. “There is a bit in my head where I think it is not real. I am sure once I have been here on Tour for a few weeks and met more guys on the range I will be more used to it and it will start to sink in.”
One of the first tasks is getting used to lining up on the range with stars of the European Tour, and the practice facilities do not come any better than here at Leopard Creek with the new 55 hectare range and 9-hole par 3 course.
“This practice facility here is incredible. You could spend weeks here and not get bored. I saw Darren Clarke driving past in a buggy and sure during the week when I find myself next to some of the guys on the range it will be a bit surreal first off. But I have to get used to that pretty quick as that will happening every week this year. It’s good fun to be part of these events.”
There is a bit in my head where I think it is not real. - Nathan Kimsey
Kimsey was part of the same Walker Cup team in 2013 as Matt Fitzpatrick and Callum Shinkwin, and watching their progress gives him confidence that he too can make his mark on the Tour.
“It has been great to watch Matt especially with his wins, playing Ryder Cup,” said Kimsey. “He has had an incredible couple of years and gone from strength to strength. Having played with him at amateur level three or four years ago, it does help you think if he can do it, I can do it, coming from similar background through the England squads. You know back then your games were not too far apart and hopefully I can catch him up.”
As for the challenge of Leopard Creek this week, Kimsey is relishing the opportunity. “The course itself is unbelievable. Take it away from its setting and it would still be awesome but with its place on the edge of the park, some of the views on the back nine like the one on the 13th, it is just phenomenal.”
As to the future, this week and the rest of the season, his goals are simple.
“First and foremost I want to enjoy it, especially this week being my first event. But same through the season being my first year out here. Hopefully play some good golf and see where that gets me.”
