Oscar Stark is hoping he can carry on his red hot run of form at the Volopa Irish Challenge hosted by Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort.
The Swede was a joint runner-up in last week’s Cordon Golf Open on the European Challenge Tour, where he finished just one shot behind Spain’s Alvaro Velasco at Golf Blue Green de Pléneuf Val André.
Three weeks ago the 27 year old secured T16 place at the D+D Real Czech Masters, before going on to finish in the top 20 at the Bridgestone Challenge a week later on Europe’s top developmental tour.
After three successive strong performances, the Oklahoma Christian University graduate feels that he can keep up his good form at Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort this week.
“The result last week has given me a lot of confidence,” said Stark, who currently sits in 34thplace on the 2016 Road to Oman.
“It has put me in a good position going into the final events of the season and I am excited for what is to come.
“I feel that my form has been good as while I didn’t play the Rolex Trophy I did play in the Czech Masters and felt very strong that week. Fortunately, I got a top 20 finish there which was the start of my good run over the last few weeks.
“My putting is the best element of my game at the moment. Overall I have been really solid, but I would say that my mind-set has been key as I have stayed really relaxed and confident. Everything seems to be coming together at the perfect time.
“I haven’t played in China or anything before but I am really looking forward to trying to prove myself in the final events of the year. If I play solid and as good as I have done over the last few weeks then I feel that I can finish the season strongly.
“The course this week looks really good. I really like the par three 11thwhich is very picturesque and looks like a post card.
“I do love playing golf over here. I have been to Portstewart before while I was in Northern Ireland and I must say it is one of the best golfing experiences I have ever had.
“I love to play in front of a big audience, so I am excited to see the crowds this week – bring it on!”
Joining Stark in Ireland is England’s Jordan Smith, who reclaimed top spot in the Road to Oman Rankings after finishing fourth last week.
Germany’s Alexander Knappe, who is currently third in the Road to Oman Rankings after sharing second place with Stark in France, is also in the field in Carlow.
Espen Kofstad, who represented Norway at this summer’s Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, returns to action after injuring his wrist four weeks ago.
