Alvaro Ortiz has become the first Costa Rican golfer to earn a spot on the starting field of the prestigious British Amateur Championship. The 38-year-old is playing in the world's most important amateur event at Royal Lytham & St Annes golf course in Lancashire, England, which began yesterday and ends Sunday, according to a statement from the Costa Rican National Golf Association (ANAGOLF).
“I'm very pleased about reaching one of my goals for the current season. Because of its strong field and rich history, playing the British Amateur promises to be a memorable experience,” Ortiz said. “Since my return to amateur golf, I set my sights on making it to the world's top events, and no amateur event is as important as the British Amateur.”
The first stage of the championship involves 288 players, each of whom plays two rounds of 18 holes, one on each of the two courses. Those who score the lowest over the 36 holes and those who tie for 64th place will go on to compete in the match-play stage of the championship, which begins Wednesday.
“With an event of this caliber on sight, my motivation is huge... the goal is to make the top 64, and then we will see how it goes in the match-play competitions,” Ortiz said.
“Alvaro Ortiz makes us extremely proud. His presence in the British Amateur will have a huge impact in (Costa Rican) golf, especially among the youngest golfers who look up to him,” said Antonio Bruna, President of ANAGOLF, according to the statement.
The five-time Central American amateur champion made the long trip to England with long-time friend Fabrizio Bettoni, who is serving as his caddie for the tournament. |
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