Sports mad, Luke Harries, of Pembroke, seen above with his dad and caddie, could soon find himself following in the footsteps of Lee Westwood by teeing-up on the other side of the Atlantic.
During Whitsun, 10-year-old Luke travelled to Gullane, East Lothian (home of Muirfield), to compete again at the US Kids Golf European Championships, where over 500 competitors descended from 36 nations, from Wales to as far afield as Australia!
It's been quoted that "The tournament is the most prestigious of its' kind on the continent and offers junior players the dream chance to play at the 'home of golf' in Scotland against an international field, as well as on some of the world's oldest courses."'
After 54 holes, over three days, in glorious sunshine, but strong Scottish winds, Luke finished runner-up in his category, having led the field for most of the final round. Despite Luke's exemplary play, he was beaten to the top spot by a player from the Czech Republic.
On the fourth day, Luke represented Europe in his age group in the Van Horn Cup. This is a showpiece event, modelled on the Ryder Cup where the best European players are pitted against the top non-Europe golfers. This trophy is an honour to play for and generated great team camaraderie, with Europe retaining the trophy.
Luke will now go forward to represent Great Britain at the US Kids Golf World Championships this summer at Pinehurst Golf Resort, North Carolina. This will be Luke's fifth visit to the World Championships.
John Godwin, tournament director and former PGA Junior Leader of The Year, stated: "The skill of the players really has to be seen to be believed. Despite their age, these players demonstrated great poise, balance and professionalism. Anyone who has not watched the elite of today's junior golfers in action has missed a real treat."
Luke is a member of Tenby and South Pembrokeshire Golf Clubs. He is also a member of the Dyfed Golfing Union under 14s squad and continues to receive regular coaching from Robert Ryder.