Hamer chasing Tour passport

Martyn Hamer

LOCAL professional Martyn Hamer has had to put his birthday celebrations on hold.

Hamer, from Chadderton Fold, spent his 23rd birthday yesterday teeing off his latest bid to win a playing card for the European Tour.

He was playing the first of four rounds at the Oxfordshire, knowing that only 20-per-cent of the field progress to the final phase in Spain.

Hamer, who fell at the final last hurdle 12 months ago, is hoping to go all the way this time.

He said: “There are about 800 players at Tour School bidding for 30 playing cards, which underlines how tough it is.

“But I have been in good form over the past month and feel confident.

“I have been driving and putting well, so that is over half my game. I only hope it can continue this week.”

Rory McIlroy and Oliver Fisher are two top young players who have emerged from Tour School to establish themselves on the European circuit.

Hamer has had some good news with Dave Fricker agreeing to sponsor him for a further 12 months through his company Touchstar (formerly Telecom Applications).

That support may enable Hamer to return to South Africa where he spent last winter.

And of more immediate importance, Fricker’s help has enabled Hamer to employ a caddie this week.

Last year he hired Roy Robinson, caddie to European Tour player Gary Houston, but he is unavailable this time. If Hamer progresses to Spain, the pair will be reunited.

Ellesmere, where Hamer is assistant professional, are holding a fundraising shotgun competition for him on Sunday, October 12.

This will help to cover his costs, which include a £1,250 entrance fee for Tour School, before travel and accommodation is taken into account.

FORMER Oldham member Marcus Armitage is also at The Oxfordshire this week.

Armitage, now a member at Howley Hall, is believed to be the only player to have represented both Lancashire and Yorkshire as an amateur.