Date: November 13, 2015
Author: Mark Hayes

Big-hitting Belgian likes Aussie chances

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Powerhouse Belgian Nicolas Colsaerts is confident he’ll be right in the mix at both the Australian Masters and Emirates Australian Open.

Colsaerts, a key part in Europe’s stunning “Miracle at Medinah” Ryder Cup triumph in 2012, will play at Melbourne’s Huntingdale next week before backing up at The Australian in Sydney the following week.

The visit will mark just the second time Colsaerts has played professionally in Australia after representing Belgium in the World Cup at Royal Melbourne in 2013.

“I am very excited to be playing in Australia this November,” Colsaerts said.

“The Australian swing has become a favourite for a lot of top players from all tours.

“I am feeling very confident with where my game is right now, so hope to be in contention on the final day.”

Colsaerts has twice finished inside the top 10 in major championships.

But his reputation as one of the game’s most powerful ball-strikers will all but ensure he generates large galleries.

Colsaerts, known to some golf fans as the “Belgian Bomber” has consistently ranked at the top of both the European and US PGA Tours through his 15-year professional career.

In 146 measured drives in Europe this year, he has an average driving distance in excess of 280m.

That power will come in more than handy on both courses of his Australian trip this summer, with reachable par-fives at both Huntingdale and The Australian.