Zach Murray has used his local knowledge to secure a start in this year’s NSW Open at Twin Creeks Golf and Country Club with a dominant win in the Albury Regional Qualifying event over the weekend.
Murray, of Wodonga, posted scores of 6-under 64 at Commercial-Albury on Saturday, and followed it up with an even-par 72 on Sunday to win by seven shots from Canberra’s Jordan Ayre.
“ I played well. It was a good result, 11 birdies and five bogies at Albury on Saturday. It’s pretty much my home course.”
“I was more consistent on Sunday,” he said.
A member of the Interstate Series winning men’s Victorian team this year, Murray is familiar with the demands of tournament golf and the NSW Open will be another opportunity for the 20-year old to test himself against Australian golf’s best. He’s already looking forward to the challenge.
“I’ve already played in a few Tier One events, so I’m looking for some good results and setting myself up for a consistent Summer.”
Murray has also been fortunate to have the help of former AFL star Jason Akermanis as a part-time caddie and mentor. He said having the Brownlow Medallist and three-time AFL Premiership winning legend on his bag had given him a whole new perspective about his level of preparation and approach to the sport.
“We’ve had a few good chats about a professional approach to practice, the level of work required. Even this week, at the Keperra Bowl in Queensland, working on what I need to do for next week at the WA Open.”
“He’s also taught me about taking things in my stride and always learning.”
Victorian Ben Eccles was the last amateur to win the NSW Open just two years ago, and when asked about the chances of following in his State counterpart’s footsteps, Murray displayed an air of confidence.
“Absolutely, I feel I am a chance. My game is coming along well. Hopefully, I’ll give it a crack,” he smiled.
Murray knows too that one good week can go a long way towards changing your career goals.
“One good week can change your life in this sport. It can come at any stage, and you need to be ready,” he smiled.