Carlisle golfer Craig Goodfellow good bet for Euro Tour
Last updated 13:22, Thursday, 18 September 2008
Carlisle golfer Craig Goodfellow has taken a step closer to his dream of playing on the European Tour – with a bit of help from a man who’s been there, seen it and done it.
Peter Mitchell, a seasoned European Tour player who now plays on the Seniors Tour, helped Goodfellow get his game into shape for his attempt to join the showcase of golf this side of the Atlantic.
Goodfellow teaches at Mitchell’s academy, Carlisle Driving Range, and turned to his boss for advice for the Tour School first qualifier at Dundonald Golf Club in Ayrshire.
The 33-year-old Carlisle golfer was leading by three shots after his opening round of 69, before finishing second with his four-round total of 285, one shot behind winner Euan Little.
Goodfellow claimed one of the 23 spots to advance to the second stage of European Tour qualifying in Southern Spain, starting on November 5.
The final qualifying stage will see hopefuls slug it out over six rounds at Catalunya, starting on November 13. The prize will be a place alongside Ryder Cup stars Padraig Harrington, Sergio Garcia and Lee Westwood on next year’s European Tour and the consolation could be a spot on the Challenge Tour.
Goodfellow has been boosted by sponsorship from Carlisle businessman Mark Duncanson, which has taken the financial burden away from trying to qualify.
He said: “The aim is to make the top 30 at the final qualifying stage and get on to the European Tour.
“Working and teaching at Carlisle Driving Range has taken the pressure off my game as I can go and play and not have to worry about the finances.
“Peter Mitchell has been helping me with my game and given me some good advice and tips, so that will stand me in good stead.”
