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Golf: Spraggs sets sights high
BOOSTED by the shock Open victory of 200-1 shot Louis Oosthuizen at St Andrews two weeks ago, Bury St Edmunds golfer Patrick Spraggs is determined to follow in the new champion's footsteps.
As the South African strided confidently across the home of golf en route to a seven-shot triumph, hot prospect Spraggs - watching at home in Wenthorpe - vowed to one day lift that same and much coveted Claret Jug.
And, after landing a golf scholarship at East Tennessee State University (ETSU) in the United States, it is not beyond the realms of possibility.
Following a sparkling performance at the Palmer Cup at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland - a student equivalent of the Ryder Cup - the 19-year-old was offered the chance of a lifetime opportunity by ETSU coach Fred Warren.
"I couldn't quite believe it when this guy came up to me and offered me the scholarship," said Spraggs, a Stowmarket Golf Club member.
"It is a massive opportunity for me to realise my dream of becoming a professional golf star and I can't wait to start the programme now. I play, eat, sleep, walk and talk golf and this means everything to me."
The three-year scholarship starts at the end of August and will involve 24 hours of academic studies every week, before the 19-year-old will be free to grab as much golf practice and coaching as possible thereafter.
It was the scholarship that rising star Rory McIlroy was set to undertake, before he decided to turn professional.
"This programme will take me to where I want to be," said 19-year-old Spraggs.
"It is like a mini golf tour and I will be playing alongside a lot of the top up-and-coming players in America.
"The University has state of the art facilities and this will help me reach my goal of becoming a golfing legend, like Tom Watson."
Former Framlingham College student Spraggs, who reached the second qualifying round of the Open last year, has displayed fast improvement year on year, since he first took up the sport eight years ago.
He first tasted victory at the age of 11 after he lifted the Junior Alliance Trophy. Since then he has risen through the ranks at county level, has represented England, before competing for Europe Students against America in, Northern Ireland last month.
His mother, Jane, said: "Patrick has been working so hard towards his dream of being a tour professional. We know he has the potential and ability, it is just a matter of time.
"We are all so very proud of him."
To sponsor Spraggs, call him on 07772 461497.
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Weather for Bury St Edmunds
Thursday 09 February 2012
Today
Light snow
Temperature: -2 C to 1 C
Wind Speed: 6 mph
Wind direction: North
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: -5 C to 0 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: South east
