Heather closes in on tour target

Heather MacRae will have a chance to realise her long-term ambition of clinching a card on the Ladies European Tour in Turkey this week.

The Gleneagles-attached PGA pro can secure a place among Europe’s elite with a strong finish in the Mineks Ladies Classic at the National Golf Club.

MacRae (pictured with boyfriend Chris Kelly) is currently riding high in fifth place in the Access Series Order of Merit and if she can maintain her position will achieve her target for the year.

“It is so tight between fourth and 10th place in the Order of Merit so I need to perform well but I’ve got every chance,” said the 30-year-old.

In an impressive season, MacRae won Sweden’s Solvesborg Open while in her last two events she was tied third at the Grecotel Amirandes Ladies Open in Greece and followed that up finishing tied ninth at CostaBlanca Ladies Open in Spain.

MacRae has spent the past few days caddying for Cawder’s Chris Kelly in the Titleist PGA Play-Offs at Antalya Golf Club and her boyfriend will return the compliment in her quest to reach the top table of women's golf.

“The top five get their cards so it is huge but if she goes out and plays the way she can that’s it, there are only two or three that can compete with her," said Kelly.

"She just has to detach herself from the situation, but they will all be feeling the pressure it’s all about who can deal with it.”

MacRae has always nursed an ambition to play at the highest level but after missing out at tour school decided to qualify as a PGA Professional – a decision she has never regretted.

“I’m glad I did my PGA training when I did and it’s actually helped when I’m playing in tournaments,” she said.

“I know more about the golf swing rather just setting up and hitting it. It’s also a good back up if things on tour don’t work out.

“I went to college in the States and I would love to get on the LPGA Tour in America but first I need to get on tour in Europe.”