Paxton hits top gear at Blairgowrie

Ralston Golf Club’s Greg Paxton qualified for the Glenmuir PGA Professional Championship Final at his first attempt after topping the leaderboard at Blairgowrie.

Paisley-based Paxton, 31, won the qualifying event by one shot in difficult conditions.

As he does not drive a car he only decided to make his debut in the event because Scotland is hosting the showpiece final later this year.

Paxton will join 18 other qualifiers at the £78,700 Peugeot-supported event which will return to Blairgowrie on August 5-8.

His driving of the golf variety was no problem as he started his day with an eagle at the first before dropping just two more shots on his way to a one-under-par round of 71.

Paxton pipped Andrew Crerar (Panmure Golf Club), Scott Catlin (Greenburn Golf Club) and Andrew Fullen (Largs Golf Club) who finished on level-par.

And Paxton, who is a regular on the Tarton Tour, admitted he was delighted to reach the final.

“It’s the first time I’ve entered so it’s really pleased to make the final with a decent round,” he said.

“The reason I haven’t played in it before is because I don’t drive, I rely on my father giving me lifts everywhere.

“But this year, I knew the final was in Scotland so if I qualified, I knew I’d be able to play.

“And the fact that it’s back again at Blairgowrie is good for me after winning there. I’ve played there before and know what to expect.”

Paxton admitted he had a couple of blips after getting off to an impressive start at the Perthshire venue.

“I was happy to get down in three on the par-five first, but it was cold and windy out there, it wasn’t ideal at all, and I dropped a couple of shots,” he said.

“I just told myself not to do anything stupid and make sure I qualified so I stayed safe on the back nine.

“I’ve made a good start to the year and now I’ve got a final to look forward to which is great.”

For more great images from the qualifier please click here