Cam Smith’s bid for Australian PGA redemption has satisfied him to play two occasions in his residence state of Queensland this yr.
The 2022 British Open champion is not going to solely return to Royal Queensland for a shot at a fourth Australian PGA title in November, he may also contest the Queensland PGA a number of weeks earlier at Nudgee Golf Membership.
“This yr, I’ll be enjoying in each the BMW Australian PGA Championship and the Queensland PGA Championship, which goes to be one thing completely different for me however I’m actually wanting ahead to each weeks again residence,” Smith confirmed.
“I feel enjoying at Nudgee can be good preparation for Royal Queensland and hopefully can have me at my finest to aim to take again the Joe Kirkwood Cup (by successful the Australian PGA).”
Smith, 31, received the Australian PGA crown in 2017, 2018 and 2022 however final yr was distraught after his title defence ended after simply two rounds after lacking the reduce with a 36-hole rating of nine-over 151.
“It’s not acceptable. It’s very upsetting, truly,” he mentioned on the time whereas choking again tears.
LIV star Smith intends on returning to the highest of the leaderboard this yr at Royal Queensland and can also be eyeing success on the October 31-November 3 Queensland PGA, an occasion during which he completed joint runner-up in 2015 behind New Zealand’s Ryan Fox at Metropolis Golf Membership in Toowoomba.
“Coming residence to Queensland is a spotlight of my yr,” he mentioned.
“It’s at all times particular to be again enjoying in entrance of my household, mates and all of the golf followers and hopefully being up close to the lead.
“In fact I’d like to win each however it’s going to be troublesome with the fields that can be on the two tournaments.”
Others chasing glory on the November 21-24 Australian PGA – an occasion co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour of Australasia and the DP World Tour – embody defending champion Min Woo Lee and former world No.1 Jason Day, who each represented Australia at this yr’s Paris Olympics.
Smith’s Australian schedule additionally contains the November 14-17 NSW Open on the Murray Downs Golf and Nation Membership.
PGA of Australia chief government officer mentioned Smith “appealed to all ages of golf followers”.
“All of us love seeing Cam enjoying golf again in Australia,” Kirkman mentioned.
“I’m positive he’ll be decided to placed on an amazing present in entrance of his residence crowd this yr at each Royal Queensland and Nudgee.
“Profitable the Joe Kirkwood Cup for the fourth time would consolidate his place as one of many greats of Australian golf.”
Queensland Minister for Tourism and Sport Michael Healy mentioned it was a “coup” luring the “legendary” Smith residence once more.
“The (Australian PGA) line-up is already looming as the most well liked ticket on the town,” Healy mentioned.
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner mentioned: “We’re thrilled Cam Smith will be part of a set of world class athletes to tee off at two must-see occasions for native and visiting golf followers.
“The advantages of those elite tournaments can be felt throughout the area, delivering tens of millions in financial help for native Brisbane companies.”