Alexander Bjork Takes European Tour Qualifier At De Vere Wychwood Park

The European Tour Qualifying School First Stage came to a close at De Vere Wychwood Park with some of Europe’s top amateurs and promising professionals moving a step closer to becoming members of the European Tour.

Alexander Bjork from Sweden finished in first place after firing a two-under par 70, at the Cheshire-based venue for a four-round total of four-under. He will be joined by 22 other competitors from the qualifier at the second stage of the competition, including a host of ex-Walker Cup players, such as Jonathan Caldwell, Michael Stewart, and reigning British Amateur Champion, Alan Dunbar.

“The course is very good and the fairways and greens are excellent. We couldn’t have asked for a better venue. The conditions were perfect, especially considering the weather that we’ve had all week,” noted Bjork. “I’ve never played in the UK before this week and I wasn’t expecting the course to be so undulating, but that gave the course great character.”

The 7,213 yard championship course has provided a stern test for some of Europe’s best prospects since 2010 and highlighting the popularity of the venue was the diversity of the field that included eight different nationalities. Although one player that benefitted from home advantage was Wychwood Park professional, Jason Timmis, who qualified in 9th place after impressive closing rounds of 68 and 71.

“I think it has been a challenge, evidenced by the high scoring, but the feedback from all of the players has been brilliant,” commented Jon Farmer, Director of Golf, Wychwood Park. “We’ve had a busy few weeks, having hosted both the EuroPro Tour last month, but we’re delighted with how things have gone and we’ve witnessed some great golf by some of Europe’s best up-and-coming players. Alexander played great all week, but most importantly for us, all the players have all been rich in praise for the quality of the course.”