Disabled golfer to create history in Wales

Two-time Disabled British Open champion Duncan Hamilton-Martin will become the first amputee to compete in the Seniors Open Amateur Championship in Wales next week.

The 55-year-old from Surrey will line up on the Jack Nicklaus-designed Machynys Peninsula course in South Wales to take part in the amateur equivalent of the Open Championship for over 55s.

“This is the most prestigious title in able-bodied golf for senior amateurs this side of the Atlantic and I thought I’d give it a bash,” said the St George’s Hill member, who plays off three.

The medal event comprises two rounds on Tuesday and Wednesday for the 144-strong field with the top 60 making the cut for Friday's final round.

“I wouldn't put money on be me being there on Friday,” added the independent financial advisor from Esher, who lost the lower part of his left leg in a train accident aged just two.

“A lot of very good golfers I've spoken to have not made the third day of the event so if I did that would be a phenomenal result. I'm just very pleased to have got in. I want to produce two good rounds, if I putt well I might make Friday.”

Three weeks after his efforts in Wales, Hamilton-Martin will return to East Sussex National as he attempts to defend his Your Golf Travel.com DBO title. A successful defence would also make it three wins in the last four.

“Every time I win the people try harder to beat me. There are probably 15 to 20 people who could, if they put together two good rounds, win it. There are some very good low handicappers playing in the event and more turn up each year.”

For more information on the DBO visit www.disabledbritishopen.org

Follow @Golfmagic and join us on Facebook for all the latest golf news.