Bryan Newman

Bryan Newman was aged just 17 when he won the Africa Amateur Championship in his native South Africa in February.

Compatriot Altin van der Merwe was the inaugural winner of the title last year and, like him, Newman triumphed at Leopard Creek. Van der Merwe came through a play-off after three players tied at 13 under par, but an eight under total of 280 was good enough for a two-stroke victory this time.

“It feels really amazing - it's so special and to do it here makes it even more special.,” he said. “It’s definitely the best course in South Africa, maybe in Africa as well.”

And on qualifying for Royal Portrush the teenager added: "It's really exciting. I can't wait.”

Runner-up in the 2023 Scottish boys championship at Lundin – and winner of the Under-16 trophy that week – he was taught the game by his father Andrew and started competing in SA Kids tournaments when he was seven.