Stewart makes it to British Amateur final

BY Anthony Powter | World Amateur Mens Tour | 2007 British Amateur Championship | Semi-Finals | 23 Jun 2007

Irrespective of what transpires at Royal Lytham & St Annes tomorrow, Tim Stewart comes away from the British Amateur a true champion. Stewart is the first Australian in over 50 years to make the final after winning his quarter-final 1 up against Spain’s Jorge Campillo and then getting through by the narrowest of margins in his semi-final against Callum Macaulay, 1 up.

“At least no one can accuse me of not being committed,” Stewart commented after he secured his place against American Drew Weaver in the championship final.

Stewart now has the chance to move his amateur career to the next level. The British Amateur champion gains automatic starts in next month’s British Open in Carnoustie and the Masters Tournament next April, so there’s a lot a stake for both Weaver and Stewart in tomorrows 36 hole final.

How then does the 22-year-old meet his greatest challenge to date?

Stewart in my books must be considered one of the best amateurs in the world at match play. His game, especially his demeanour, suits match play. He has the knack of assessing the situation when in the heat of battle and executing the right shot that minimises errors. Traits that are vital around Royal Lytham.

Patience certainly is one of his best attributes as a golfer and it’s certainly been a pivotal factor here this week, where Stewart has experienced more than his fair share of tough matches. His fourth round comeback against Garry Boyd when the Australian was 3 down through 13 was all class and determination.

Stewart remains cautious about not thinking too much ahead.

“I faced two tough opponents today and as a result had two tough matches. It certainly feels a great moment, but you have to bear in mind that there is still work to be done.”

Stewart all week has kept his game in check, considering the risk/reward shot when his been in trouble and keeping patient around the tight Royal Lytham layout where hazards are abundant.

“All week, I’ve just tried to stay very patient. They’re long days and you need to keep focus as this course can jump up and get you.”

“Even though I was down most of the way for both matches today, I knew that if I felt nervous, that meant that he had to be nervous as well.”

“I just tried to play as solid as I could and hole some putts at the right time and let the rest unfold. That’s how it panned out and I’m thrilled about the opportunity I have playing in the final tomorrow.”

Drew Weaver will certainly be a formidable opponent for Stewart.

Weaver plays out of Virginia Tech in the US collegiate system. In 2004, he won the North & South Junior championship and was runner up in the 2006 Southern Amateur. The American made the top 36 in the 2006 US Amateur and was runner up, after loosing in a playoff, at the Aloha Purdue Collegiate Invitational in Hawaii.

Weaver will be looking to break the run of “near misses” and is described by Virginia Tech Head Coach, Jay Hardwick, as “possessing enough talent, desire and, quite frankly, the expectation to become the next All-American at Virginia Tech.”

The British Amateur final will certainly be a test of nerves. Things will be a little tight and that’s expected, as the British Amateur Championship is one of the most sought after titles in the world.

Stewart is ready for this challenge. In the hotel where all the Australians are staying, Stewart was quietly taking in what he’s achieved this week with his mates. Everyone supporting Stewart and it makes for an excellent stage for tomorrow’s final.

“I am expecting to be nervous, but I am not really surprised about that. I think I will just have to stick to my routine, be patient and play the best that I can, that is all that I can expect from myself.”