Schwartzel signs up for SA Open

Schwartzel confirmed his participation at the Sunshine and European Tour sanctioned event along with European Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley on Thursday. Schwartzel, the 2011 Masters Champion, is yet to win his national title the second oldest in golf and said a victory in his national Open was on his radar.

“It has always been my dream to win the SA Open trophy,” Schwartzel said on Thursday. “For me there is no bigger title outside the Majors for a South African to win.”

The SA Open was the only title missing from an impressive list of victories for Schwartzel.

“I’ve always had the SA Open very high on my list. It’s one of the tournaments I regard as one of my majors. I try not to forget where I come from. It’s the second oldest tournament in the world behind the British Open.”

Schwartzel, 29, comes off a solid, yet unremarkable season on the PGA Tour where he finished 33rd in the FedExCup standings.

The world number 18 last tasted victory on South African soil in December when he won the Dunhill Championship at Leopard Creek with a 12 stroke victory margin.

Schwartzel was the top amateur in the 2002 SA Open at Durban Country Club where compatriot Tim Clark emerged victorious.

“I watched Tim Clark receive the trophy and the joy, delight and pride were all over his face. I would like to experience that because there is something indescribable about winning your national Open. Ours is steeped in history and some of the greatest players from this country and abroad have their names on this trophy.”

Schwartzel confirmed his participation in the Alfred Dunhill Championship the week after the SA Open. McGinley, meanwhile, said he relished the opportunity to play in South Africa.

“I love playing in South Africa because the crowds are always supportive and cheerful,” said McGinley. “They just want to come out and watch great golf and support everyone. The weather is always great too.”

The other top South Africans in the field who have already committed are Darren Fichardt, Dawie van der Walt, Jaco van Zyl, Desvonde Botes, and Jake Roos.

The field will have 156 players with a two tee start. The winner of the SA Open in 2013, if he is not otherswise exempt, will gain entry to the Nedbank Challenge.

– Sapa