European Tour: Fichardt Hangs for Joburg Open Win

Making the Open

Top finishers at the Joburg Open qualify for the Open Championship

The two runner-ups at the Joburg Open had a lot to be proud of. Each had three rounds in the 60s and played all six nines in par or better. Perhaps 72 holes would have spelled a different fate for them or any of the dozens within striking distance.

Waring even had a great look at forcing a playoff.

Alas, there’s a saving grace. The top three qualified for July’s Open Championship at Royal Birkdale. Waring explained:

"I’ve got some great memories from [Royal Birkdale]. I played on the Sunday with [Phil] Mickelson as well so I am more than happy to get back there."

Manley almost landed a career as a soccer professional. The Welshman had tryouts with top English soccer teams Manchester United, Crystal Palace and Luton in his younger days.

Now, he’ll tee it up at his first major this summer at 38 years of age and as he told Wales Online, Manley couldn’t be happier.

"I’ve been trying for many years through pre-qualifying so to get there I’m pretty pleased. The Open is massive and I can’t wait to get my teeth stuck into that golf course. I’ve never experienced anything as big as The Open before, but I can’t wait for it."

Fichardt explained in a European Tour press release that he has a bone to pick with his past attempts at Europe’s greatest championship.

"I love Birkdale and I am really looking forward to it. I think I’ve played [in the Open] six times before but I’ve had no success unfortunately."