South African Open: Top 10 power rankings at Randpark GC

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JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA – DECEMBER 11: Shaun Norris of South Africa and his caddie line up a putt on the 14th hole during the completion of the final round of the Joburg Open at Randpark Golf Club on December 11, 2017 in Johannesburg, South Africa. (Photo by Luke Walker/Getty Images) /

Shaun Norris has ascended the world top 100 thanks to lights out play on the Japan Tour. How will the South African’s play translate against tougher competition?

His European Tour resume is spotty, but the 36-year-old knows the formula around Randpark. For a veteran with a fair amount of experience, it could make the difference at the South African Open.

Norris earned one of three spots into the Open Championship afforded at last year’s Joburg Open by tying for third place. Norris closed strong and was in the 60s all four days: 69-68-68-65. He mastered Randpark’s bentgrass greens with his by leading the field in putts per GIR (1.573).

Norris took advantage of his spot in the Open by tying for 61st and shooting a 68 on Friday.

Of late, Norris won the Heiwa PGM Championship in November. He recorded six top-10s in his last nine Japan Tour starts.

He won the African Open back in 2008 and has three top-15s in Africa this season.

This will be his sixth start in a row. He missed the cut the last time he was in the same position earlier this year, but he’s used to playing a ton of golf. He’s up to 32 events in 2018, played 29 in 2017 and 34 in 2016.

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