Wales, May 28: Phillip Price hopes local knowledge will give him the edge as the European PGA Tour comes to Wales this week.
The Celtic Manor Resort, near Newport, will host the Wales Open for the fourth successive year on Thursday. And as an honorary member, Price has played more than the odd round on the picturesque and demanding Wentwood Hills course.
"I play here a lot," Price told reporters. "I know it probably better than anybody else. If I play well I've got a good chance to win. It's just up to me to put it together."
Price, a hero at last year's Ryder Cup win over the USA, showed signs he was back to his best at last week's Volvo PGA Championship at Wentworth. He recovered well after a dreadful opening nine holes on day one to finish in a tie for ninth place, and picked up his biggest check of the season.
"If I can do a few things better than last week - not be three over par for the first nine holes and putt a little better - then I should have a good week," he added.



Paul Lawrie will not be back to defend his crown, but the tournament can otherwise boast its strongest field to date. Colin Montgomerie, Trevor Immelman, who lost in a play-off last week at Wentworth, Paul McGinley and Ian Woosnam are a few of the other main contenders.



But the European Tour's strength in depth in becoming ever more evident as a new breed of youngsters start to emerge. Price added: "Monty's (Colin Montgomerie) probably the favourite. He's showing glimpses of form.



"But I think a lot of young guys can win. They are pretty fearless and I don't think they are intimidated by the top players. So there's a chance one of the younger guys can come through."


Bureau Report