The Open Championship: Nathan Kimsey ‘in disbelief’ after securing spot

Golfer Nathan Kimsey said that he “was in disbelief” after qualifying for the Open Championship.

The 32-year-old, who plays at Stoneham Golf Club in Hampshire, shot six under par over two rounds at Royal Cinque Ports, one of four final qualifying venues, to earn a place at Royal Portrush later this month.

“Initially, I was just in disbelief,” Kimsey, who will be making his debut at a major, told BBC Sport.

“I’ve watched so many Opens over the years and to be handed that iconic yellow flag afterwards with the logo on it was just surreal.

“It’s kind of cool to know I’ll be there playing in the event. I want to enjoy it and make sure I soak up the experience, but I’ve also been playing good golf recently and I know if I go there and play well I can have a great week.

“I’ll be looking to prepare well and go into it to compete.”

Kimsey plays on the DP World Tour and earned his card after success on the Challenge Tour.

After a regional qualifying round in which about 2,000 golfers competed across 15 venues, DP World Tour and LIV golfers entered the next and final qualifying round on Tuesday.

There were 20 spots to be won across four courses with 288 golfers playing for a chance to reach Royal Portrush.

“It’s a really long day, one you just have to battle through as best as you can,” Kimsey said.

“You’re out there for about ten hours and it was a hot day, we were working away out there and I managed to play some great golf.

“I’ve got close one or two times [to qualifying] but this year I finally managed to get it done.”

The Open Championship takes place at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland from 17-20 July.