By Maree Rudd
PGA Euro Pro Q-School 2022 supported by Sky Sports.
Stage 1 Q-School at Formby Hall GC was tough going, the weather was not kind to us. The organisers and course team did a sterling job to keep the course playable after some torrential downpours. David was pleased to put in a solid performance to finish T2 and secure a place at the Final Stage of Q-School at Stoke by Nayland GC.
We headed home to Edinburgh get some rest and put in some concentrated practice sessions at Archerfield Links and Longniddry GC before the Final Stage.
We arrived at Stoke by Nayland for the first practice round on Monday 11th October, the Autumn colours beginning to appear in the trees, warmer climes than Scotland, it is all looking good. The two courses around the resort are very similar in nature, winding through the beautiful undulating countryside. There is plenty water around, which is a bit of a tease for me, having abandoned my Wild Swim Scotland business to come and caddy for David again this week. I look longingly at reedy ponds, with “No Swimming” signs and sigh!!!!
However, some experiences and some people are worth giving up your time for. We arrive for a very early tee time for round 1 on Wednesday 13th October and are rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise. I blind myself taking photos and videos, nature is special isn’t it?
The first frost of the year accompanies this glorious morning and as the golfers warm up, so the sun melts this white crystals, returning the fairways and greens back to their vibrant colours.
David puts in a solid performance on Day 1, and gives himself confidence to come back again on Day 2 and secure a spot on the final day. His newly fitted Titleist Driver helping him to hit the fairways accurately. In fact on day 2 he plays with an air of confidence I have not seen him with before. The playing card he had set his sights on is now secured for 2022.
On the range – Pre Dawn 
Final day – All set
The final day arrives and David delivers another solid performance. He has had a super week, the players in each of his groups adding to the occasion. He finished Tied 38th at -4 for the tournament. This will ensure he can play in all the Euro Pro events scheduled in 2022.
We return to Scotland very excited and hopeful that David can build on this, his first year as a full time Professional Golfer. He is still only 21, with lots to play for and a platform on which to lay those strong foundations. Nothing like getting started, he has to hit the ground running as we head North to MacDonald Spey Valley Championship GC where David has the most difficult game of the year!!!!
Youth v Elders