There will be at least two New Zealand golfers at this month's British Open at Royal Birkdale.
Ryan Fox. Photo: Photosport
Ryan Fox has joined Michael Hendry in qualifying for the year's third Major after finishing tied for fourth at the Irish Open.
He's carded a final round four under 68 to finish on 17 under, seven shots behind the winner Spaniard Jon Rahm.
But he secures one of the three qualifying spots available for the Open.
Fox said he is relishing the chance to play at Royal Birkdale.
"I've played St Andrews a couple of years ago and it was probably the highlight of my golfing career up with the Olympics last year.
"I'd love another chance to play Birkdale. I remember watching Harrington win there.
"I'd just love to go out and see it and I'm sure my family will come over."
New Zealand golfer Danny Lee Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Meanwhile Danny Lee is currently tied for 10th midway through the last round of the Greenbrier Classic, the PGA title he's defending.
Jpaon Rahm eased to a six-shot victory in the Irish Open shattering the course and tournament record.
But his win was overshadowed by a ball-marking controversy that shone an uncomfortable spotlight on golf's complicated rule book.
As he reached the green on the sixth hole, Rahm placed his marker to the side of his ball to allow his playing partner Daniel Im to putt from further back.
However, on returning to his marker, Rahm replaced his ball to the front, putting him apparently in violation of the rules.
TV cameras picked up the incident and Irish media said organisers received emails from viewers alerting them to the possible transgression.
However, rules official Andy McPhee told Sky Sports that no penalty was imposed because Rahm "made a reasonable judgment" in replacing his ball.
