Travis Smyth says winning the AVJennings NSW Open would go some way to repaying the faith Golf NSW have shown in him from a young age.
The 24-year-old Shellharbour professional is poised for his breakthrough title here at Twin Creeks Golf and Country Club in western Sydney after three sub-70 rounds (T3 at -16).
“Growing up part of the Golf NSW program, they’ve put so many hours and money towards me and my career,” said Smyth, who is the final group tomorrow.
“I wouldn’t be where I am without Golf NSW and Golf Australia. To be able to win our state open would be amazing. It would make them proud and make me proud. I don’t want to think about it too much just yet, but hopefully, I’ll be here tomorrow and we’ll have it (the trophy).”
Golf NSW General Manager Graeme Phillipson said Smyth would be a popular winner if he were to lift the Kel Nagle Cup.
“We’d love to see him win his first professional event here in NSW, in an event that has been part of the Australian golfing landscape for almost 90 years, and with some of the greatest names in Australian and world golf etched onto the Cup,” Mr Phillipson said
“The Golf NSW High Performance Program has always aimed to produce tournament winners, so to see Travis win would be exciting and show we are on the right path. With Travis, we have not only helped produce a fine player but a great person who we are proud to be associated with.
“To have three young New South Wales players in the last two groups is exciting for us, regardless of who wins. We wish them all the best.”
