Chris Hanson is on the European Tour!
And the delighted Woodsome Hall golfer dedicated his Qualifying School success in Spain to his late father, John.
After sinking a massive par putt on the last hole to sneak through on seven under par for six rounds, Hanson Tweeted: “OMG! What just happened! This week’s for you dad!”
The top 25 and ties got Tour cards for 2016 and Challenge Tour player Hanson – who has been working for this his whole career at Crosland Heath and now Woodsome Hall – was the last man through after shooting a final-round 78.
That was six over par and by far his worst score of the week at PGA Cataluyna Resort.
He had earlier posted rounds of 70, 63, 66, 71 and 73 and while it was a close-run thing at the end, Hanson is now among the elite of Europe’s golfers with a full Tour card.
“Chris must have been pretty nervous and he certainly makes life hard at times – but what an achievement!” said Woodsome Hall club professional John Eyre.
“Everyone is just so proud and delighted because he deserves it, and his family will be absolutely thrilled.
“He lost his dad, John, a few years ago but I’m sure he’ll be looking down now just full of pride.
“I always thought Chris would end up on the Tour and he’ll probably find things easier now he has actually got there, rather than trying to qualify for his card.
“A lot of very good players have not been able to get over that final hurdle and earn a Tour card, but Chris has done it and I’m sure he’ll now do very well.
“I also hope the sponsors come flooding in for him as well. This is a great opportunity for people to support Chris, and I hope sponsors take advantage of this brilliant opportunity.”
Hanson turned professional in 2006 and won four times on the Europro Tour before graduating to the Challenge Tour three years ago.
He qualified for the Open Championship at Royal Liverpool (Hoylake) in 2014, but winning a Tour card is the highlight of his career.
“The whole club and everyone in Huddersfield golf has been rooting for Chris because, having fallen short in the past, he’s now done it,” added Eyre.
“I’ve known him a long time, from Union coaching to Yorkshire coaching and then to working with him one-on-one, and while he broke away a few years ago, this achievement gives everyone who knows him a massive sense of pride.”
