Lanark golf ace Andrew helps Scotland to victory

Golf ace...Andrew Thomson from Lanark Golf Club (Pic Sarah Peters)

Andrew (17), of Murray Terrace, starred on his national debut as the Scots defeated Ireland, Wales and England at Conwy in Wales.

“It was a great experience,” Andrew said. “The standard of play was extremely high.

“Every time an opponent had a 10-foot putt I expected him to hole it, so I knew I had to do likewise.

“Fortunately, my putting was really good during the week.”

After beating Ireland 10-5 on day one, the Scots defeated Wales 9.5-5.5 on day two before beating the Auld Enemy England 9.5-5.5 on the final day.

Andrew had an impressive individual record of three points from a possible five.

This consisted of two wins (singles matches against England and Wales), two draws (singles against Ireland and foursomes versus Wales) and one defeat to England in the foursomes.

The victorious Scotland squad – aged 16 to 18 – got two trophies for their efforts.

After winning the final, the Scots celebrated with a three-course meal and fizzy juice in an Italian restaurant. This was an upgrade from after their earlier wins, when they received merely a two-course meal and diluting juice.

In the wake of his glorious victory with Scotland, Andrew’s next aim is earning a place on a lucrative golfing scholarship in America.

“I’m taking a year out just now after quitting an HND Professional Golf course at Elmwood College in Coupar,” Andrew said.

“I’m very confident about getting a place at an American college or university.

Andrew, who stands 6ft 1’’ tall despite his tender years, launches average drives of 275 yards and hits all his long shots with a high ball flight.

His golfing heroes in the professional ranks include Phil Mickelson, Rory McIlroy and Jordan Spieth.

“Phil has been my hero for a long time,” Andrew said. “It’s just because of his phenomenal short game.

“I admire how straight Rory hits the ball and how Jordan putts.

“I would love to turn pro one day.

“My dream would be to go to America, join the Web.com Tour and then graduate to the main PGA Tour. Playing on the European Tour would be great as well.”