Zane Scotland is in no mood to tamper with his winning formula as he contemplates another solid start to the MENA Golf Tour when it travels to the Maghreb for the opening two events of 2014 in Morocco later this month.
Playing with “no expectations” worked wonders for the Englishman who led from start to finish to win the Royal Dar Es Salam Open by five shots and followed it up with a runner-up place at the Royal D’Anfra Open in Mohammedia, setting the early tone for the season.
With six wins, including four in 2013 since its inception in 2011, Scotland may be the most decorated player, but he is well aware that his previous success will have little bearing on this edition of the tour.
“What has happened is history. This is a different year. You've got to play well and execute your shots and see how things pan out,” said Scotland ahead of the Royal D’Anfra Open, the opening event of the tour this season.
“Last year I went to Morocco with no expectations and the mindset is the same this time around. Of course, I have a lot of good memories from last year and enjoyed playing on golf courses in both the cities, even though the weather wasn’t all that great with frequent spells of rain and thunder showers.
“I am not thinking too much in terms of results. The idea is to stay calm and take things as they come,” added Scotland, who is also a golf in DUBAi ambassador
"The golf course in Mohammedia is quite challenging. If you're hitting from off the fairway you'll find it difficult to make the green. Generally, the middle of the green is the right place because the greens are small and firm and you don't need to do a lot to get close.
“There are many good players on the tour and anyone can have a good day at work, but I think the Moroccans would do well here because their local knowledge which will be quite handy on this course.
“I have had a pretty good break and looking forward to the challenge ahead.
Held under the auspices of the Shaikh Maktoum Golf Foundation, the 2014 MENA Golf Tour features 10 events spread across five countries in the region.
After back-to-back events in Morocco, the schedule resumes in mid-September with the eight-week ‘Gulf Swing’ which includes four stops in the UAE.
The season-ending Tour championship returns to the UAE in November at Al Ain Al Ain Equestrian Shooting and Golf Club.
With each event boasting a prize fund of $50,000 (AED183650) and the Tour Championship carrying $75,000 (AED275475) in prize money, a whopping total of $525,000 (AED1928325) will be up for grabs for members of the tour.
