Chris Wood was due to make a rare appearance for his club, Long Ashton, in the Bristol and District League last Thursday but instead found himself playing at Wentworth with Darren Clarke and Chubby Chandler. Such is the price of fame.

The occasion was an International Sports Management day and Wood, the amateur sensation at the Open at Royal Birkdale, was being wooed by Chandler, who runs ISM. Having withdrawn from the English Amateur Championship, which starts tomorrow, Wood will turn professional, probably within the next few days.

“I haven’t got an agent but I’ve got several offers to consider,” he said. “I’m keen to turn pro. That’s why you practise every day. I’ve got a great opportunity now.”

Wood has already received an invitation to the Quinn Insurance British Masters at The Belfry on September 25-28. His management company are the promoters of that event.

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