SCOTT Nixon has qualified for the national final of the American Golf Nine-Hole Championship with playing partner Ross Holmes following an impressive performance at regional qualifying.

The pairing, both members at Fulford Heath Golf Club, took part at The Chase Golf Club and now progress to Ryder Cup venue The Belfry on September 7 and 8 where they will battle it out for the title of best nine-hole pair in the UK.

Hollywood-based Nixon and Holmes secured qualification by recording an impressive 23 points, holding off Anthony Broome and Craig Harrison from Wishaw Golf Club by a single point.

The pair now join qualifiers in front of the Sky Sports cameras with the win also putting them in contention for the Tournament of Champions in Mauritius, should they succeed at The Belfry.

“Our nine-hole championship is hugely popular,” said Daniel Gathercole, director of marketing and communication at American Golf. “It gives golfers the chance to play championship golf after work and still be home at a reasonable time.

“Golf has struggled to find a place in people’s busy lives over recent years so we’re delighted that events such as this have proved so popular. It’s clear to us the love of the game is still there, we’re just finding new ways to help them get out on the course more often.”