'I have to keep pinching myself' - Open debutant Hutsby

Sam Hutsby has been a professional since 2009

Portsmouth's Sam Hutsby is "ecstatic" to be competing in his first major as the 152nd Open gets under way at Royal Troon.

The 35-year-old, who practises at Hedge End Golf Centre in Hampshire, plays with American Mason Anderson and Japanese player Masahiro Kawamura in the first two rounds.

"I have to keep pinching myself," Hutsby told BBC South Today.

"It’s taken me nearly 20 years to qualify for The Open and to finally do it is such an incredible feeling.

"The hard work and sacrifice I put in is for moments like this; I’m ecstatic to be here."

Hutsby, scheduled to tee off at 11:26 BST, reached The Open after emerging top from the Dundonald Links qualifier with a round of eight under par, three shots clear of the rest.

The 35-year-old, ranked 498 in the world, is relishing the prospect of competing against the likes of Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy on the biggest stage.

"It’s going to be a real challenge," Hutsby said.

"I’m really looking forward to it, not trying to put too much pressure on myself but I’ll try and use this experience to build on for my career."

The Portsmouth man arrived at the course almost a week in advance, enjoying multiple practice rounds and soaking up the atmosphere on the Ayrshire coast.

"I haven’t been in a major before, I wouldn’t normally get to a competition this early," he added.

"There’s been this incredible support on the course already, it’s been incredibly overwhelming and I can't wait."