Local hero Grant Forrest looking for Genesis Scottish Open 'spark'

The 29-year-old, who lives in Pencaitland, is enjoying a week in his own bed and a short commute for this week’s $8 million Genesis Scottish Open.

It’s also a home gig for Forrest in terms of the venue for the Rolex Series event as he is based at The Renaissance Club.

Helped by local knowledge, the former Scottish Amateur champion has made the cut in three previous appearances at the same venue, finishing in the top 20 two years ago.

With 14 of the world’s top-15 players in the field, he’s part of a star-studded cast on this occasion and is hoping the week can bring out the best in him.

Forrest landed that breakthrough win on the main tour in the Hero Open at Fairmont St Andrews just under a year ago, but, hindered by a hip problem, it’s been a quiet 2022 campaign for him so far.

“I’m just waiting for a wee bit of a spark this season,” he said. “I think we are all quite guilty of putting too much pressure on ourselves at times.

“Especially after you’ve had your best year so far, you expect more every year. It’s about trying to manage those expectations. A good week here can hopefully be the spark.”

With three spots on offer to non-exempt players finishing in the top 10, a big performance could get him into next week’s 150th Open at St Andrews.

“I was delighted for David Law last week,” said Forrest of his fellow Scot getting into the season’s final major through tying for fourth in the Phoenix Irish Open.

“It just shows that if you have a good week at the right time, then all of a sudden you are off and running.”

Those big names teeing up on Scotland’s Golf Coast include the four reigning major champions - Collin Morikawa (The Open), Scottie Scheffler (The Masters), Justin Thomas (PGA Championship) and Matthew