Oscar Lengden is hopeful of raising his game to new heights on his return to the Swedish Challenge hosted by Robert Karlsson – the scene of his best finish to date on the European Challenge Tour.
Last season the Swede was firmly in contention at Katrineholms Golfklubb, missing out on a spot in a three-man play-off by just one shot after delighting the home crowds to claim a share of fourth place.
After that breakthrough performance, the 25 year old went on to finish in the top five on the 2016 Nordic Golf League’s Order of Merit to earn full status on the Challenge Tour for 2017.
Yet to match the heights of last year’s outing, Lengden admits he has work to do if he is to reach his goals – but believes he can find inspiration by competing on home soil once again.
“Obviously last year was special,” he said. “It was my first Challenge Tour event at home, only my second appearance on the Challenge Tour too, and to play in front of great Swedish crowds who were cheering my name was a fantastic experience.
“It was also my first Challenge Tour event where I was in contention. I remember coming down the stretch and there was a lot of pressure on my shoulders, I really felt every aspect of my swing under that pressure as well.
“Having felt those emotions, I do feel a lot more confident that I can cope in those situations. I have not quite been in contention yet this season, but I am hoping now that I am
back here that I can produce an even better performance than last year.”
Lengden, who hails from Helsingborg in southern Sweden, arrives at this year’s tournament feeling well-rested after taking a break – a move that worked to his advantage last season.