Took up golf aged 12 and had a plus two handicap by the time he was 16. Father Giorgio played baseball for Italy’s national team. Met his coach, Jakabo Guido, after a chance encounter at the 2006 Qualifying School. The pair met on the driving range at San Roque Club and struck up an instant rapport. Was unsuccessful in 2006, but after a year working with Guido, returned to San Roque Club to win the 15th available card on what was his tenth appearance at the Qualifying School. His prodigious length from the tee will make him one of The 2008 European Tour’s longest drivers.