Zach Murray’s rapid ascension within the professional ranks is set to continue in 2019 after the 21-year-old Victorian earned playing rights at the Asian Tour’s Qualifying School in Thailand

Played over five rounds across the 36 holes of the Lake View Resort and Golf Club in Hua Hin, a strong contingent of Aussie hopefuls teed it up from Boxing Day seeking status for the coming year but only Murray and Daniel Fox were successful.

While it was cause for celebration for both Murray and Fox two further Australians were left with the most bitter of Q School tastes, Jack Munro and Kade McBride both finishing outside the top 35 and ties by a single shot at 9-under par, shooting 68 and 74 respectively in the final round.

Winner of the Nexus Risk TSA Group WA Open whilst still an amateur in October, Murray turned professional prior to the Australian Open to take up membership of the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia and was tied for 40th at the Australian PGA Championship.

Rounds of 68-64-67 had Murray at the top of the leaderboard through 54 holes in Thailand, closing out his maiden Q School appearance with rounds of 66-69 to finish fourth, three shots behind medalist Austen Truslow from America.

Speaking after his third round, Murray said it was pleasing to transfer his strong form as an amateur into the professional arena so early in his career.

“Everything is running smoothly at the moment,” Murray said.

“I had a few good results this year. I got into the round of 16 at the US Amateur Championship and two months ago I won a professional event as an amateur – the Western Australia Open.

“I only turned professional a month ago for the Australian Open so earning an Asian Tour card for the 2019 season will be fantastic.”

Murray’s win at the WA Open propelled him some 500 places up the Official World Golf Rankings and he will start his first full year as a pro ranked 806th in the world.

With close friend Braiden Young on the bag, Murray said in a post on Instagram that he was excited at what lay in store in the New Year.

“Unreal to finish 2018 by finishing 4th at Asian Q School,” Murray wrote.

“It’s been a crazy year, from turning pro to falling in love with Lionel Richie.

“Thank you to everyone around the world who keeps their eye on all the news, it’s super to have all your support.

“Giddy up for 2019.”