Firstly, a big congratulations to Daniel Fox! TI has never put Daniel among the selections but this guy just keeps on, keeping on recording his second win last week at the Coca-Cola QLD PGA Championship. TI thinks this is a lesson for many a young Pro. Daniel travelled extensively last year and played the Challenge Tour in Europe, that experience clearly assisted him in gaining his second victory on tour. The lesson is travel, play as much as you can and gain experience which will help in the future.

The man TI could pick every week Matt Millar held his head high without getting the win last week, surely a win at the City Golf Club will come in the future. Jake McLeod also played nicely and TI certainly fancies this young lad to get his first win soon – maybe he needs a hair cut first! TI saw the hair out of the man bun the other day and there is significant length, too much TI thinks.

TI has a great feeling about this week at Manawatu Golf Club; you get a fantastic vibe that the whole club is behind this event. TI has experienced some great hospitality with staff and volunteers only too keen to help out. It should be a great week around the club.

You will see a distinct local feel in TI’s tips this week and as you know TI is never far off the mark!

Number 5 – Callan O’Reilly

A popular player amongst his peers TI has noticed this guy’s consistent improvement in recent times and with his job already secure for next year it could just free Callan up to produce something special. Callan putts very well and TI feels the Manawatu layout, like last week in Toowoomba, is going to be conquered by the guy that takes his opportunities on the greens.

Number 4 – Josh Munn

A name many of you may not be familiar with but this guy is another local legend coached by Teaching Professional Andre White. An impressive amateur record had Josh primed for the Pro ranks but the transition wasn’t as smooth as he would have hoped. After some assessment and time away from the game Josh has emerged back on Tour and is loving life. Only the size of a jockey, but don’t be fooled this guy can seriously play and the Manawatu GC clubhouse would be rocking Sunday night if Josh could grab a win. TI’s advice would be for Josh to not place too much pressure on himself and enjoy the week; with brother Trent on the bag and mum’s home cooking he should have a fun week.

Number 3 – Ben Campbell

Last year’s runner up and as regular readers would know, Ben is a favourite of TI’s. Raised just down the road in Masterton and in TI’s opinion he is clearly too good a player not to win on Tour shortly. Ben will be keen to go one better this year. Sure to have some crowd support and if Ben is in the hunt on the weekend the local wild pigs down Masterton way will likely get some rest from the hunters as his mates travel north to support Ben on the golf course.

Number 2 – Michael Hendry

A passionate Kiwi, Mike plays to win when playing events all round the world but especially in New Zealand. He may just have one eye on next week’s title defence but he certainly appears to be working hard on his game and it would surprise TI if he is not a factor on the weekend.

Number 1 – Tim Wilkinson

What a homecoming it would be for the local legend that hasn’t played in Kiwi land for a number of years. He was seen working hard with coach Andre White and then passing on his knowledge and experiences to the local lads. One of the most experienced players in the field and one whom I’m sure will be keen to put in a good showing.