Queanbeyan locals Trent Britton and Lachlan Tisma are preparing to make their mark at the final NSW Open Golf Regional Qualifying event, hoping that playing on their home course will give them the upper hand.

With three spots up for grabs to compete in the NSW Open, both players are eager to make their mark on familiar turf.

Britton, a 25-year-old golf professional, is especially keen to play on home turf after a series of near misses in previous regional qualifiers.

“It’s good to get back to the home track and hopefully put a couple of good rounds together,” he said.

“I’ve been playing here for years, so I know where to go. But there’s also that bit of added pressure with everyone knowing and checking the scores on you too. They’ll hammer me in the pro shop if I don’t play well,” he laughed.

Despite the pressure, he’s embracing the opportunity to play in front of family and friends.

“If I won here, it’d be unreal. Growing up playing here, it would be incredible, especially if it’s my first win.”

The road to this qualifier hasn’t been easy for Britton, who struggled to gain entry into other events.

“I entered all the RQs but didn’t get a start until I got a late call-up for Catalina,” he explained.

“Unfortunately, I didn’t play as well as I wanted to there, but it feels good to be playing at my home club now.”

He sees these tournaments as crucial for his development and is eager to continue his journey.

“Golf NSW and PGA Australia do a really good job putting on these events for us pros, and it’s awesome to be part of them.”

Lachlan Tisma, 28, is also banking on his familiarity with Queanbeyan’s course to carry him through the two days. Having played at the course for 15 years, he knows the terrain like the back of his hand.

“Knowing these greens is a big thing,” he said.

“You don’t really have to second guess yourself. I’ve played here for 15 years, and I think that’s a massive advantage around here.”

Coming off a victory in a Pro-Am held at Queanbeyan earlier this year, he’s confident that his recent success can fuel another strong performance.

“I managed to win that, so I’m taking some confidence from it,” he said.

“It’s a big deal for me to play well here and hopefully qualify for the NSW Open.”

Both players aim to secure one of the three spots on offer in the NSW Open, where they will have the chance to compete alongside top professionals, including former world number two Cameron Smith.

For Britton, securing a place in the tournament would be a dream come true.

“If I got one of the three spots, that’d be massive,” he said.

“The field that’s already been assembled, with players like Cam Smith, is incredible. I played pretty well in a pre-qualifier once but missed out by a couple of shots. So, to get a guaranteed start would be huge.”

Tisma also has his sights set on Murray Downs.

“That’s what we work towards,” he said.

“It would be massive to qualify and tee it up with some of the best players in the country. That’s the goal.”

The duo understand the challenge ahead but remain focused on their game plans.

“You can’t get too comfortable, even on your home track,” Tisma said.

“It’s still a competitive field, and everyone’s pushing for those three spots. But I’ve prepared for this and just need to execute.”

Britton echoed that sentiment, noting that patience and focus will be key.

“It’s always about going out and doing your best. I’ll try to stay calm and just play my game.”

With their local knowledge, love for the game, and a community behind them, Britton and Tisma are ready to make their mark on their home course and take the next big step in their golfing careers.