GOLF: IPSWICH assistant Chris Bye has missed out on a spot in the Open Championship – but rubbed shoulders with some of the big names of the golfing world.The Purdis Heath professional shot 75, 76 in the final qualifying competition at St Anne's Old Links on Sunday and Monday after clinching his spot late on Friday night.

IPSWICH assistant Chris Bye has missed out on a spot in the Open Championship – but rubbed shoulders with some of the big names of the golfing world.

The Purdis Heath professional shot 75, 76 in the final qualifying competition at St Anne's Old Links on Sunday and Monday after clinching his spot late on Friday night.

Chris, 21, hot footed it up to Lancashire on Saturday morning after he got into the competition when touring pro Stephen Scahill pulled out.

Among the golfers trying to qualify at St Anne's Old Links were American Tour Star Jeff Maggert and European Ryder Cup captains, Sam Torrence and Mark James.

Chris enjoyed his taste of the big time and was even asked for an autograph as he left the 18th green yesterday.

He said: "It was a bit daunting at first, especially when I saw some of the big names taking part.

"However, it was good fun and a good learning experience.

Chris carded six birdies on Sunday and three on Monday, but his dreams of playing in the Open at Royal Lytham and St Anne's on Thursday crashed with four expensive holes which he played in 11 over par.

"I just have to keep some of the big numbers off my cards now. I've got to be more consistent but I have achieved one of my goals for the year."

Also playing at Old Links was James Keely of Woodbridge who shot 74 on Sunday and an excellent 69 on Monday.

Alex Lucas from Fynn Valley shot two rounds of 79 at Hillside.

The final qualifying competition saw 96 players playing for just nine places on the tough links par 72 course.