A collection of Kiwis have secured their playing rights on the PGA Tour of Australasia following the conclusion of the final stage of the qualifying school event in Melbourne.
Brad Shilton, who carded an even-par 72 in his final round yesterday, was the best of the New Zealanders at thefour-round event at The Victoria Golf Club as he finished in third at seven-under for the week, two strokes back from Australian winner Edward Stedman (-9).
Perth-based Kiwi Michael Long claimed fifth at six-under after he signed for a final round 73, while Wairarapa's Ben Campbell was ninth at four-under.
The winner of this week's event, that had a field of 75 players, earned A$4000 (NZ$4164), a higher level of exemption on tour and better incentives to play internationally on the OneAsia Tour this year.
Players were chasing a spot inside the top 50 to secure their tour cards. Those ranked 26-50 following this week's event hold limited status but those from 2-25 have a better chance of gaining a start in most of the events on tour in 2015.
Daniel Pearce, who finished in 15th at two-under, and Harry Bateman (20th, even par) were the other Kiwis who finished inside the top 25. Sven Puyembroeck (30th, +3) and amateurs Josh Munn (38th, +5) and Hayden Beard (44th, +6) all finished inside the top 50 but only hold limited playing rights for 2015.
Mathew Perry, who played well on the PGA Tour China circuit last year, missed his card after he finished 53rd at 10-over, while amateurs Vaughan McCall (55th, +10) and Campbell Rawson (69th, +17) were also off the pace.
