Shropshire footgolfer Tom's flying the flag for the UK - video
It's not often you find an Englishman who triumphs in a shootout. But Shropshire's Tom Wood did just that to earn his place in the UK's footgolf team.
He is lined up to play in a Ryder Cup-style clash against the Americans next spring – but needs to raise funds to help him across the Atlantic.
Tom, 25, and his 56-year-old dad Chris – who are originally from Shifnal – will head to Palm Desert in May to compete in the inaugural Jansen Cup.
The three-day competition, named after Michael Jansen, one of the sport's founders, pits the best players in the UK against their US counterparts. Tom, who works at Haughton Hall, made the 24-man team by winning a shootout event in Slough. He is appealing for help raising sponsorship for the tournament and the upcoming season. He said to help with expenses for the trip and the next sporting season, he wants to raise about £2,000.
He said: "Any help I can get would be really good. It is a really exciting prospect. The sport offers opportunities to travel to Europe but to be able to go and compete for the UK is something quite special."
If anyone would like to assist Tom call him on 07780000686.
Tom qualified for the UK team, which comprises of 24 people, after taking part in a shoot-out in Slough.
There are now more than 200 footgolf courses across the country, while the recent UK Open attracted more than 200 players from 20 different countries, all battling it out for a cash prize of £6,000.
The Jansen Cup will feature fourballs, foursomes and singles.
Tom and Chris' trip to the US will also see them compete in the Las Vegas Open, which takes place a week after the Jansen Cup.
