LIVING THE DREAM

Augusta fairytale now a reality for Belfast's Matt

- DARAGH SMALL

AN optometrist from Malone Golf Club will become part of the legend that is the Masters when he competes in the first major of the year at Augusta next week.

Matt McClean overcame fellow Irishman and friend Hugh Foley in the final of the 41st US Mid-Amateur to qualify.

That victory at Erin Hills last September put McClean on track for a unique 2023 fixture list.

He will play at Augusta next week and feature at the US Open later in the year. It's a real-life fairytale and one he is desperate to make the most of.

However, he knows the history that's there - no one has ever succeeded as an amateur in the Masters - and there are other goals to set his sights on.