Michael Smith is not setting his sights too high today.
As long as he can fire a 64 at Clearwater in the morning, then sit back and watch the Black Caps rack up 400 for two against Australia, he will be a happy man.
Smith is taking a break from his day job at Sport Otago to play in the New Zealand Open, being held at the course near Christchurch for the first time.
He qualified for the tournament by shooting a 4-under-par 68 in the final qualifying event at Russley on Monday.
"Playing in the Open has always been a goal. It's something that will be nice to say I've done," Smith said yesterday.
"I just want to enjoy it. If it goes well, it will be a bonus."
Smith was unable to practise on Clearwater yesterday as the course was hosting the Open pro-am.
He has played two previous rounds at the course - which, being flat and green, is about as different from the Open's previous venue, The Hills, as it gets - and grabbed a quick nine holes on Monday night.
"It's going to be interesting playing an event that is set up for professionals, not amateurs. We'll see how hard it is," Smith said.
"I'm sure they'll want to protect their course. They won't want amateurs to play too well. And if it blows, it will be tough."
Smith works as a golf development officer for Sport Otago and has been a regular member of Otago golf teams over the years.
He said his form had been patchy over the last six months but he shot 64 at Balmacewen recently.
Smith tees off at 8.20am today alongside fellow amateur Daniel Pearce and Australian professional Simon Furneaux.
