South Oxhey Luke Groves says he had no expectations prior to winning his first professional event

The 22-year-old from South Oxhey only turned professional last week, but on Monday marked his elevation to the professional ranks by shooting a four-under par 68 at The Buckinghamshire to win his first TP Tour event.

Groves finished two shots ahead of Adam Gee and Tom Wade and netted £900 in prize winnings.

“That event was just to ease me in, having just turned; I had no expectations so I was not expecting to win it,” admitted Groves. “There were some big names in there – ex-European Tour, Challenge Tour guys – but I just had to go and play my game and show what I could do on that stage. To win was absolutely huge – it was a good boost.”

He continued: “It took a little while to sink in. I played with Mike McLean, who has played on the European Tour, so it was a bit of a shock and a great opportunity. I played well and got a lot off him.

“It was absolutely massive [playing with Mike McLean]. He is of an older generation and I think it shows where the gym work and technology comes into the game. It was good but nerve-wracking.”

And Groves, who has set his sights on one day joining the European Tour, believes his sudden turnaround from amateur to professional helped ease his nerves.

He explained: “That was massive [the quick turnaround]. I flew back from Florida and just two days later I signed with my management company Jenahura, and a week later they get me on my first event, so it was really quick and that helped a lot.”

Groves will now go into his next event at the Monte Rei Resort (November 29 to 30) with a similar approach to his maiden event.

He said: “I’m just going to go out there and do my best. My name is known now so I guess there might be a little bit of expectation on me but I have no expectations of myself.

“I have to thank my manager Martin Norris, my management company, James Wright at Oxhey Park Golf Club, my sponsors Ping and my dad, because I would not be where I am now without him.”