Golf: John Henry safely on to Alps Tour after carding 67

JOHN Henry’s recovery from a quadruple-bogey nine early in his first round continued in spectacular fashion on day two of the final stage of the Alps Tour Qualifying School.

A five-under-par 67 on Campo America at La Cala in Spain catapulted the Clydebank man into joint 21st, meaning he has earned playing rights for the third-tier circuit next season along with compatriots Ross Cameron and Michael Stewart.

Sitting on two-under 142, Henry is seven off the lead heading into the final round, which features 70 players who have ­already earned cards and are now just competing for the highest membership category.

Facing a fight to be among the top 65 and ties making the 36-hole cut after his opening 75, Henry started with an eagle and went on to cover his opening eight holes in six-under. His success is the second golfing achievement for the Henry family this year after older brother Scott graduated to the European Tour off the Challenge circuit.

Cameron and Stewart also secured their playing rights for 2013 after they both signed for level-par 72s on Campo Asia.

Ellon-based Cameron is tied for ninth on four under, while Troon man Stewart, a member of last year’s winning Walker Cup side at Royal Aberdeen, is alongside Henry. Welshman Rhys Enoch carded a ten-birdie 64 in his second round to move into a share of the lead with 
Italian Marco Guerisoli (67).

David Booth, the 2008 Scottish Youths’ champion and Stirling University team member in recent years, also secured his card. But Peterhead’s Philip McLean (75 for 155), Kirkhill’s Paul Shields (79 for 156) and Coventry-based amateur Chris Dougill (85 for 158) all missed the cut, as did Dunbar’s Neil ­Fenwick after he retired.