Allan marks his return at De Zalze

Allan Versfeld returned from a stint in Europe to compete at the Vodacom Origins of Golf tournament at De Zalze Golf Club and got straight back into the swing of it, reaching 13-under-par in just two rounds.

“You definitely learn while you’re over there (Europe). It’s been a quiet year for me, but you learn to play in different conditions and to compete against other players,” he said.

The 2011 Sunshine Tour Rookie of the Year is ready to take his maiden title, but has three strokes to cover in order to match the 16-under total that leader Ockie Strydom posted on Thursday.

“I played well today and put myself in contention for tomorrow,” said Versfeld. “But it’s still another day. You never know what the weather is going to do -- you just have to play well and hopefully it’s good enough.”

Despite having some time off from professional golf prior to the tournament, the 21-year-old wasted no time in getting into contention, shooting an opening 65 followed by a Thursday 66.

“Being back is great -- we’ve had a long break and it’s nice to play in a tournament again. I’m playing well, but I didn’t know what to expect coming here, seeing as I haven’t played a lot of golf recently. You just go through the processes and just play… whatever happens, happens. It’s been great so far,” he said.

Also returning from a spell in Europe was Darren Fichardt, whose second-round 70 gave him an early hold on fourth. His time in Europe prepared him for the wet conditions of the Western Cape.

“This is quite a bit shorter than the courses we’ve been playing overseas. Cape Town has a very European feel, especially as far as the weather is concerned. Most importantly - it’s good to be home,” he said.

Despite the numerous European Tour stars present this week, Strydom was not intimidated and said: “They are the same person as what I am – nothing changes between us. They just have the European card. I still have to get there.”

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