PAMELA PRETSWELL LOOKING FORWARD TO AMATEUR SEASON

By COLIN FARQUHARSON
Colin@scottishgolfview.com
Pamela Pretswell's failure to graduate to the professional ranks at last month's Ladies European Tour Q School was disappointing for the Hamilton-based 22-year-old.
But the silver lining is she is not planning to relinquish her amateur status until after next January's Tour School. That means Pamela will be available for selection for the Curtis Cup at Nairn in June and to spearhead a Scottish bid to provide a home winner of the British women's open amateur championship at Carnoustie later that month.
The last Scot to win the Ladies Golf Union's flagship individual amateur event was Alison (Rose) Davidson in 1997, when, curiously enough, the venue was also Scottish - Cruden Bay - and there were TWO Scots in the final. Alison beat Mhairi McKay 4 and 3 in the 18-hole final.
Then, of course, Scotland's bid to win back the Women's Home Internationals title at Cork GC, Ireland in September will be considerably enhanced with Pretswell in the squad.
"I was disappointed not to make it at Tour School last month, but having had time to reflect on the event, there are a number of positives I can take from it," said Pamela, who graduated from Glasgow University last year.
"I learned a great deal and although I came away without a tour card, I am certain that the experience will stand me in good stead for this season as an amateur and for the future.
"I will be working hard this year to make sure my game is in good shape for my return to tour school in 2013 and give myself the best possible chance to get my tour card."
 For the past four years or so, Pretswell has had to divide her time between university studies and golf, but no longer.
"The 2012 season will be different for me as I no longer have university commitments - so I am looking forward to having a full year of golf. I will also be working on a part-time basis," she said.
"I'm delighted to be selected for the Curtis Cup selection trial next month at Nairn.I loved every minute of the 2010 Curtis Cup and will be working hard to try to keep my place in the GB and I team.
"My plan is to stay amateur for 2012 and will stay amateur for Tour School in January 2013 as well. I can't wait for the 2012 season to get started - and for some warmer weather to arrive in Scotland so that I can get practising every day!"