Yorkshire golf: Nigel Sweet aims to win European Senior Tour card in Portugal

Leeds Golf Centre's operations manager Nigel Sweet is turning professional in his 38th year playing the game.

Sweet, who has also won four Leeds Amateur championships, will be 50 in June and is hoping to carve out a successful career on the European Senior Tour.

Leeds Golf Centre's operations manager Sweet will take part in two senior events in Portugal before heading to Qualifying School at the end of the month.

He will join those competing at the Silves and Gramacho courses in search of a European Senior Tour card.

With the help of the Leadbetter Academy at Leeds Golf Centre, his game has continued to improve over the last 18 months, which has led to this decision.

He will tee it up in the Algarvin Open in Quinta do Lago ahead of Qualifying School, the first stage of which takes place January 28-29.

If he makes it beyond that initial 36-hole hurdle, he will then take part in the 72-hole final stage on the Pinta Course at Pestana Golf Resort.

Sweet said: “I’ve always had the desire to turn pro so it’s about time I made that dream reality. I’m in good form and I’m looking forward to getting to Portugal to see how I fare against some of the best golfers on the senior circuit.”