July 13 (Reuters) - Former supermarket delivery driver Joe Dean shot a two-under-par 68 to win the inaugural Last Chance Qualifier at Royal Birkdale on Monday, securing the final spot at the 154th Open Championship.
The 268th-ranked Englishman now faces a logistical challenge on Merseyside in North West England - finding a bed. With Southport hotels fully booked, Dean joked that he might have to pitch a tent by the putting green or sleep in his car.
"We were fortunate to get a hotel room last night, but everywhere else is booked," Dean told the BBC.
The 32-year-old's career turnaround has been remarkable.
Dean turned professional in 2016 and made the cut on his Open debut at Birkdale the following year before dropping down the world rankings.
The 268th-ranked Englishman now faces a logistical challenge on Merseyside in North West England - finding a bed. With Southport hotels fully booked, Dean joked that he might have to pitch a tent by the putting green or sleep in his car.
"We were fortunate to get a hotel room last night, but everywhere else is booked," Dean told the BBC.
The 32-year-old's career turnaround has been remarkable.
Dean turned professional in 2016 and made the cut on his Open debut at Birkdale the following year before dropping down the world rankings.
16 days ago
