Shepparton golfer looks ahead after Lonsdale golf triumph

On a challenging day for all involved on the course, the 27-year-old was one of only three golfers to break through under par with a two-under 68 seeing him home.

It could all have gone awry in the early stages, though ― and nearly did.

“It was a pretty blustery and rainy day at Lonsdale, which made it really difficult with the set-up,” Michel said.

“We knew if we could just get under-par, that could be enough, and I tried not to get too flustered when it went wrong early.”

The concern grew from sitting at two-over almost immediately due to consecutive bogeys to start the day.

With the most challenging perceived holes behind him, though, Michel saw the light.

“I was actually okay, although it’s hard because having not played the course before, I started in a relatively difficult place,” Michel said.

“I knew birdies would come, but you just have to be patient.

“I feel like I’ve become really good at that, to just stay focused on the task at hand.”

The birdies followed as foretold once Michel turned for home, with a clutch double on the final two holes securing a share of victory.

“The conditions were so tough that everyone was going to struggle, so I just had to hold it together,” Michel said.

“All day, I was two or three back, and I knew (I could win) if I could at least make one or two birdies on the final couple of holes.”

However, one thing Michel won’t do is rest on his laurels.

There will be no time for celebratory homecomings; by the time you read this, Michel will likely have already left the country on a major new venture.

“I fly out to Thailand (on Friday), for an Asian tour qualifying event,” Michel said.

“It’s a five-round tournament that 240 players will start, and the top 35 at the end will secure their place on the Asian tour.

“The plan is to get into Asia and spend most of the year travelling and playing tournaments there.

“I’m hoping I can have a good week.”