Richie Ramsay up for his Swiss title defence

Defending champion Richie Ramsay talks to the media in CranssurSierre. Picture: Richard Heathcote/Getty

ABERDONIAN Richie Ramsay has returned to the scene of his Omega European Masters victory last year feeling far more confident about his game.

The 30-year-old won by four shots at Crans-sur-Sierre in the Swiss mountains 12 months ago and the former US Amateur champion is looking to successfully defend his title.

“I think my game is almost in a better place than it was last year,” said the Aberdonian, who was joined in the pre-tournament pro-am yesterday by the most decorated Olympian in history – American swimmer Michael Phelps, a 23-handicapper.

“A few more putts and a little bit more belief and I don’t think there is any reason I can’t repeat it.

“I’ve got great vibes from last year and the course really does suit me.

“You have to work with the altitude to work out how far the ball is going.

“At times it can be tricky as, if it is cold, it doesn’t fly but, if it is warm, it flies for miles, and that is something I did well last year.”