Northern Ireland’s Alan Dunbar struggled to post a three over par 75 on the opening day of qualifying for the 2013 European Tour Qualifying School.

The current British Amateur champion recorded five bogeys and just two birdies to be sharing 34th place and seven shots adrift of Sweden’s Nils Floren who carded a four under par 68 at Wychwood Park Golf Course in Creww.

Dunbar is forgoing the chance to compete in next April’s Georgia Cup and following week’s U.S. Masters in the hope of gaining his full European Tour card.

If the 23-year does go all the way and secures his card then he will forfeit the opportunity to tee up on Augusta National.

“I would have to think long and hard if I got my card,” he said.

“It would be a choice betwween a marvellous experiences competing at Augusta and 20 or so definite stars on the European Tour with the potential of making money.”

Ninety-three players teed-up at Crewe with the number down to 91 after two withdrawals.

The leading 20% will then progress to November’s Second Stage in Spain.