After a four-month absence David Drysdale and his wife/caddy Vicky arrived home to a chilly Scotland aglow after the proud Scot secured full 2024 Asian Tour membership.
Despite the final event disappointment of missing the PIF Saudi Open cut, the 48-year-old Asian Tour rookie had done enough to easily retain his card for next year.
It means a full 2024 schedule and including all of the dozen or so prestigious International Series events.
What a different scenario to near this time a year ago when the couple wondered what would unfold after he lost DP World Tour membership rights, and following more than two decades plying Europe.
Drysdale accepted his fate and headed off earlier in 2023 to the Asian Tour Q-School where he gained his Tour card albeit facing a limited schedule of what would be only 16 events.
March arrived and with the Scot accepting the challenge of competing in some 10 different countries, on golf courses he’d never seen before eventually finishing 47th on the money list, and with the top-65 earning a 2024 membership card.
DOUBLE D FULL OF PRAISE FOR MRS. D…
The @asiantourgolf top husband/wife/caddy combination arrive home to 🏴 rightfully proud of their ’23 rookie season efforts
And David singling out @vicky_drysdale 👍🥂
Read: https://t.co/P94EPGQaOo
✅ @TOURMISS @Record_Sport (Bernie) pic.twitter.com/R3EDoZNVWW
— Golf & Science News (@TOURMISS) December 18, 2023
The Drysdale’s can now relax over the Christmas festive season comfortably in the knowledge of playing a full 2024 Asian Tour schedule, and a last year before he seeks to qualify for the over-50 Legends Tour.
He said: “It’s been four months since Vicky and I have been back in Scotland and we’re just delighted how the year has unfolded.
“I’m also proud of what I achieved this year, especially after the disappointment of losing my card in Europe for the first time in 21 seasons, and literally having nowhere to play.
“Then to go through two stages of Q-School out in Asia, and then have limited starts, it’s just great for both Vicky and I to get back home knowing its mission accomplished.
“It’s going to be nice once the new schedule comes out to be able to pick-and-choose events we want to play, and stick to a proper schedule”.
On December 1st, the Drysdales celebrated their 19th wedding anniversary so it’s been a double celebration this month already, as they now enjoy the festive season among family and friends.
Vicky has been caddying for her husband for eight years and he could now be happier with her valuable support.
He said: “Vicky’s been fantastic. She’s been brilliant, knows what she’s doing. She kicks me up the backside when I need it (smiling). So, she keeps me in check.
“Having out there as my caddy is also something we’ve both been proud”.
Vicky said: “My hubby taught me all I know about caddying, so he’s been great.
“It’s been brilliant as I love the work, though the emotional side is tough to take sometimes, so as a caddy you have to be strong.
“The big key is that we get on so well. I’ve loved caddying for DD. It’s the best job in the world”.
Well done to you both!
