Bragging rights on the line as Blairgowrie pro Bradley Neil faces Graham brothers in new challenge match

They have played for bragging rights around home course Blairgowrie on countless occasions over the years.

But, next week, Perthshire professional Bradley Neil could well be facing off against the Graham brothers in a more competitive environment.

Neil will be representing Team Paul Lawrie in a new professionals versus elite amateurs challenge match at the Trump International Golf Links. Lining-up for the amateur squad, fronted up by team captain Spencer Henderson, will be Connor and Gregor Graham.

“I was actually at their house last week and I’d said I was playing in this match,” Neil smiled. “And Gregor’s face lit up. Wee Connor was the exact same. I know they want to come up against me. They are so keen, but it’s fantastic.”

Gregor (19) and Connor (16) are both part of Scottish squads and compete across the country, continent and even beyond in some cases.

Since they were little they have watched, practiced and shared the fairways with Neil, who turned pro back in 2015 and is now 27 years of age.

“Gregor beat me before I went to Dubai at the start of the year over nine holes,” Neil recalled. “And he keeps going on about it. But it’s all good fun.

“He has matured excellently over the last couple of years. He was unfortunate with injury but took full advantage of the South Africa trip he was just on. I’ve seen the development in his game.

“And Connor has had some great performances. He is constantly playing out of his age group, but that is brilliant. He is challenging at men’s level and that is only going to make him better.

“They are both serial winners. It doesn’t matter if it’s a bounce game. They are just so determined to beat you. They have a very supportive family and great people around them.”

Neil reckons the challenge