COROWA’S Marcus Fraser has been selected in the first Australian golf team to compete in the Olympic Games.
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With the sport returning at Rio next month after a 112-year hiatus, Fraser and Scott Hend will fly the national flag.
Fraser and Hend are ranked 86th and 81st in the world respectively.
It’s great to be part of the Olympic team heading to Rio. To play in the Olympics is a dream come true
- Marcus Fraser
Fraser rated his selection as one of the highlights of his career.
“It’s great to be part of the Olympic team heading to Rio,” Fraser said.
“To play in the Olympics is a dream come true.
“Obviously with golf being back for the first time in over 100 years, it’s pretty amazing.
“It’s going to be a great week and I can’t wait to represent our great country.”
The Australian team has been rocked by unavailability with Jason Day and Marc Leishman (Zika virus) and Adam Scott (scheduling) the biggest casualties.
Jordan Spieth and Rory McIlroy are among a host of international stars to rule themselves out.
Sixty-players will look to tame the course in the 72-hole stroke play format which starts on day six of the games.
Minjee Lee and Su Oh have been named in the Australian women’s side with World Golf Hall of Fame member Karrie Webb failing to qualify.
Fraser is looking for a big performance in this week’s British Open at Troon.
"Obviously getting into contention on Sunday afternoon is the plan," the 37-year-old said.
"The golf course suits a lot of guys this week so it's going to be tough.
"But, like everyone, I want to play as well as I can and have a chance on Sunday afternoon.”