Joe Dean has a British Open Dream | Thebigtip

Joe Dean says he is dreaming of landing a place alongside the biggest names in the sport at July's Open Championship ahead of the final qualifying tournament at Rye.

The 17-year-old previously won the Lee Westwood junior tournament two years ago and says his dream pairing would be to line up alongside the current world number two. Those following the golf odds will be keeping a close eye on his progress.

Two strong rounds are all that separate him from taking a place at Royal St George's and the youngster says all he can think about is the possibility of lining up alongside his hero.

"It would be amazing," said Dean, who won the regional qualifier at Lindrick last week. "I would have a bit of banter with him, and hopefully try to beat him.

"But I know qualifying would take two really, really good scores, so I've just been getting in as much practice as I can to give it my best shot."

Dean will have his work cut out though as there will be another 279 players looking to play well enough to climb one of the 12 spots still up for grabs in the Open and those following the Open betting will be keeping track of things.

Amongst them will be the likes of former US Open Champion Michael Campbell as well as former Ryder Cup player Jarmo Sandelin.

However, there will be no Jose Maria Olazabal after the Spaniard pulled out of the competition due to his chronic arthritis.