Gabella plays with heart in La Cala

Swiss Arthur Gabella (photo : Elisabeth Carabelli), who had a heart transplantation in August 2014, is leading on Europa course with brilliant 67.

Swiss Arthur Gabella-Wenne is one of the leader after first round of stage one Q School in La Cala resort. But his story is worth being told. Gabella is 27 year old and just turned pro. A bit late ? Maybe, but Gabella had to wait and to recover his form.

The player from Geneva had a heart transplantation in August 2013 and his plan was to come back to competition in 2015. He sticks to the schedule. He signed for a great 67 four under par on Europa course, the longest of the 3 courses on the first stage. Italy’s Agustin Bardas is neck and neck with him. Former European Tour player, Spain’s Ivo Giner, is 7^th ties and the cut for the 30 spots is currently +5.

On Asia course, the shortest of the three, 5850 meters, another Italian guy leads with -5. There are 28 spots available on this course and the line is as well +5.

Finally, on the America course, where there are only 15 spots to go to the finale, Italy’s Carlo Guarraldi is leading thanks to a colourful card. No less than eight birdies but 4 shots dropped as well. Former Swiss European Tour star, Julien Clément is one of the four players under par on this course. He is third tie with -1.

Seve Ballesteros’ son, Javier, who turned pro a few weeks ago, shot 77 and Ryder Cup star’s son, Francesco Rocca had a difficult day with a 83 card.

Agathe Séron