Els has Seve’s record in his sights

ERNIE ELS attempts this week to emulate the feat of Seve Ballesteros over a quarter of a century ago - successfully defend the Omega European Masters title in Switzerland.

Ballesteros, after whom the spectacular course at Crans-sur-Sierre is now named, won back-to-back titles in 1977 and 1978. Nobody has managed it since but Els starts a strong favourite after winning by six shots 12 months ago.

The race for Ryder Cup qualification is now over but Els faces competition from three of Bernhard Langer’s team eager to warm up for Oakland Hills in the best possible fashion.