Thomas tees up for Tiger's crown

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A nine-year-old Wrexham boy is to represent Great Britain and Ireland at the 2007 Kids World Golf Championship in the United States.

Thomas Williams will join about 950 children and their families for the annual competition at Pinehurst, North Carolina.

Thomas, described by his coach as "frighteningly good," has a handicap of 24 after just three years.

He said he hoped one day to be "even better" than his hero Tiger Woods.

Thomas's talent was first spotted three years ago when he was playing with his father Peter at Chirk Golf Club.

His mother, Catryn, said: "One of the pros spotted him and they gave him free membership for a year.

His grandfather and father both play golf, but really Thomas is giving them lessons, he's so good Catryn Williams

"That same year he played in a competition at the Celtic Manor, which he won, and also came second in his age group in a competition at St Andrews.

"A lot of pros have said he's got a gift. He's naturally talented with a beautiful swing."

Thomas, a pupil at Penycae Junior School - who was born on the first day of the Ryder Cup competition in 1997 - will travel with his parents on Monday after being selected to play in the competition following a series of qualifying events.

He will play 18 holes a day during the three-day competition. It is now in its seventh year, and was created to allow children to further their golf skills and spur competition among the under-12s.

Thomas hopes to be a better player than world number one Tiger Woods

Thomas said he was "very excited" about the trip, and would love to meet the world's best-known golfer, Tiger Woods.

His mother said: "It's wonderful to see him representing Britain.

"He's only nine and he's so gifted. His handicap is officially 24, but that's from when he was seven, so he's actually a lot better than that.

"His grandfather and father both play golf, but really Thomas is giving them lessons, he's so good."

'Something special'

Thomas is coached by Paul Williams, professional at Wrexham Golf Club, who said: "He's something special, frighteningly good.

"I'm gobsmacked at times. It's hard to believe he can hit the shots he can, for a nine-year-old.

"He's hitting about 180 yards when he's driving, but he can play all the shots you need.

"He's a tiny little guy playing off men's tees, and he's managed to do our course only four over par.

"He's a great little kid - very happy-go-lucky, but very focused. It's just a question of him growing and gaining strength."