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SYDNEY - Michael Campbell is quietly confident of being fit to contest next month's New Zealand Open golf championship and is calling on organisers to arrange a three-generation grouping of Sir Bob Charles, himself and amateur sensation Danny Lee.
Campbell has been absent from competition for a month
since pulling out after just nine holes of the Qatar Masters in Doha.
Since then the 2005 US Open champion has been undergoing further tests on his injured right shoulder along with an exercise programme to build up strength in the affected region.
Campbell indicated today he believed doctors would allow him to play by the time the New Zealand Open tees off on March 12.
"I went down to Melbourne last week for a further series of tests and I'm hopeful, with the doctors' approval, I will be able to compete in the New Zealand Open next month.
"If so, it would be great if organisers could group Sir Bob Charles, Danny Lee and myself in a three ball over the first two days.
"That would be fantastic for promoters and also New Zealand golf fans as it would allow them to see three generations of New Zealand golfers competing together in the country's premier event.
"Of course, my shoulder has be 100 per cent but what a dream three ball - New Zealand's two major champions and the reigning US Amateur champion."
Campbell spoke to Lee yesterday after the new Johnnie Walker Classic champion arrived in Melbourne ahead of this week's Moonah Classic.
"It was a fabulous win by Danny and I spoke with him on Monday to congratulate him on a wonderful achievement," said Campbell.
"I told him how pleased I was to get my name on the trophy before he did as Danny has such a marvellous future in the game once he turns pro after Augusta."
Should Campbell be given approval to compete in Christchurch, it will the first of two similar events heading into April's US Masters that he and the 18-year old Lee will contest.
The duo would also contest the Arnold Palmer Invitational in Florida, starting on March 26.
Campbell celebrated his 40th birthday yesterday with family and friends. but admits he's still coming to grips with leaving his 30s behind.
"I can't believe I've turned 40 though I can look back on those 40 years with delight," he said.
"I am proud as I have a achieved a lot in that time, particularly with regards to my golf."
Campbell said he had goals still to achieve and aimed to perform solidly for the foreseeable future.
"My goals are no different and the prime one is to win again because it's been a few years since I won two events in 2005.
"But of most importance to me is my family life. I've got a great wife and two wonderful boys so that part of my life continues to be very special."
- NZPA