Golf: Hamilton hopes to repeat last year's great run

James Hamilton.

It is not surprising that Omanu professional James Hamilton has one clear memory from his breakthrough win on the Charles Tour last year.

The 25-year-old returns to Christchurch next week for the John Jones Steel Harewood Open looking to relive his dream finish that helped him card a two-under par 70 and claim the title by two strokes.

Hamilton delivered the championship defining shot when he hit his approach to the 512m, par 5, 18th to around 22 feet (7m) and converted his eagle chance with a bold putt.

The Euro Pro Tour professional finished birdie - eagle to defeat tournament favourite, and his mentor growing up, Josh Geary, in what was one of the most impressive finishes in Charles Tour history.

"That eagle finish is definitely the main image that stays in my mind," said Hamilton.

"To go birdie - eagle under that sort of pressure to close out my first title was really satisfying and to beat what I consider one of the best professionals in New Zealand [Geary] made it even better."

Geary is not back in 2014 as he is in Perth looking to defend his Western Australian Open title.

"There are a few guys missing this week with the events on in Aussie so I'd like to think if I play to my potential that I will be in contention again," said Hamilton. "It would be great to have a chance to defend my title."

Hamilton believes that he is at a crossroads in his career as he looks to achieve his goal of getting on the European Tour. He is going to reassess where he is at after the Charles Tour event but is likely to base himself in the UK next year to give the Euro Pro Tour a more concerted effort.

"It is a bit unsettling coming back and forward and I don't feel I am giving it my best shot. If I spend some more time over there I think I will be more comfortable and be better prepared to play well."

Charles Tour - John Jones Steel Harewood Open
When: October 24 - 27
Where: Harewood GC, Christchurch
What: Around 140 of New Zealand's best amateurs and up and coming professionals competing over 72 holes of stroke play. The professionals are playing for a $40,000 purse