A MACCLESFIELD sales director is preparing for the round of his life after winning a place in a global sporting tournament.

When Mark Kelly took part in a golf day organised by Mercedes-Benz Macclesfield a few months ago, he never expected to find himself on his way to Spain to compete in the Mercedes Trophy.

Next month, the 30-year-old, from Montrose Close, will tee off in his bid for the title in two days of play in Marbella.

The Mercedes-Benz tournament is regarded as one of the most exclusive and prestigious amateur golfing competitions.

For more than 17 years, existing and potential customers of the company have been taking part and, for Mark, this has been an incredible journey. What started out as a simple day at the golf course spiralled into a showcase of Mark's golfing ability as he progressed through the heats into the Northern Regional Final at Alwoodley Golf Club last month.

"The Regional Final went very well" he said. "The whole day was excellent, the course was quite tough, but we did brilliantly as a team."

The golf enthusiast has now qualified for the Mercedes Trophy National Final, and is planning regular visits to the driving range until September.

The competition is part of a four-day trip to Spain, so Mark will also have time to relax and enjoy the beautiful surrounding area.

Should his winning streak continue, the Mercedes Trophy World Final awaits him, with the chance to make Macclesfield proud and represent his country in Germany in 2007.