KEITH Preece goes into September’s Ryder Cup Wales 2010 Welsh National PGA Championship in Cardiff looking to kick-start his season.

The Burghill Valley player has only made one tournament appearance this season, but is hopeful that his hard work on the practice ground can pay off.

Preece’s three-over-par 73 at the PGA National Pro-Am Championship at Whittington Heath back in June was a modest start to the campaign.

However, with some help from fellow player Terry Hanson — who will also be competing in Cardiff — he hopes to get back in the swing and post some low scores.

“I’ve only played in one tournament so far this season because of work commitments and I missed the cut, so my season hasn’t really started yet to be honest,” Preece admitted.

“I’m still working on my game. I’ve been practising pretty hard the past couple of weeks.”

Although Preece has spent little time competing so far this season, he has been putting in some long hours on the practice ground to make sure he gives a good account of himself. “I want to get it into shape for the tournament. I need to get into half decent shape,” he added.

“I’ve mainly been working on my technique and my swing. I’m aiming to drive the ball better. I’ve been working with Terry Hanson in Cardiff, so hopefully I will see the benefits.”

Despite his lack of competitive golf, Preece maintains that he can be a force at Cardiff, which is hosting the event for the second year running.

“I finished just outside the top 10 last year, so if I can get my game together I’ll be looking to make the top 10,” he continued. “I know the course pretty well, it’s a course that I like - you need to be straight, that’s the main thing.”

The Welsh National PGA Championship has been won by some famous names, most notably Ian Woosnam, Brian Huggett, Sid Mouland and Percy Alliss.

Preece will be competing for a share of £42,500 prize money when the event gets under way on Wednesday.

Last year, European Tour professional Stephen Dodd romped to an eight-shot victory with a 10-under-par total, and he looks to be the man to beat once more this year.

Rob Holt, chief executive of Ryder Cup Wales 2010, added: “We are delighted to be title sponsors of this historic event which dates back to 1904.

“It boasts an illustrious list of winners, including former Ryder Cup captains Ian Woosnam and Brian Huggett.

“It is great to be back at Cyncoed (Cardiff) Golf Club for a second year, which will again provide a great test.”