The backstory to Michael Stewart’s accomplishment, however, makes it even more remarkable as he holds a share of the lead at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. The 36-year-old Scotsman, with no status on the DP World Tour, only got into the event Monday thanks to a late sponsor’s exemption and didn’t have the chance to play a practice round at any of the three host courses. That’s because he spent Monday through Wednesday competing in a Tartan Pro Tour event, where he finished runner-up. Stewart was playing there in order to keep hold of his place on the Order of Merit that will earn him status on the Hotel Planner Tour (Europe’s version of the Korn Ferry Tour) in 2027. “It’s easy to get yourself up for this event,” said Stewart, who is making his first DP World Tour start in three years. “These courses I know pretty well, we’ve played a lot here in the past. I feel home at links golf. I grew up on a links course. I don’t mind the wind. As long as the rain stays away, we’re good to go.”