HE MIGHT not be a regular fixture this year but Swindon’s Martin Sell believes he owes the Jamega Pro Golf Tour a debt of gratitude.

The Wrag Barn pro has finished runner-up in the Order of Merit three times in the last five years and topped the money list in 2009.

However, courtesy of his exploits at Q School in Spain in November, Sell qualified for the Challenge Tour, the feeder circuit to the main European Tour.

With a number of free weeks scheduled during the 2013 season, the former New College pupil does plan occasional appearances on the Jamega Tour, and the 33-year-old feels the seeds of his recent success were sown on the development circuit, which is almost entirely based in Britain.

“One thing the Jamega Tour does is it gets you used to winning,” he said.

“Because it’s only two rounds, you’re never too far away from the lead so you’re always in contention, and it gets you used to dealing with that.

“There’s certainly something to be said for learning how to win, there’s different pressures you have to deal with.

“I am happy that I’ve progressed up, but I will definitely continue to support the Jamega when I can.

“It’s perfect for me for off-weeks during the season as I can go there on a Monday and a Tuesday and still compete.”

The Jamega Tour also helped the former British Amateur Championship finalist hone the psychological aspects of his game that used to impact negatively on his performances.

He explained: “Mentally I’m a lot better now than I used to be. I don’t know whether that’s down to age or just playing a bit more, but I could be a little bit hot-headed at times.

“I’m a lot more mellow now and I think you just get that with experience.”

Sell is missing the opening Challenge Tour event of the season which starts tomorrow, the Kensville Challenge, as he feels he has not practised enough following a back injury he sustained early in January.

The Swindonian will begin his competitive year at the Kenya Open on February 14.