The Challenge is on

Louis Oosthuizen's form over the past few months has brought him tantalisingly close to adding a third title this year.

However, the close-but-no-cigar scenario is wearing a little thin for the former Open champion as he launches his second bid for the Nedbank Challenge crown, which starts today.

"I've been playing well the last few months. It has been frustrating [not to add another win]. I think I've been playing better than some of those finishes suggest. Overall, I'm happy with my form coming into this event," said Oosthuizen of his eight top 10 finishes this year.

He reacquainted himself with the Gary Player Country Club yesterday and, as usual, exasperation and exhilaration were like playing partners.

"I forgot how narrow the fairways were and how thick the kikuyu grass can be. With all the rain, the rough is really thick around the greens and fairways. I wouldn't be surprised if a few tees are moved up," he said.

"You have to drive it straight to give yourself opportunities.

"I had a rough front nine. Coming from the coast, just judging distances can be challenging. I got it right on the back nine."

He will tee off as one of the favourites, but was quick to highlight the virtues of his strongest challengers.

"[Charl Schwartzel] has had a tough year with injuries, which is always sad to see," he said of his friend.

"It was great to see him back to almost where he used to be. He played great last week [in Dubai] and at the South African Open. I won't be surprised if he is going to be strong this week."

Two-time winner and defending champion Lee Westwood will probably start as the tournament favourite and Oosthuizen is bracing himself for some low rounds from the former world No1.

"Lee's record is amazing around this course. He'll be up there. I think everybody is going to watch him," Oosthuizen said.

"He is one of the best ball strikers in the world. He hits the driver so straight. He is a great iron player. He gives himself so many opportunities for birdie. [Even] with these narrow fairways you'll see him take the driver while the other guys would hit a three-wood. He is just that confident."

Another Englishman, Justin Rose, will also be in Oosthuizen's cross hairs.

"Coming off a 62 last week, his confidence must be way up there," he said. "He is a great player and had a great Ryder Cup. I think Justin will be one of the guys to watch out for."

Physically, Oosthuizen is in good nick but he was reminded of how gut-wrenchingly his challenge faded in the third round the last time he played here.

"I feel good but the Beach Party is still to come. I ate something there two years ago which wasn't good to me. I'll be very careful this year," the South African said.