Former Open winner Paul Lawrie is in a race against time to be fit for the Dubai World Championship.

The 40-year-old picked up a back strain on the way to the UBS Hong Kong Open this week as he looks to climb the Race to Dubai rankings before the event later this month.

Lawrie – from Aberdeen – is currently 82nd but must break into the top 60 to secure a tee-time in the United Arab Emirates.

“As I was lifting my clubs off the weighing scales at the airport check-in I felt a sharp pain in my lower back,” said Lawrie.

“I had a very uncomfortable flight to Hong Kong and my back was agony.

“I wasn’t sure about going to Hong Kong but I really want to play in Dubai and I have to give it a go.”