Jimmy Ko Ming-chak believes the combination of intense practice, an experienced caddie and the disappointment of previous performances will help him become the first local amateur to make the cut since the tournament became a European Tour sanctioned event.
Ko, 19, who earned a berth at Fanling this week thanks to a stunning victory at the tournament's qualifying event last month, will be playing in his fourth consecutive Open, but has so far flattered to deceive on the big stage.
'I haven't been at my best, that's for sure,' said Ko, in reference to his previous Opens, which have all resulted in missed cuts.
'I've been very nervous and uncomfortable in the past, but I'm a different player - a much more confident player.
'I'm really feeling good and if I play as well as I know I can, I'll have a great chance to play through to the weekend. I feel I'm much better prepared this year.'
Ko, who will tee off in the first group at 6.55am, said a six-month stint in California has a lot to do with his change in attitude.