THE unstable political crisis in Kenya could be the unlikely setting for a boost to golfer Martin Sell's 2008 prospects next week.

Wrag Barn pro Sell, 29, has earned an invite to the Kenya Tuska Open, staged just outside the country's capital, Nairobi, starting next Thursday.

One of the early events of the year on the Challenge Tour - the second tier of European golf - it has been snubbed by many players because of the internal strife currently affecting the African country.

That has opened the door to the likes of Sell, who is hoping to seize the opportunity to start climbing towards the top end of the game, alongside coaching stablemate David Howell.

Sell, who lifted three titles on the locally-based Jamega Tour in 2007, jets out on Sunday to start his preparations at the Karen Golf and Country Club and said: "It's a good opportunity to make a mark on the Challenge Tour.

"There has been a bit of trouble out in Kenya which means that the event has been under-subscribed and I got an invite, which I was pleased about.

"It's a chance for me. I'm expecting to play on the EuroPro Tour (third tier) this year, but if I can do well in Kenya, who knows?'' Securing the finances necessary to maintain his golf ambition have proved problematic for the ex-Dorcan schoolboy, but he believes his career is on the right track.

A good winter's preparation with coach Clive Tucker, who also works with Howell and fellow European Tour player Graeme McDowell, has set him up for a renewed bid.

Sell added: "I've had good sessions with Clive and there has been progress.

"We've been working together for about 18 months and made a few changes.

"Clive is an ex-Tour pro himself, so he knows what it is like.''