DeLaet Joins PGA Tour in 2010
Canada's Graham DeLaet will be joining Mike Wier, Stephan Ames and Chris Baryla on the PGA Tour in 2010. DeLaet earned his PGA Tour card with a T8 finish at the 2010 Tour school finishing at 15 under par for the 6 round test of golf.
Congratulations Graham!
Showing posts with label Q-School. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Q-School. Show all posts
Monday, December 7, 2009
Monday, October 26, 2009
Canadian Earns PGA Tour Card
PGA Tour to Welcome Chris Baryla in 2010
Vernon, B.C. Boy Earns Way to the Big League
Congratulations to Vernon, B.C.’s Chris Baryla on securing his 2010 PGA Tour be finishing in the top 25 on the 2009 Nationwide Tour. Baryla, 27, finished the season strong with a victory in the third last event of the season. The win was worth $90,000 and Baryla finished up the year with a tie for seventh in the final event earning him another $29,100. The top 25 players received their 2010 PGA Tour playing privileges following Sunday’s Nationwide Tour Championship. Baryla finished in 19th place on the year end money list with $217,680.
Injury Hampered Progress in 08’
Baryla is coming off an injury plagued 2008 season in which on only started in seven events and made just one cut. “To be able to come back after having my back injury and Monday qualifying into the events and make it into the top 25 is awesome,” said Baryla. This year Baryla, who was born in Calgary, AB and resides in Vernon, B.C., played in 14 events and made 13 cuts with one victory and five top 10 finishes. He also finished the season with a commendable 69.87 scoring average on the Nationwide Tour. He played in three PGA Tour events in 2009, making one cut and earning $132,038 for a top 10 finish.
Good luck to Chris and we’ll be watching your progress on the PGA Tour.
Vernon, B.C. Boy Earns Way to the Big League
Congratulations to Vernon, B.C.’s Chris Baryla on securing his 2010 PGA Tour be finishing in the top 25 on the 2009 Nationwide Tour. Baryla, 27, finished the season strong with a victory in the third last event of the season. The win was worth $90,000 and Baryla finished up the year with a tie for seventh in the final event earning him another $29,100. The top 25 players received their 2010 PGA Tour playing privileges following Sunday’s Nationwide Tour Championship. Baryla finished in 19th place on the year end money list with $217,680.
Injury Hampered Progress in 08’
Baryla is coming off an injury plagued 2008 season in which on only started in seven events and made just one cut. “To be able to come back after having my back injury and Monday qualifying into the events and make it into the top 25 is awesome,” said Baryla. This year Baryla, who was born in Calgary, AB and resides in Vernon, B.C., played in 14 events and made 13 cuts with one victory and five top 10 finishes. He also finished the season with a commendable 69.87 scoring average on the Nationwide Tour. He played in three PGA Tour events in 2009, making one cut and earning $132,038 for a top 10 finish.
Good luck to Chris and we’ll be watching your progress on the PGA Tour.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Canadian Tour - Graduation Day At Q-School
Submitted by CanTour Communications John Berkovich
BURLINGTON, Ont. – Johnny Bloomfield fired a three under par 68 and ran away with medalist honors at the Canadian Tour’s Fall Qualifying School by seven strokes over Will Strickler.
Bloomfield finished the tournament at 14 under par 270.
Sharing third spot at 278 are Robbie Greenwell who closed with a 65, Daniel McCarthy (69) and Michael Gligic who managed a one over 72.
Finishing tied for eight and earning exempt cards at 280 are Dan Buchner (71) and Peter Laws who shot 73.
Australian amateur Adam Stephens closed with a 68 to grab a share of tenth with Devin Carey (68), Jeff Puska (72) and Derek Oakey who had a 74.
Louis–Pierre Godin struggled home with a 77 but he and Marc Peterson (67) survived the four man playoff to grab the final exempt spots over Tyler Matthews and Ryan Kings.
“I came here to get status and winning is a bonus,” said Bloomfield, who pocketed $2,000.
“I just waited to see if there was a chance for me to win and made sure I was playing consistently today.
“Coming down the line, I didn’t know what the scores were but I felt I had a chance to win with the way I was playing.
“This is a big boost for me,” continued Bloomfield. “To win in a large field like this gives me a lot of confidence. I’m going to the European Tour Fall Qualifying School and this will help.
“My game is consistency. What gets you in golf is your nerves and your emotions.
“If I do start getting a little bit excited, I tell myself, ‘Trust in your natural ability.’ I was a good player as a youngster but over the years that trust became a problem.
“I’ve learned that what matters is not perfection but hitting the ball solidly and knowing that it is going in the vicinity that you want it to.
“I’m very excited and looking forward to playing the Canadian Tour next year.”
Having struggled through his rookie season, Michael Gligic earned an exempt card for 2010 with his T-3 finish.
“I was confident for the first eight holes, especially after the birdie at the fourth,” said Gligic.
“Starting early with a birdie instead of a bogey was a good feeling and then I got another one at the eighth."
One behind at that point and aiming for the win; Gligic double-bogeyed No. 9 and could only watch as Bloomfield continued his methodical game of fairways and greens.
“I don’t know what the word is, but I guess I wanted it too bad and made a bad swing on nine,” continued Gligic.
“I pulled it a touch and thought it was going to fly the bunker but it ended up way back. I think it hit the tree nearby and rolled back.
“I chipped it on (the green) and three putted. That was pretty much the end of my day.”
Although he reacquired exempt status, Gligic was disappointed with his final round performance.
“It was tough to get it back after that double-bogey,” he added.
“Johnny was playing so steady that I knew I had to keep making birdies. I didn’t do it, though, and kept missing putts.
“I knew he (Bloomfield) had me the last couple of holes and I turned the switch off. I was playing to win this.
“But I’m back next year and that is what counts in the long run.”
2009 Fall Qualifying School
Exempt Status
Pos Name
1 Johnny Bloomfield
2 Will Strickler
3 Robbie Greenwell
4 Daniel McCarthy
5 Michael Gligic
6 Mathieu Rivard
7 David Markle
8 Dan Buchner
9 Peter Laws
10 Adam Stephens
11 Devin Carrey
12 Jeff Puska
13 Derek Oakey
14 Louis-Pierre Godin
15 Marc Peterson
Non-Exempt Status
1 Ryan Kings
2 Tyler Matthews
3 Barry O'Neill
4 Jason Humphrey
5 Chase Cronk
6 Tyler Martin
7 Nick Cullen
8 Jeff Lai
9 Randall Hutchinson
10 Andrew Jensen
11 Jacob Scriven
12 Danny Sahl
13 Roger Sloan
14 Lindsay Renolds
15 Ju Young Park
BURLINGTON, Ont. – Johnny Bloomfield fired a three under par 68 and ran away with medalist honors at the Canadian Tour’s Fall Qualifying School by seven strokes over Will Strickler.
Bloomfield finished the tournament at 14 under par 270.
Sharing third spot at 278 are Robbie Greenwell who closed with a 65, Daniel McCarthy (69) and Michael Gligic who managed a one over 72.
Finishing tied for eight and earning exempt cards at 280 are Dan Buchner (71) and Peter Laws who shot 73.
Australian amateur Adam Stephens closed with a 68 to grab a share of tenth with Devin Carey (68), Jeff Puska (72) and Derek Oakey who had a 74.
Louis–Pierre Godin struggled home with a 77 but he and Marc Peterson (67) survived the four man playoff to grab the final exempt spots over Tyler Matthews and Ryan Kings.
“I came here to get status and winning is a bonus,” said Bloomfield, who pocketed $2,000.
“I just waited to see if there was a chance for me to win and made sure I was playing consistently today.
“Coming down the line, I didn’t know what the scores were but I felt I had a chance to win with the way I was playing.
“This is a big boost for me,” continued Bloomfield. “To win in a large field like this gives me a lot of confidence. I’m going to the European Tour Fall Qualifying School and this will help.
“My game is consistency. What gets you in golf is your nerves and your emotions.
“If I do start getting a little bit excited, I tell myself, ‘Trust in your natural ability.’ I was a good player as a youngster but over the years that trust became a problem.
“I’ve learned that what matters is not perfection but hitting the ball solidly and knowing that it is going in the vicinity that you want it to.
“I’m very excited and looking forward to playing the Canadian Tour next year.”
Having struggled through his rookie season, Michael Gligic earned an exempt card for 2010 with his T-3 finish.
“I was confident for the first eight holes, especially after the birdie at the fourth,” said Gligic.
“Starting early with a birdie instead of a bogey was a good feeling and then I got another one at the eighth."
One behind at that point and aiming for the win; Gligic double-bogeyed No. 9 and could only watch as Bloomfield continued his methodical game of fairways and greens.
“I don’t know what the word is, but I guess I wanted it too bad and made a bad swing on nine,” continued Gligic.
“I pulled it a touch and thought it was going to fly the bunker but it ended up way back. I think it hit the tree nearby and rolled back.
“I chipped it on (the green) and three putted. That was pretty much the end of my day.”
Although he reacquired exempt status, Gligic was disappointed with his final round performance.
“It was tough to get it back after that double-bogey,” he added.
“Johnny was playing so steady that I knew I had to keep making birdies. I didn’t do it, though, and kept missing putts.
“I knew he (Bloomfield) had me the last couple of holes and I turned the switch off. I was playing to win this.
“But I’m back next year and that is what counts in the long run.”
2009 Fall Qualifying School
Exempt Status
Pos Name
1 Johnny Bloomfield
2 Will Strickler
3 Robbie Greenwell
4 Daniel McCarthy
5 Michael Gligic
6 Mathieu Rivard
7 David Markle
8 Dan Buchner
9 Peter Laws
10 Adam Stephens
11 Devin Carrey
12 Jeff Puska
13 Derek Oakey
14 Louis-Pierre Godin
15 Marc Peterson
Non-Exempt Status
1 Ryan Kings
2 Tyler Matthews
3 Barry O'Neill
4 Jason Humphrey
5 Chase Cronk
6 Tyler Martin
7 Nick Cullen
8 Jeff Lai
9 Randall Hutchinson
10 Andrew Jensen
11 Jacob Scriven
12 Danny Sahl
13 Roger Sloan
14 Lindsay Renolds
15 Ju Young Park
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
PGA of BC Playing Ability Test
The PGA of BC results from the Playing Ability Test (PAT) conducted at Royalwood Golf Club - click here (pdf format).
The 36 hole re-try for candidates goes tomorrow, click here for the tee times.
The 36 hole re-try for candidates goes tomorrow, click here for the tee times.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Canadian Tour - 2009 Fall Q-School Approaching
Submitted by Canadian Tour Communications
OAKVILLE, Ont. – The Canadian Tour’s Fall Qualifying School is scheduled for Hidden Lake Golf Club in Burlington, Ont., from Sept. 9 -12, 2009.
The new course at Hidden Lake is a 6,743 yard par-71 layout situated 30 minutes west of Toronto and is hosting the Fall Q-School for the first time.
“Dan Halldorson was approached about this course because one thing the Tour was looking at was close proximity to St. Catharines where the Tour Championship is,” said George Tidd, CPGA Executive Professional and part owner of Hidden Lake.
“We’ve had the Monday Qualifying for the Canadian Open at least three times and a dozen or more regional qualifiers and the lowest recorded score was 66.
“The fairways are pretty narrow normally but we’re also going to grow the rough and double-roll the greens.
“This is a target-style golf course and it will be a good test for the pros.”
Steeped in history, the Fall Q-School has seen PGA TOUR winners Dave Barr, Stephen Ames, Ian Leggatt, Kirk Triplett, Tim Petrovic and Billy Ray Brown earn their cards at the Fall Q-School.
In more recent times, the school has graduated Jon Mills, David Hearn, Graham DeLaet and Wes Heffernan to the Canadian Tour and beyond.
Alex Coe earned his card two years ago and parlayed that into a victory at the Jane Rogers Championship in August of last year.
"I’ve played a lot of mini-tour events and they don’t compare to the Canadian Tour in terms of quality and depth of field, course conditions and atmosphere. Here in North America, you have the PGA TOUR, Nationwide Tour and the Canadian Tour,” said Coe.
2008 Tour Championship winner Tom Stankowski said about the Canadian Tour, “Other tours don’t teach you the mental preparation that you learn here on the Canadian Tour.
“With the mini-tours you may travel an hour from home at most and that doesn’t teach you how to be away for a week or more at a time. They (mini-tours) really don’t develop you.”
Successful applicants won’t have long to wait before testing their game against the best Canadian Tour players.
Depending on spots available, they will head to Mexico to compete in two late September events and then have the opportunity to compete throughout Latin America to begin the 2010 season with expected stops in Columbia, Peru, Argentina, Chile and Costa Rica in November and December of 2009.
For further information contact:
Cindy L. Cote
Executive Assistant & Membership Service Manager
Canadian Professional Golf Tour
Golf House, Suite 301, 1333 Dorval Drive
Oakville, Ontario, Canada L6M 4X7
North America Toll Free: 1-877-226-8687
Direct Line: 905-815-9756, Extension 485
Fax: 905-815-8523 or 1-877-888-2381
Email: ccote@cantour.com
OAKVILLE, Ont. – The Canadian Tour’s Fall Qualifying School is scheduled for Hidden Lake Golf Club in Burlington, Ont., from Sept. 9 -12, 2009.
The new course at Hidden Lake is a 6,743 yard par-71 layout situated 30 minutes west of Toronto and is hosting the Fall Q-School for the first time.
“Dan Halldorson was approached about this course because one thing the Tour was looking at was close proximity to St. Catharines where the Tour Championship is,” said George Tidd, CPGA Executive Professional and part owner of Hidden Lake.
“We’ve had the Monday Qualifying for the Canadian Open at least three times and a dozen or more regional qualifiers and the lowest recorded score was 66.
“The fairways are pretty narrow normally but we’re also going to grow the rough and double-roll the greens.
“This is a target-style golf course and it will be a good test for the pros.”
Steeped in history, the Fall Q-School has seen PGA TOUR winners Dave Barr, Stephen Ames, Ian Leggatt, Kirk Triplett, Tim Petrovic and Billy Ray Brown earn their cards at the Fall Q-School.
In more recent times, the school has graduated Jon Mills, David Hearn, Graham DeLaet and Wes Heffernan to the Canadian Tour and beyond.
Alex Coe earned his card two years ago and parlayed that into a victory at the Jane Rogers Championship in August of last year.
"I’ve played a lot of mini-tour events and they don’t compare to the Canadian Tour in terms of quality and depth of field, course conditions and atmosphere. Here in North America, you have the PGA TOUR, Nationwide Tour and the Canadian Tour,” said Coe.
2008 Tour Championship winner Tom Stankowski said about the Canadian Tour, “Other tours don’t teach you the mental preparation that you learn here on the Canadian Tour.
“With the mini-tours you may travel an hour from home at most and that doesn’t teach you how to be away for a week or more at a time. They (mini-tours) really don’t develop you.”
Successful applicants won’t have long to wait before testing their game against the best Canadian Tour players.
Depending on spots available, they will head to Mexico to compete in two late September events and then have the opportunity to compete throughout Latin America to begin the 2010 season with expected stops in Columbia, Peru, Argentina, Chile and Costa Rica in November and December of 2009.
For further information contact:
Cindy L. Cote
Executive Assistant & Membership Service Manager
Canadian Professional Golf Tour
Golf House, Suite 301, 1333 Dorval Drive
Oakville, Ontario, Canada L6M 4X7
North America Toll Free: 1-877-226-8687
Direct Line: 905-815-9756, Extension 485
Fax: 905-815-8523 or 1-877-888-2381
Email: ccote@cantour.com
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Andrew Parr, Richard Lee, Graham Baillargeon and Lucas Lee Monday Qualify For 2009 RBC Canadian Open
Team Sean O’Hair-Damon Allen wins inaugural Mike Weir Charity Classic
Oakville, Ont. (RCGA) – Andrew Parr of London, Ont., played near perfect golf during Monday’s qualifying round at Heron Point in Alberton, Ont., to earn one of four final exemptions into the 2009 RBC Canadian Open.
After a bogey on the first hole, Parr went on to shoot five birdies and two eagles on the day. Parr’s eight-under par 63 earned him the right to play among the PGA TOUR’s professionals at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ont. Parr, who turned pro in 2007, will be competing in his third consecutive RBC Canadian Open.
Also earning exemptions into this year’s Open are Richard Lee of Chandler, Ariz., amateur Graham Baillargeon of Mississauga, Ont. and Lucas Lee of Torrance, Calif.
With the addition of the four Monday qualifiers, a total of 15 Canadians are now set to compete at this year’s RBC Canadian Open.
MONDAY QUALIFYING RESULTS:
The following players Monday qualified for the 2009 RBC Canadian Open:
1. Andrew Parr, Reston, VA, 35-28-63 (-8)
2. Richard Lee, Chandler, AZ, 33-33-66 (-5)
*3. Graham Baillargeon (a), Mississauga, ON, 33-34-67 (-4)
*3. Lucas Lee, Torrance, CA, 36-31-67 (-4)
* Denotes qualified in playoff
(a) Denotes amateur
INAUGURAL MIKE WEIR CHARITY CLASSIC
A new chapter in RBC Canadian Open history was written as the inaugural Mike Weir Charity Classic pro-am kicked off in style Monday. The pro-am event featured marquee celebrities from the music, sport and entertainment industries as well as top stars on the PGA TOUR vying for the championship team title. Amateur competitors played nine holes with a PGA TOUR pro and nine holes with a celebrity.
The team of Sean O’Hair and Damon Allen won the event, combining for an impressive team-total of 19-under par. Anthony Kim and Rick Nash (team1) finished T2nd with Camilo Villegas and Tom Cochrane as well as Anthony Kim and Rick Nash (team 2) at 15-under par.
Fans flocked to Glen Abbey to see notable stars such as NBA legend Michael Jordan, Oscar winner Kevin Costner and NHL all-star netminder Martin Brodeur as well as PGA TOUR stars Stephen Ames, Sean O’Hair and event host Mike Weir.
ABOUT THE 2009 RBC CANADIAN OPEN
An exciting new era has arrived for Canada's national championship. Part of the FedEx Cup, stars of the PGA TOUR will compete for $5.1 million (US) at the RBC Canadian Open, July 20-26 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ontario. Established in 1904, the tournament is the third-oldest national open golf championship worldwide next to the British Open and the U.S. Open. The RBC Canadian Open is proudly sponsored by RBC, Bell, Pengrowth and BMW Canada along with Corona Extra, TaylorMade, Wolf Blass, Southern Implants, CFF Stainless Steels Inc., The Globe and Mail, Pepsi, LG, Transitions Optical, The Glenlivet, Reader’s Digest, Sunoco and local media partners Q107 and Toronto Sun. The event is also supported by Ontario Tourism. Ontario, yours to discover.
ABOUT THE ROYAL CANADIAN GOLF ASSOCIATION
The Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) is the governing body of golf in Canada, representing 377,000 members at 1,600 clubs across the country. Recognized by Sport Canada as the National Sports Organization (NSO) for golf in this country, the RCGA’s mission is to grow participation in and passion for the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. The RCGA conducts programs and services to help shape the future of golf in Canada. High performance athlete development, CN Future Links, Canada’s national junior golf program, turfgrass and environmental research, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum, Rules of Golf and amateur status, handicapping and course rating are only some of the initiatives the association leads for golf in Canada. In addition, the RCGA conducts Canada’s most prestigious golf championships. The RBC Canadian Open and CN Canadian Women’s Open attract the best professional golfers in the world, while regional junior and national amateur championships showcase the best in Canadian golf. For further information on what the RCGA is doing to support golf in your community please visit www.rcga.org.
Oakville, Ont. (RCGA) – Andrew Parr of London, Ont., played near perfect golf during Monday’s qualifying round at Heron Point in Alberton, Ont., to earn one of four final exemptions into the 2009 RBC Canadian Open.
After a bogey on the first hole, Parr went on to shoot five birdies and two eagles on the day. Parr’s eight-under par 63 earned him the right to play among the PGA TOUR’s professionals at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ont. Parr, who turned pro in 2007, will be competing in his third consecutive RBC Canadian Open.
Also earning exemptions into this year’s Open are Richard Lee of Chandler, Ariz., amateur Graham Baillargeon of Mississauga, Ont. and Lucas Lee of Torrance, Calif.
With the addition of the four Monday qualifiers, a total of 15 Canadians are now set to compete at this year’s RBC Canadian Open.
MONDAY QUALIFYING RESULTS:
The following players Monday qualified for the 2009 RBC Canadian Open:
1. Andrew Parr, Reston, VA, 35-28-63 (-8)
2. Richard Lee, Chandler, AZ, 33-33-66 (-5)
*3. Graham Baillargeon (a), Mississauga, ON, 33-34-67 (-4)
*3. Lucas Lee, Torrance, CA, 36-31-67 (-4)
* Denotes qualified in playoff
(a) Denotes amateur
INAUGURAL MIKE WEIR CHARITY CLASSIC
A new chapter in RBC Canadian Open history was written as the inaugural Mike Weir Charity Classic pro-am kicked off in style Monday. The pro-am event featured marquee celebrities from the music, sport and entertainment industries as well as top stars on the PGA TOUR vying for the championship team title. Amateur competitors played nine holes with a PGA TOUR pro and nine holes with a celebrity.
The team of Sean O’Hair and Damon Allen won the event, combining for an impressive team-total of 19-under par. Anthony Kim and Rick Nash (team1) finished T2nd with Camilo Villegas and Tom Cochrane as well as Anthony Kim and Rick Nash (team 2) at 15-under par.
Fans flocked to Glen Abbey to see notable stars such as NBA legend Michael Jordan, Oscar winner Kevin Costner and NHL all-star netminder Martin Brodeur as well as PGA TOUR stars Stephen Ames, Sean O’Hair and event host Mike Weir.
ABOUT THE 2009 RBC CANADIAN OPEN
An exciting new era has arrived for Canada's national championship. Part of the FedEx Cup, stars of the PGA TOUR will compete for $5.1 million (US) at the RBC Canadian Open, July 20-26 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ontario. Established in 1904, the tournament is the third-oldest national open golf championship worldwide next to the British Open and the U.S. Open. The RBC Canadian Open is proudly sponsored by RBC, Bell, Pengrowth and BMW Canada along with Corona Extra, TaylorMade, Wolf Blass, Southern Implants, CFF Stainless Steels Inc., The Globe and Mail, Pepsi, LG, Transitions Optical, The Glenlivet, Reader’s Digest, Sunoco and local media partners Q107 and Toronto Sun. The event is also supported by Ontario Tourism. Ontario, yours to discover.
ABOUT THE ROYAL CANADIAN GOLF ASSOCIATION
The Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) is the governing body of golf in Canada, representing 377,000 members at 1,600 clubs across the country. Recognized by Sport Canada as the National Sports Organization (NSO) for golf in this country, the RCGA’s mission is to grow participation in and passion for the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. The RCGA conducts programs and services to help shape the future of golf in Canada. High performance athlete development, CN Future Links, Canada’s national junior golf program, turfgrass and environmental research, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum, Rules of Golf and amateur status, handicapping and course rating are only some of the initiatives the association leads for golf in Canada. In addition, the RCGA conducts Canada’s most prestigious golf championships. The RBC Canadian Open and CN Canadian Women’s Open attract the best professional golfers in the world, while regional junior and national amateur championships showcase the best in Canadian golf. For further information on what the RCGA is doing to support golf in your community please visit www.rcga.org.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Canadian Tour Announces Mexican Swing
Submitted by CanTour Communications John Berkovich
OAKVILLE, Ont. – The Canadian Tour today confirmed new dates for two season-ending events in Mexico that were postponed in April because of the outbreak of the H1N1 virus. A third event creating a three week season-ending “Mexican Swing” is still to be confirmed. The Tour has also changed the venue and dates for the 2009 Fall Qualifying School.
The Fall Qualifying School tees off the week of Sept.7th at Hidden Lake Golf Club in Burlington, Ont. This is the first time since 1973 that the Canadian Tour has not held a Qualifying School at Royal Ashburn Golf Club.
The Iberostar Playa Paraiso Golf Club, outside Cancun Mexico will host the third playing of the US $125,000 Iberostar Riviera Maya Open, Sept. 24-27.
The final event of the Mexican Swing and the 2009 Canadian Tour season will be at the US $125,000 Riviera Nayarit Classic presented by IDN at the Litibu Golf Club in Nayarit, Mexico, Oct. 1-4.
Litibu Golf Club (pictured) is a Greg Norman design routed over rolling terrain offering dramatic uphill and downhill holes along the Pacific Ocean.
"It was unfortunate that we had to postpone events in Mexico in April but extending the season into October to keep our players competitive leading up to PGA TOUR School is something that we have wanted to do for some time," stated Canadian Tour Commissioner Richard Janes.
Details for a possible third event Sept. 17-20 at the Nicklaus designed La Loma Golf Course in San Luis Potosi, Mexico are still to be confirmed.
OAKVILLE, Ont. – The Canadian Tour today confirmed new dates for two season-ending events in Mexico that were postponed in April because of the outbreak of the H1N1 virus. A third event creating a three week season-ending “Mexican Swing” is still to be confirmed. The Tour has also changed the venue and dates for the 2009 Fall Qualifying School.
The Fall Qualifying School tees off the week of Sept.7th at Hidden Lake Golf Club in Burlington, Ont. This is the first time since 1973 that the Canadian Tour has not held a Qualifying School at Royal Ashburn Golf Club.
The Iberostar Playa Paraiso Golf Club, outside Cancun Mexico will host the third playing of the US $125,000 Iberostar Riviera Maya Open, Sept. 24-27.
The final event of the Mexican Swing and the 2009 Canadian Tour season will be at the US $125,000 Riviera Nayarit Classic presented by IDN at the Litibu Golf Club in Nayarit, Mexico, Oct. 1-4.
Litibu Golf Club (pictured) is a Greg Norman design routed over rolling terrain offering dramatic uphill and downhill holes along the Pacific Ocean.
"It was unfortunate that we had to postpone events in Mexico in April but extending the season into October to keep our players competitive leading up to PGA TOUR School is something that we have wanted to do for some time," stated Canadian Tour Commissioner Richard Janes.
Details for a possible third event Sept. 17-20 at the Nicklaus designed La Loma Golf Course in San Luis Potosi, Mexico are still to be confirmed.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Canadian Tour Spring Q-School Set For Morningstar
by CanTour Communications John Berkovich
PARKSVILLE, B.C.--The Canadian Tour will unveil its newest members next week when the Spring Qualifying School takes place at Morningstar Golf Course on Vancouver Island.
The 72-hole qualifier will be held May 26-29, 2009.
Course architect Les Furber integrated the 7,018 yard, par-72 layout with many natural areas preserved to add drama and excitement.
Tour applicants will encounter undulations on several fairways and well placed bunkers throughout the course. Morningstar Golf Course's superbly conditioned greens promise a true roll.
PGA TOUR winners who earned their way onto the Canadian Tour via the Spring School include Scott McCarron, Tim Herron, Arron Oberholser, Jason Bohn, Billy Ray Brown, Chris DiMarco, and Mike Weir. Those earning cards won’t have long to wait to get started. Some 90 miles south, the $200,000 Times Colonist Open in Victoria kicks off the Canadian Swing the following week.
Golf Channel will continue to follow the Canadian Tour, taping footage for ‘Chasing the Dream.’
Players finishing in the top 80 on the 2009 money list retain exempt cards for 2010 while those from 81st to 90 earn non-exempt cards for the next season.
Entry fee is C$ 2,000.
Following the $250,000 Canadian Tour Championship that closes the season, the top two on the Order of Merit received exemptions into second stage of PGA TOUR Qualifying School.
Other Canadian Tour membership benefits include:
PARKSVILLE, B.C.--The Canadian Tour will unveil its newest members next week when the Spring Qualifying School takes place at Morningstar Golf Course on Vancouver Island.
The 72-hole qualifier will be held May 26-29, 2009.
Course architect Les Furber integrated the 7,018 yard, par-72 layout with many natural areas preserved to add drama and excitement.
Tour applicants will encounter undulations on several fairways and well placed bunkers throughout the course. Morningstar Golf Course's superbly conditioned greens promise a true roll.
PGA TOUR winners who earned their way onto the Canadian Tour via the Spring School include Scott McCarron, Tim Herron, Arron Oberholser, Jason Bohn, Billy Ray Brown, Chris DiMarco, and Mike Weir. Those earning cards won’t have long to wait to get started. Some 90 miles south, the $200,000 Times Colonist Open in Victoria kicks off the Canadian Swing the following week.
Golf Channel will continue to follow the Canadian Tour, taping footage for ‘Chasing the Dream.’
Players finishing in the top 80 on the 2009 money list retain exempt cards for 2010 while those from 81st to 90 earn non-exempt cards for the next season.
Entry fee is C$ 2,000.
Following the $250,000 Canadian Tour Championship that closes the season, the top two on the Order of Merit received exemptions into second stage of PGA TOUR Qualifying School.
Other Canadian Tour membership benefits include:
Top six finishers at each Canadian Tour event receive Official World Ranking Points;
Top five Members on the Order of Merit at a designated date receive exemptions into the PGA TOUR’s RBC Canadian Open with a sixth exemption being awarded to the Players Cup Champion;
Top five Members from the Order of Merit as of a designated date are exempted into the Nationwide Tour’s Wayne Gretzky Charity Classic;
Canadian Tour Members bypass the pre-qualifying stage for PGA TOUR Qualifying School;
The Top-10 on the Order of Merit at the close of each season receives exemptions into the following year’s U.S. Open Sectional Qualifying. Players may choose any of the Sectional Qualifying sites that fit their schedule from those in the UK, Japan and the United States;
Top available Member (within the top 5) on the final Order of Merit standings receives exempt status on the South African Sunshine Tour;
Top fifty (Members from the final Order of Merit standings earn Associate Membership status on the Southern Africa Tour;
Top five available Members from the Order of Merit final standings receive exemptions into select international events on the Tour de Las Americas over and above the co-sanctioned tournaments;
The leading Member (within the top 10) from the Order of Merit final standings receives an exemption into the final stage of the Asian Tour Qualifying School;
The winner of the Corona Mazatlan Mexican PGA Championship is exempted into the Nationwide Tour’s Mexican Open;
The top five Canadian and top five International Members from the final Canadian Bursary Standings receive funds from the $50,000 Canadian Bursary. Payouts range from $7,500 to $3,000;
Members who play in an event Pro-Am (based on Order of Merit standings) receive a $200 fee in lieu of playing for a purse;
Titleist product is provided to all competitors in the starting fields at all Canadian Tour Events held in Canada and the USA;
Golf Pride Grips and Soft Spikes are supplied to Members throughout the season;
Top eight Canadian, top eight American, and top eight International Members from the Order of Merit (at a designated date) are eligible for the International Team Match competition.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Canadian Tour - Molina Defeats Matthews In Playoff
Submitted by CanTour Communications John Berkovich
MAZATLAN, Mexico – Mauricio Molina birdied the final hole of regulation and then parred the first playoff hole to defeat Andy Matthews and capture the Corona Mexican PGA Championship.
Matthews three-putted the final hole from thirty feet to send the duo to a playoff after both finished at 11 under par 277.
Click here for full field final results!
Australian Stephen Dartnall closed with a 71 to finish solo third, one shot out of the playoff.
Finishing in a share of fourth at nine under par 279 are Mike Mezei (67), Manuel Inman (69), Stuart Anderson (68), J.J. Rodriguez (70), and third round co-leaders John Ellis and Eugene Smith who both shot 73.
Sharing tenth spot at 280 are Liam Kendregan (69), Wes Heffernan (72), Robert Gates (71), Ryan Yip, (67), and Mitch Tasker who also had a 67.
“My strategy today was to hit my drives well,” said the new champion, who took home $20,000 for the victory. “I have a strong short game so I wasn’t as worried about that.
“The only mistake I made today was, funnily enough, with my short game when I bogeyed the eighth hole.
"The greens are very complicated and difficult to read and my short game let me down at that hole.”
Standing on the 18th tee and two back, Molina’s goal was to finish second. “I didn’t think I could catch him so I just wanted to make a birdie,” he said.
“I knew where he stood and he was playing very well. I didn’t think he would three-putt his last hole.”
Matthews hit his approach at the final hole of regulation to thirty feet, ran the birdie putt some four feet past the hole and, with Molina looking on, missed the comebacker.
“I caught it a little heavy,” said Matthews, “but I thought I had an extra shot to play with and didn’t realize I was in a playoff until I saw everyone scrambling around.”
The pair went back to the tee and Matthews hit his drive into the trees where the ball stayed hung up.
Waiting in vain for a gust of wind to release his ball, he was forced to return to the tee and with Molina in the middle of the fairway, the result was a forgone conclusion.
Still, Matthews is holding his head high. “While I’m not happy with the finish, I am happy with how I’ve been playing in recent weeks,” he said.
“I’ve been working hard on focus and relaxation and it’s paying off. Being in contention like this and having the butterflies swirling is what we play for.
“This is a big confidence booster and I’m looking forward to the rest of the season.”
For a time, it looked to be anybody’s tournament.
Dartnall had a share of the lead briefly on the front side but made bogey and double-bogey at the fourth and fifth.
Although he picked up two birdies on the back side, three closing pars left him one short.
Stuart Anderson also came close. Making the turn in four under and eventually getting to five, he caught the leaders but bogeyed 17 to finish two back.
With two opening birdies, it looked like John Ellis would successfully defend his title. However, four bogeys and just one birdie the rest of the day dropped him into a tie for fourth.
Third round co-leader Eugene Smith struggled early, clawed back into a share of the lead with a birdie at nine, but then played the back nine in one over par.
IN THE CLUBHOUSE
Players from Argentina have won all four events during the Canadian Tour’s 2009 season. The Tour travels north of Mexico City next week for the San Luis Potosi Open. Russell Surber is the defending champion. San Luis Potosi is 6,000 feet above sea level.
The La Loma course is a Jack Nicklaus Signature design where the wind is often a factor.
MAZATLAN, Mexico – Mauricio Molina birdied the final hole of regulation and then parred the first playoff hole to defeat Andy Matthews and capture the Corona Mexican PGA Championship.
Matthews three-putted the final hole from thirty feet to send the duo to a playoff after both finished at 11 under par 277.
Click here for full field final results!
Australian Stephen Dartnall closed with a 71 to finish solo third, one shot out of the playoff.
Finishing in a share of fourth at nine under par 279 are Mike Mezei (67), Manuel Inman (69), Stuart Anderson (68), J.J. Rodriguez (70), and third round co-leaders John Ellis and Eugene Smith who both shot 73.
Sharing tenth spot at 280 are Liam Kendregan (69), Wes Heffernan (72), Robert Gates (71), Ryan Yip, (67), and Mitch Tasker who also had a 67.
“My strategy today was to hit my drives well,” said the new champion, who took home $20,000 for the victory. “I have a strong short game so I wasn’t as worried about that.
“The only mistake I made today was, funnily enough, with my short game when I bogeyed the eighth hole.
"The greens are very complicated and difficult to read and my short game let me down at that hole.”
Standing on the 18th tee and two back, Molina’s goal was to finish second. “I didn’t think I could catch him so I just wanted to make a birdie,” he said.
“I knew where he stood and he was playing very well. I didn’t think he would three-putt his last hole.”
Matthews hit his approach at the final hole of regulation to thirty feet, ran the birdie putt some four feet past the hole and, with Molina looking on, missed the comebacker.
“I caught it a little heavy,” said Matthews, “but I thought I had an extra shot to play with and didn’t realize I was in a playoff until I saw everyone scrambling around.”
The pair went back to the tee and Matthews hit his drive into the trees where the ball stayed hung up.
Waiting in vain for a gust of wind to release his ball, he was forced to return to the tee and with Molina in the middle of the fairway, the result was a forgone conclusion.
Still, Matthews is holding his head high. “While I’m not happy with the finish, I am happy with how I’ve been playing in recent weeks,” he said.
“I’ve been working hard on focus and relaxation and it’s paying off. Being in contention like this and having the butterflies swirling is what we play for.
“This is a big confidence booster and I’m looking forward to the rest of the season.”
For a time, it looked to be anybody’s tournament.
Dartnall had a share of the lead briefly on the front side but made bogey and double-bogey at the fourth and fifth.
Although he picked up two birdies on the back side, three closing pars left him one short.
Stuart Anderson also came close. Making the turn in four under and eventually getting to five, he caught the leaders but bogeyed 17 to finish two back.
With two opening birdies, it looked like John Ellis would successfully defend his title. However, four bogeys and just one birdie the rest of the day dropped him into a tie for fourth.
Third round co-leader Eugene Smith struggled early, clawed back into a share of the lead with a birdie at nine, but then played the back nine in one over par.
IN THE CLUBHOUSE
Players from Argentina have won all four events during the Canadian Tour’s 2009 season. The Tour travels north of Mexico City next week for the San Luis Potosi Open. Russell Surber is the defending champion. San Luis Potosi is 6,000 feet above sea level.
The La Loma course is a Jack Nicklaus Signature design where the wind is often a factor.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Canadian Tour California Q-School Wraps Up
SANTEE, Calif. – Aaron Goldberg shot a final round 73 but it was good enough to overtake David Hahn and capture the Canadian Tour’s California Q-School by one stroke.
To view the full field final rounds scores, click here!
Goldberg finished at three under par 285 while Hahn bogeyed four of his final nine for a closing 76 and a four day total of 286.
Brock Mackenzie struggled to a 75 but finished solo third at 287, one ahead of Canadian Dean Kennedy.
Finishing in fifth spot at three over par 291 was Ezequiel Reyna (72) and fellow American Brad Ward who shot 73 today.
Jesse Barnsley (71) and Canadian Ryan Plitz (72) also earned exempt cards with their four over par 292 score while Michael O’Neal defeated Hansel Koh and Jeffrey Rangel in a playoff for the final exempt spot.
Also earning non-exempt cards were Pat Howard, Mark Rice, David Jackson, Kory Storer, Phil Telliard, Michael Nicoletti, Isaac Weintraub, Greg Machtaler and Jacob Kimball.
“I got off to a slow start today and nothing was going in the hole.
“When I got on the ninth green, I figured out that my putting stance was wrong,” said Goldberg, who was three over on his round to that point.
“I made an adjustment and then made those three birdies on the back nine."
Hahn, who began the day with a two shot lead, looked to be running away with it when he led by four at the turn.
However, four bogeys on the back nine - including one at the last hole - dropped him to second spot.
“I was fortunate that David couldn’t make the putts after we made the turn,” continued Goldberg.
“He had been playing so well to that point but I also left a couple of shots out there."
Although it doesn’t count as an official win, Goldberg’s goal this week was the title.
“You want to get a card but you play to win.
“Once we got well into the tournament, I wasn’t worried about the card; I was focusing on winning this thing.
"Winning the tournament is a big affirmation of how well I have been playing and gives me a lot of confidence going into the season.”
The newest members of the Canadian Tour will get their first taste of Tour action the week of April 20 when they tee it up at the prestigious Mexican PGA Championship, which kicks off the four-event Mexican Swing.
Exempt Status
Aaron Goldberg
David Hahn
Brock Mackenzie
Dean Kennedy
Ezequiel Reyna
Brad Ward
Ryan Plitz
Jesse Barnsley
Michael O’Neal
Non Exempt in Order of Rank
Jeffrey Rangel
Hansol Koh
Pat Howard
Mark Rice
David Jackson
Kory Storer
Phil Telliard
Michael Nicoletti
Isaac Weintraub
Greg Machtaler
Jacob Kimball
To view the full field final rounds scores, click here!
Goldberg finished at three under par 285 while Hahn bogeyed four of his final nine for a closing 76 and a four day total of 286.
Brock Mackenzie struggled to a 75 but finished solo third at 287, one ahead of Canadian Dean Kennedy.
Finishing in fifth spot at three over par 291 was Ezequiel Reyna (72) and fellow American Brad Ward who shot 73 today.
Jesse Barnsley (71) and Canadian Ryan Plitz (72) also earned exempt cards with their four over par 292 score while Michael O’Neal defeated Hansel Koh and Jeffrey Rangel in a playoff for the final exempt spot.
Also earning non-exempt cards were Pat Howard, Mark Rice, David Jackson, Kory Storer, Phil Telliard, Michael Nicoletti, Isaac Weintraub, Greg Machtaler and Jacob Kimball.
“I got off to a slow start today and nothing was going in the hole.
“When I got on the ninth green, I figured out that my putting stance was wrong,” said Goldberg, who was three over on his round to that point.
“I made an adjustment and then made those three birdies on the back nine."
Hahn, who began the day with a two shot lead, looked to be running away with it when he led by four at the turn.
However, four bogeys on the back nine - including one at the last hole - dropped him to second spot.
“I was fortunate that David couldn’t make the putts after we made the turn,” continued Goldberg.
“He had been playing so well to that point but I also left a couple of shots out there."
Although it doesn’t count as an official win, Goldberg’s goal this week was the title.
“You want to get a card but you play to win.
“Once we got well into the tournament, I wasn’t worried about the card; I was focusing on winning this thing.
"Winning the tournament is a big affirmation of how well I have been playing and gives me a lot of confidence going into the season.”
The newest members of the Canadian Tour will get their first taste of Tour action the week of April 20 when they tee it up at the prestigious Mexican PGA Championship, which kicks off the four-event Mexican Swing.
Exempt Status
Aaron Goldberg
David Hahn
Brock Mackenzie
Dean Kennedy
Ezequiel Reyna
Brad Ward
Ryan Plitz
Jesse Barnsley
Michael O’Neal
Non Exempt in Order of Rank
Jeffrey Rangel
Hansol Koh
Pat Howard
Mark Rice
David Jackson
Kory Storer
Phil Telliard
Michael Nicoletti
Isaac Weintraub
Greg Machtaler
Jacob Kimball
Friday, March 20, 2009
Canadian Tour Florida Qualifying Schtool - Final Results
BROOKSVILLE, Fla. – Welshman Ryan Thomas ran away with the Canadian Tour’s Florida Qualifying School on Thursday, taking the pressure cooker by six strokes over American Jason Anthony who closed with a 68.
Click here for a full list of final round results.
Thomas shot 14 under par 274 for the week.
Sharing third spot at six under 282 are Jason Kang (68), Brett Lederer (69) and Joseph Greiner who shot 72.
Tyler Harris closed with a 73 but it was good enough for five under 283 and solo sixth while Ciaran McMonagle was alone in seventh at 284 after a 70.
The battle for the final two exempt spots at 285 was won by Ryan Panichpakdee and John McLean who defeated Barry O’Neill.
Earning non-exempt cards are O’Neill, Joe Johnson, Nemanja Savic, Jim Fitzpatrick, Brian Benedictson, Matt Johnston, Trey Denton, Casey Watabu, Brad Tilley and Lucas Lee.
Starting his day with three consecutive birdies, the 2005 Welsh Amateur champion coasted home in 70 to pick up $2,000 and a Canadian Tour ticket.
“Yeah, I’m feeling pretty good and played really well,” he smiled.
“I was able to come here three weeks ago and practice here a few times. It was my putting that made the big difference this week.
“I didn’t want to think about the big lead I had today, I just wanted to go out and make some birdies. I was fortunate to have a fast start and then was able to relax.
“This Tour comes highly recommended from a lot of players and once I heard that, I wanted to come out here to continue my progress.”
With a Tour card in his back pocket, the rugby fanatic is returning to Wales to cheer the home side at Six Nations.
“We’re playing Ireland on Saturday and I want to be there,” he said. “I hope we give it to them good but I think it will be a close match with us winning.”
Brian Benedictson achieved a measure of redemption. Losing his card last year and failing to advance through the Fall Q-School, the Comox, B.C., native earned non-exempt status with his performance this week.
“It was a matter of staying in the moment and taking it one shot at a time,” said Benedictson.
“At a tournament like this, the mind has a tendency to wander to things past and future because of what is at stake.
"While I did leave some shots out there this week, I am happy with how I played.”
Benedictson tried something different this winter to prepare him for the season. “I worked with a coach for the first time ever,” he explained.
“I also made sure I was better prepared mentally for the pressure of Q-School this time.
“I had a great attitude out there; even when things weren’t go so well during the round. I would make sure I stayed focused on what I was doing rather than what had happened.”
Fellow Canadian Matt Johnston began the third round tied for the lead but consecutive 75s dropped him to non-exempt status.
“I’m not sure why but I just didn’t play well the last two days,” said Johnston. “There is a lot of pressure here but it wasn’t nerves as much as it was simply hitting bad shots.”
Two over on his round through eight, Johnston hit his approach at No. 9 into the water and made double-bogey.
Now facing the possibility of losing any sort of status, Johnston bounced back with birdies at ten and twelve.
“I didn’t panic,” he answered, when asked if the double deflated him. “I knew there were a few birdies possibilities on the back side and fought hard for every shot.
"I knew I didn’t have my good stuff today so I just bore down and did it. It was a great learning week under some very intense pressure."
Johnston’s Q-School pressure isn't finished. Anxious to achieve full status, he’s on his way to next week’s California Q-School at Carlton Oaks.
In the Clubhouse
Adam Kase holds the record for Q-School winning margin. He defeated Jack Kay Jr. by 12 in 1987.
Exempt Status
Ryan Thomas
Jason Anthony
Jason Kang
Brett Lederer
Joseph Greiner
Tyler Harris
Ciaran McMonagle
Ryan Panichpakdee
John McLean
Non-Exempt Status in order of Rank
Barry O’Neill
Joe Johnson
Nemanja Savic
Jim Fitzpatrick
Brian Benedictson
Matt Johnston
Trey Denton
Casey Watabu
Brad Tilley
Lucas Lee
Click here for a full list of final round results.
Thomas shot 14 under par 274 for the week.
Sharing third spot at six under 282 are Jason Kang (68), Brett Lederer (69) and Joseph Greiner who shot 72.
Tyler Harris closed with a 73 but it was good enough for five under 283 and solo sixth while Ciaran McMonagle was alone in seventh at 284 after a 70.
The battle for the final two exempt spots at 285 was won by Ryan Panichpakdee and John McLean who defeated Barry O’Neill.
Earning non-exempt cards are O’Neill, Joe Johnson, Nemanja Savic, Jim Fitzpatrick, Brian Benedictson, Matt Johnston, Trey Denton, Casey Watabu, Brad Tilley and Lucas Lee.
Starting his day with three consecutive birdies, the 2005 Welsh Amateur champion coasted home in 70 to pick up $2,000 and a Canadian Tour ticket.
“Yeah, I’m feeling pretty good and played really well,” he smiled.
“I was able to come here three weeks ago and practice here a few times. It was my putting that made the big difference this week.
“I didn’t want to think about the big lead I had today, I just wanted to go out and make some birdies. I was fortunate to have a fast start and then was able to relax.
“This Tour comes highly recommended from a lot of players and once I heard that, I wanted to come out here to continue my progress.”
With a Tour card in his back pocket, the rugby fanatic is returning to Wales to cheer the home side at Six Nations.
“We’re playing Ireland on Saturday and I want to be there,” he said. “I hope we give it to them good but I think it will be a close match with us winning.”
Brian Benedictson achieved a measure of redemption. Losing his card last year and failing to advance through the Fall Q-School, the Comox, B.C., native earned non-exempt status with his performance this week.
“It was a matter of staying in the moment and taking it one shot at a time,” said Benedictson.
“At a tournament like this, the mind has a tendency to wander to things past and future because of what is at stake.
"While I did leave some shots out there this week, I am happy with how I played.”
Benedictson tried something different this winter to prepare him for the season. “I worked with a coach for the first time ever,” he explained.
“I also made sure I was better prepared mentally for the pressure of Q-School this time.
“I had a great attitude out there; even when things weren’t go so well during the round. I would make sure I stayed focused on what I was doing rather than what had happened.”
Fellow Canadian Matt Johnston began the third round tied for the lead but consecutive 75s dropped him to non-exempt status.
“I’m not sure why but I just didn’t play well the last two days,” said Johnston. “There is a lot of pressure here but it wasn’t nerves as much as it was simply hitting bad shots.”
Two over on his round through eight, Johnston hit his approach at No. 9 into the water and made double-bogey.
Now facing the possibility of losing any sort of status, Johnston bounced back with birdies at ten and twelve.
“I didn’t panic,” he answered, when asked if the double deflated him. “I knew there were a few birdies possibilities on the back side and fought hard for every shot.
"I knew I didn’t have my good stuff today so I just bore down and did it. It was a great learning week under some very intense pressure."
Johnston’s Q-School pressure isn't finished. Anxious to achieve full status, he’s on his way to next week’s California Q-School at Carlton Oaks.
In the Clubhouse
Adam Kase holds the record for Q-School winning margin. He defeated Jack Kay Jr. by 12 in 1987.
Exempt Status
Ryan Thomas
Jason Anthony
Jason Kang
Brett Lederer
Joseph Greiner
Tyler Harris
Ciaran McMonagle
Ryan Panichpakdee
John McLean
Non-Exempt Status in order of Rank
Barry O’Neill
Joe Johnson
Nemanja Savic
Jim Fitzpatrick
Brian Benedictson
Matt Johnston
Trey Denton
Casey Watabu
Brad Tilley
Lucas Lee
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Big Break Prince Edward Island announces its premiere in HD
ORLANDO, Fla. -- It is money that will matter in the 11th season of the popular Golf Channel reality series Big Break. For the first time, contestants will compete for cash - $100,000 to be exact - that can provide the winner a means to finance their dream of playing on a Tour for an entire year.
Premiering April 20 for the first time in HD, Big Break Prince Edward Island will showcase six females and six males in a competition that test every phase of their games, course management and mental toughness.
Each of the 12 contestants will compete on equal ground with no consideration of gender when it comes to elimination. Big Break showcases highly skilled golfers pitted against each other in a variety of challenges that test their physical skills and mental toughness, with the ultimate winner awarded his/her "Big Break."
The 12 competitors in Big Break Prince Edward Island are:
Kim Kouwabunpat (27, Upland, Calif.) - Focused and driven, Kouwabunpat (pronounced "Kowa boon pat") has the uncanny ability to pick herself up when she's been knocked down. The former Stanford University golfer has played on professional tours all over the world in her attempt to make it to the LPGA Tour.
Caroline Larsson (24, Orlando, Fla.) - The Stockholm, Sweden, native is considered to be one of the most talented competitors in the field. An accomplished player on the Duramed FUTURES Tour over the last two years, she competed in the 2007 LPGA Final Qualifying Tournament.
Brenda McLarnon (25, Charleston, S.C.) - The Belfast, Ireland, native is brutally honest and outspoken, and brings humor and conflict to everything she does. Having played the Duramed FUTURES Tour the last three years, she learned the sacrifice it takes to play professional golf and is ready to capitalize on the hard-earned experience.
Gerina Mendoza (23, Roswell, N.M.) - Mendoza picked up the game in her late teens but is one of the most naturally gifted competitors in the series. A member of the Duramed FUTURES Tour, last year she competed in the LPGA Final Qualifying Tournament, where she missed the cut. With her length off the tee, Mendoza will be a force to be reckoned with in Big Break Prince Edward Island for both the ladies and men.
Blair O'Neal (27, Tempe, Ariz.) - A four-year starter at Arizona State University, she twice won the NCAA Long Drive Championship but has been out of professional golf since 2006 pursuing a modeling career. Before leaving the fairway for the runway, she competed on numerous Tours around the world.
Nicole Sikora (25, Yonkers, N.Y.) - Sikora may be the most inexperienced competitor on Big Break Prince Edward Island. After an unsuccessful rookie year on the DURAMED FUTURES Tour in 2007, she accepted a job on Wall Street as an executive assistant for a New York stock broker. Golf has taken a backseat, but now that her business career is on the fast track, she is slowly finding more time to re-devote to the game.
Derek Gillespie (30, Oshawa, Ontario) - The only Canadian in the cast, Gillespie was once labeled "the next great Canadian golfer" by fellow countryman and PGA TOUR professional Mike Weir. One of the most talented and experienced in the cast, Gillespie is looking to realize his dream of playing on the PGA TOUR after many years of missed opportunities and bad breaks.
Robert Read (30, Seekonk, Mass.) - Reid turned professional to play in Big Break Prince Edward Island. Read will use his humor and prodigious length to level the playing field. Quite the bomber, he has hit drives over 420 yards in long drive competitions.
Eugene Smith (30, Glen Ridge, N.J.) - Smith won the 2000 NCAA Big East Championship and later was the Seton Hall Athlete of the Year in 2001. The Canadian Tour veteran once shot 59 at his home course in New Jersey in a round that included a hole in one.
Brian Skatell (36, Virginia Beach, Va.) - A very confident player, Skatell prides himself on his meticulous work ethic and considers himself to be mentally strong. Though lacking the same amount of tournament experience as many of the other contestants, he firmly believes that even the best in the field can't match his skill level.
William Thompson (22, Bracey, Va.) - A self-admitted and rather obvious country boy, William "Football" Thompson will be one of the most unique personalities in the cast. The youngest competitor, his Big Break experience will be a trial by fire.
Aaron Wright (31, Orlando, Fla.) - Wright put his dream of playing on the PGA TOUR on hold to serve a six-year tour of duty with the Marines, including a five-month stint in Afghanistan. In 2008, the United States Navel Academy graduate played the Hooters Tour and made the cut in a Nationwide Tour event. He lost to Tiger Woods 4&3 in the quarterfinal match of the 1992 U.S. Junior Amateur Championship.
Past Big Break champions won tournament exemptions to compete on some of the world's top professional circuits, such as the PGA TOUR, Champions Tour, European Tour, LPGA Tour, Nationwide Tour and Canadian Tour. Former Big Breakers Tommy Gainey and James Nitties, who tied for fourth in his third TOUR start at the FBR Open, will compete on the PGA TOUR in 2009 while four previous female contestants will play on the LPGA Tour.
Adding insight to Big Break Prince Edward Island as co-hosts will be former PGA TOUR professional Charlie Rymer and Golf Digest Senior Editor Stina Sternberg.
Shot at Mill River Golf Course in Prince Edward Island, it marks the first time a Canadian location has hosted Big Break. Located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence on Canada's east coast, Prince Edward Island boasts more than 32 courses that span from one end of the Island to the other.
One of Canada's top golf destinations, Prince Edward Island offers other recreational activities, including kayaking, cycling, touring, or lazing on a sandy beach.
Premiering April 20 for the first time in HD, Big Break Prince Edward Island will showcase six females and six males in a competition that test every phase of their games, course management and mental toughness.
Each of the 12 contestants will compete on equal ground with no consideration of gender when it comes to elimination. Big Break showcases highly skilled golfers pitted against each other in a variety of challenges that test their physical skills and mental toughness, with the ultimate winner awarded his/her "Big Break."
The 12 competitors in Big Break Prince Edward Island are:
Kim Kouwabunpat (27, Upland, Calif.) - Focused and driven, Kouwabunpat (pronounced "Kowa boon pat") has the uncanny ability to pick herself up when she's been knocked down. The former Stanford University golfer has played on professional tours all over the world in her attempt to make it to the LPGA Tour.
Caroline Larsson (24, Orlando, Fla.) - The Stockholm, Sweden, native is considered to be one of the most talented competitors in the field. An accomplished player on the Duramed FUTURES Tour over the last two years, she competed in the 2007 LPGA Final Qualifying Tournament.
Brenda McLarnon (25, Charleston, S.C.) - The Belfast, Ireland, native is brutally honest and outspoken, and brings humor and conflict to everything she does. Having played the Duramed FUTURES Tour the last three years, she learned the sacrifice it takes to play professional golf and is ready to capitalize on the hard-earned experience.
Gerina Mendoza (23, Roswell, N.M.) - Mendoza picked up the game in her late teens but is one of the most naturally gifted competitors in the series. A member of the Duramed FUTURES Tour, last year she competed in the LPGA Final Qualifying Tournament, where she missed the cut. With her length off the tee, Mendoza will be a force to be reckoned with in Big Break Prince Edward Island for both the ladies and men.
Blair O'Neal (27, Tempe, Ariz.) - A four-year starter at Arizona State University, she twice won the NCAA Long Drive Championship but has been out of professional golf since 2006 pursuing a modeling career. Before leaving the fairway for the runway, she competed on numerous Tours around the world.
Nicole Sikora (25, Yonkers, N.Y.) - Sikora may be the most inexperienced competitor on Big Break Prince Edward Island. After an unsuccessful rookie year on the DURAMED FUTURES Tour in 2007, she accepted a job on Wall Street as an executive assistant for a New York stock broker. Golf has taken a backseat, but now that her business career is on the fast track, she is slowly finding more time to re-devote to the game.
Derek Gillespie (30, Oshawa, Ontario) - The only Canadian in the cast, Gillespie was once labeled "the next great Canadian golfer" by fellow countryman and PGA TOUR professional Mike Weir. One of the most talented and experienced in the cast, Gillespie is looking to realize his dream of playing on the PGA TOUR after many years of missed opportunities and bad breaks.
Robert Read (30, Seekonk, Mass.) - Reid turned professional to play in Big Break Prince Edward Island. Read will use his humor and prodigious length to level the playing field. Quite the bomber, he has hit drives over 420 yards in long drive competitions.
Eugene Smith (30, Glen Ridge, N.J.) - Smith won the 2000 NCAA Big East Championship and later was the Seton Hall Athlete of the Year in 2001. The Canadian Tour veteran once shot 59 at his home course in New Jersey in a round that included a hole in one.
Brian Skatell (36, Virginia Beach, Va.) - A very confident player, Skatell prides himself on his meticulous work ethic and considers himself to be mentally strong. Though lacking the same amount of tournament experience as many of the other contestants, he firmly believes that even the best in the field can't match his skill level.
William Thompson (22, Bracey, Va.) - A self-admitted and rather obvious country boy, William "Football" Thompson will be one of the most unique personalities in the cast. The youngest competitor, his Big Break experience will be a trial by fire.
Aaron Wright (31, Orlando, Fla.) - Wright put his dream of playing on the PGA TOUR on hold to serve a six-year tour of duty with the Marines, including a five-month stint in Afghanistan. In 2008, the United States Navel Academy graduate played the Hooters Tour and made the cut in a Nationwide Tour event. He lost to Tiger Woods 4&3 in the quarterfinal match of the 1992 U.S. Junior Amateur Championship.
Past Big Break champions won tournament exemptions to compete on some of the world's top professional circuits, such as the PGA TOUR, Champions Tour, European Tour, LPGA Tour, Nationwide Tour and Canadian Tour. Former Big Breakers Tommy Gainey and James Nitties, who tied for fourth in his third TOUR start at the FBR Open, will compete on the PGA TOUR in 2009 while four previous female contestants will play on the LPGA Tour.
Adding insight to Big Break Prince Edward Island as co-hosts will be former PGA TOUR professional Charlie Rymer and Golf Digest Senior Editor Stina Sternberg.
Shot at Mill River Golf Course in Prince Edward Island, it marks the first time a Canadian location has hosted Big Break. Located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence on Canada's east coast, Prince Edward Island boasts more than 32 courses that span from one end of the Island to the other.
One of Canada's top golf destinations, Prince Edward Island offers other recreational activities, including kayaking, cycling, touring, or lazing on a sandy beach.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Asian Tour Qualifying School Results
Vernon, B.C.'s Chris Baryla fires a final round 75 and misses by 2 shots.
Click here for full field final results.
Rayong, Thailand, January 17: Japan's Daisuke Maruyama triumphed in a play-off at the Asian Tour's Qualifying School presented by Sports Authority of Thailand with Mohammad Siddikur and Rory Hie becoming the first Bangladeshi and Indonesian players respectively to earn full playing rights on Saturday.
Thanks to steady putting, Maruyama defeated England's Ally Mellor in the second play-off at the St Andrews 2000 course to finish on top of the leaderboard.
Colombia's Eduardo Herrera ended his week in third spot after a 69 while South African James Kamte nailed a strong 67 to claim fourth place.
Hie emerged as the first Indonesian golfer to earn a card when he finished in a tie for 30th place while Siddikur followed suit when he shot a 76 to finish in joint 33rd place.
A total of 40 players earned their cards for the 2009 season.
Maruyama, a former US PGA Tour player, carded a 68 for a 353 total and was forced to a play-off after Mellor had birdied the final par five 18th hole in regulation play. After posting matching pars in the first play-off on the 18th hole, Maruyama holed a six feet birdie putt in the second play-off hole to seal the top spot.
"I came here this week hoping do my best and I did just that so I am very pleased with my performance. It has been a tough week but a good experience and the result has given me the perfect start to the 2009 season," said Maruyama, with five top-10 finishes on the US PGA Tour.
England's Mellor, who turned professional in 2004, walked away pleased with his overall performance in the last two weeks.
"I've been playing here since the First Stage last week so I am happy with how I competed at the Qualifying School. I'm a bit gutted to lose in the play-off but this is still a good performance overall," said Mellor.
Siddikur, with two professional wins on the Indian circuit, shot a 76 and was happy to be the first player in his country to compete on the Asian Tour.
"I am really pleased. This is the toughest week of golf for me and it means a lot to earn my card on the Asian Tour. I am going to call my parents to tell them the good news.
"This week has been a great experience and for the 2009 season, I would like to play in as many events as possible," said Siddikur.
Indonesia's Rory Hie shared a similar sentiment when he made it through the top-40 thanks to a 72 today.
"I turned it around today. I met a guy out there who is a teaching professional in United States. He gave me some tips which helped me the past couple of days.
"I'm really excited to have earned my card on the Asian Tour and look forward to a fruitful year, hopefully even a win if possible," said Hie, who is Indonesia's top ranked golfer.
South African James Kamte battled through an injured toe on the way to an impressive 67 to finish in fourth spot
"I cut my right toe yesterday and it required 12 stitches. I was not on any painkillers as I didn't want to think about it. It's been a great week and I hope to have a smooth sailing year on the Asian Tour," said Kamte.
Thailand's Pariya Junhasavasdikul was the highest ranked local finisher when he posted a 69 and ended in a tie for fifth place.
"It was a good week, I can't complain. I never expected to finish so strongly and I hope to enjoy a similar ride this year," said the 24-year-old golfer, with three wins on the domestic circuit.
After posting a 79 on Friday, Australia's Adam Le Vesconte scorched the course in the final round firing a 67 that included eight birdies against two dropped shots.
"After yesterday's debacle, I was an angry man but I calmed down. Today it was nice with a six under total.
"This game is so frustrating as one day I can play well and not the next. I am very happy to earn playing rights this season. I had my wife Toni on the bag for the first time this week. It will be her first and last time but it was great to have someone like my wife on the bag as she can calm me down on course," said the Australian golfer, who finished in a tie for 26th place.
Finland's Pasi Purhonen and Australia's Bradley Lamb fired similar 71s and narrowly missed the cut when the duo finished in a tie for 41st spot.
About the Asian TourAs the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Carlsberg (Official Beer), ESPN Star Sports (Official Regional TV Broadcaster), Pin High (Official Apparel Partner), Ricoh (Official Office Solutions Provider), Sofitel (Official Hotel), TIME and FORTUNE (Corporate Partner) and Srixon (Official Ball). Sentosa, Singapore's premier island resort getaway, is the Home of the Asian Tour.
Click here for full field final results.
Rayong, Thailand, January 17: Japan's Daisuke Maruyama triumphed in a play-off at the Asian Tour's Qualifying School presented by Sports Authority of Thailand with Mohammad Siddikur and Rory Hie becoming the first Bangladeshi and Indonesian players respectively to earn full playing rights on Saturday.
Thanks to steady putting, Maruyama defeated England's Ally Mellor in the second play-off at the St Andrews 2000 course to finish on top of the leaderboard.
Colombia's Eduardo Herrera ended his week in third spot after a 69 while South African James Kamte nailed a strong 67 to claim fourth place.
Hie emerged as the first Indonesian golfer to earn a card when he finished in a tie for 30th place while Siddikur followed suit when he shot a 76 to finish in joint 33rd place.
A total of 40 players earned their cards for the 2009 season.
Maruyama, a former US PGA Tour player, carded a 68 for a 353 total and was forced to a play-off after Mellor had birdied the final par five 18th hole in regulation play. After posting matching pars in the first play-off on the 18th hole, Maruyama holed a six feet birdie putt in the second play-off hole to seal the top spot.
"I came here this week hoping do my best and I did just that so I am very pleased with my performance. It has been a tough week but a good experience and the result has given me the perfect start to the 2009 season," said Maruyama, with five top-10 finishes on the US PGA Tour.
England's Mellor, who turned professional in 2004, walked away pleased with his overall performance in the last two weeks.
"I've been playing here since the First Stage last week so I am happy with how I competed at the Qualifying School. I'm a bit gutted to lose in the play-off but this is still a good performance overall," said Mellor.
Siddikur, with two professional wins on the Indian circuit, shot a 76 and was happy to be the first player in his country to compete on the Asian Tour.
"I am really pleased. This is the toughest week of golf for me and it means a lot to earn my card on the Asian Tour. I am going to call my parents to tell them the good news.
"This week has been a great experience and for the 2009 season, I would like to play in as many events as possible," said Siddikur.
Indonesia's Rory Hie shared a similar sentiment when he made it through the top-40 thanks to a 72 today.
"I turned it around today. I met a guy out there who is a teaching professional in United States. He gave me some tips which helped me the past couple of days.
"I'm really excited to have earned my card on the Asian Tour and look forward to a fruitful year, hopefully even a win if possible," said Hie, who is Indonesia's top ranked golfer.
South African James Kamte battled through an injured toe on the way to an impressive 67 to finish in fourth spot
"I cut my right toe yesterday and it required 12 stitches. I was not on any painkillers as I didn't want to think about it. It's been a great week and I hope to have a smooth sailing year on the Asian Tour," said Kamte.
Thailand's Pariya Junhasavasdikul was the highest ranked local finisher when he posted a 69 and ended in a tie for fifth place.
"It was a good week, I can't complain. I never expected to finish so strongly and I hope to enjoy a similar ride this year," said the 24-year-old golfer, with three wins on the domestic circuit.
After posting a 79 on Friday, Australia's Adam Le Vesconte scorched the course in the final round firing a 67 that included eight birdies against two dropped shots.
"After yesterday's debacle, I was an angry man but I calmed down. Today it was nice with a six under total.
"This game is so frustrating as one day I can play well and not the next. I am very happy to earn playing rights this season. I had my wife Toni on the bag for the first time this week. It will be her first and last time but it was great to have someone like my wife on the bag as she can calm me down on course," said the Australian golfer, who finished in a tie for 26th place.
Finland's Pasi Purhonen and Australia's Bradley Lamb fired similar 71s and narrowly missed the cut when the duo finished in a tie for 41st spot.
About the Asian TourAs the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Carlsberg (Official Beer), ESPN Star Sports (Official Regional TV Broadcaster), Pin High (Official Apparel Partner), Ricoh (Official Office Solutions Provider), Sofitel (Official Hotel), TIME and FORTUNE (Corporate Partner) and Srixon (Official Ball). Sentosa, Singapore's premier island resort getaway, is the Home of the Asian Tour.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Two Canadians make the final stage of the Asian Tour Qualifying School
RAYONG, Thailand – Canadian Tour members Darren Griff and Chris Baryla were among a group of 87 players advancing to final stage of the Asian Tour Qualifying School today.
Also advancing were Canadian Tour affiliate member Stephen Reed and Australian Mitch Tasker.
Baryla, who played the Nationwide Tour from 2006 to 2008 before injuries slowed him down, was in fine form with rounds of 73-70-68-76-287 to share fifth spot at the St. Andrews layout with Tasker who fired steady rounds of 71-70-72-74.
Tasker, 23, joined the Canadian Tour at the Spring 2008 Q-School with a tie for seventh at Montreal his best finish.
Griff played the Asian Tour in 2005 and enjoyed his best Canadian Tour season in 2006 with five top tens including a runner-up finish at the MTS Classic.
The Nanaimo, B.C., native has played professional golf all over the world and represented Canada at the 2004 World Cup alongside Stuart Anderson.
Reed played the Canadian Tour’s Latin America swing in late 2008 and played his college golf at Texas A&M University.
“It seemed to me, with all the best players in the world coming to the States to play, it was time for me to outsource my talent, as well,” Reed told Dave Seanor.
“I need to think outside the box and beyond the borders and maybe back-door my way onto the PGA or Nationwide Tour.”
Daniel Im will be joining the quartet at the Final Stage next week, which will be played over five rounds with the Top-40 and ties earning playing privileges for the 2009 season. Im qualified via his finish on the Canadian Tour's 2008 Order of Merit.
Jim Seki, John Shin, Michael Choi, Andrew Johnson, Will Yanagisawa and Dean Kennedy were in the field but failed to advance.
In the Clubhouse
Half a world away in Johannesburg, South Africa, Wes Heffernan, Alan McLean, Ryan Cairns and Graham DeLaet are in the field. DeLaet, fresh from his World Cup experience shot a solid 66 in the second round to climb up the leaderboard while McLean fired a 65.
Heffernan – who partnered DeLaet in China - and Cairns both shot 73 and will miss the cut.
Also advancing were Canadian Tour affiliate member Stephen Reed and Australian Mitch Tasker.
Baryla, who played the Nationwide Tour from 2006 to 2008 before injuries slowed him down, was in fine form with rounds of 73-70-68-76-287 to share fifth spot at the St. Andrews layout with Tasker who fired steady rounds of 71-70-72-74.
Tasker, 23, joined the Canadian Tour at the Spring 2008 Q-School with a tie for seventh at Montreal his best finish.
Griff played the Asian Tour in 2005 and enjoyed his best Canadian Tour season in 2006 with five top tens including a runner-up finish at the MTS Classic.
The Nanaimo, B.C., native has played professional golf all over the world and represented Canada at the 2004 World Cup alongside Stuart Anderson.
Reed played the Canadian Tour’s Latin America swing in late 2008 and played his college golf at Texas A&M University.
“It seemed to me, with all the best players in the world coming to the States to play, it was time for me to outsource my talent, as well,” Reed told Dave Seanor.
“I need to think outside the box and beyond the borders and maybe back-door my way onto the PGA or Nationwide Tour.”
Daniel Im will be joining the quartet at the Final Stage next week, which will be played over five rounds with the Top-40 and ties earning playing privileges for the 2009 season. Im qualified via his finish on the Canadian Tour's 2008 Order of Merit.
Jim Seki, John Shin, Michael Choi, Andrew Johnson, Will Yanagisawa and Dean Kennedy were in the field but failed to advance.
In the Clubhouse
Half a world away in Johannesburg, South Africa, Wes Heffernan, Alan McLean, Ryan Cairns and Graham DeLaet are in the field. DeLaet, fresh from his World Cup experience shot a solid 66 in the second round to climb up the leaderboard while McLean fired a 65.
Heffernan – who partnered DeLaet in China - and Cairns both shot 73 and will miss the cut.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Canadian Rutledge wins Q-school event
by Jeff Brooke
Three more Canadians, led by veteran journeyman Jim Rutledge, advanced to the third and final stage of the PGA Tour's qualifying school on Saturday. Two others came agonizingly close.
Rutledge shot seven-under-par 65 to win one of Q-school's remaining two second-stage tournaments. He finished the four-day tournament at Oak Valley Golf Club in Beaumont, Calif., at 15-under 273, three shots clear of U.S. runner-up Steve Friesen.
Rutledge had his first full-time stint on the PGA Tour in 2007 as a 47-year-old rookie.
By being the Beaumont medalist, he gets another chance to get back on golf's biggest stage.
The top 25 at the final stage earn PGA Tour cards for 2009. The rest of the field gets at least part-time status on the lower-tier Nationwide Tour.
Canadian Tour rookie of the year Kent Eger and teen prodigy Richard Lee will join Rutledge at the 108-hole final stage, which begins Dec. 3.
Eger of Regina shot three-under 69 on Saturday at Beaumont to reach 10 under and tie for seventh place. Lee, an 18-year-old from Vancouver who turned pro at 16, was two shots further back, tied for 14th place.
While those three celebrated, Chris Baryla felt the sting of narrow defeat. The Vernon, B.C., golfer, who played on the Nationwide Tour this year but was hampered by chronic back problems, finished 72 holes at six under, tied for 20th spot — one stroke away from advancing.
Just the top 19 in Beaumont moved on.
Bryn Parry of North Vancouver, B.C., suffered a similar fate at another second-stage tournament in Lantana, Tex. The teaching pro, who played regularly on the Nationwide Tour in 2007, tied for 23rd place at one-over 289, a shot beneath the cut line.
Five other Canadians competed in Beaumont and Lantana but did not advance. Julien Trudeau of Montreal and David McKenzie tied for 29th at Beaumont, and Barrett Jarosch of Edmonton shared 47th place.
Two stars of the Canadian Tour — Derek Gillespie of Oshawa, Ont., and Wes Heffernan of Calgary — failed to get through at Lantana Golf Club.
The Q-school's second stage had six tournaments in total, with roughly the top 20 at each advancing to the final stage. The Beaumont and Lantana events concluded Saturday, and the other four wrapped up on Nov. 15. Four Canadians survived at the first four events — Brennan Webb, Jon Mills, David Hearn, and Dustin Risdon. Just four Canadians made it to the final stage in 2007.
This year's final stage will be played at PGA West in La Quinta, Calif. Golf Channel will broadcast the final three rounds.
Three more Canadians, led by veteran journeyman Jim Rutledge, advanced to the third and final stage of the PGA Tour's qualifying school on Saturday. Two others came agonizingly close.
Rutledge shot seven-under-par 65 to win one of Q-school's remaining two second-stage tournaments. He finished the four-day tournament at Oak Valley Golf Club in Beaumont, Calif., at 15-under 273, three shots clear of U.S. runner-up Steve Friesen.
Rutledge had his first full-time stint on the PGA Tour in 2007 as a 47-year-old rookie.
By being the Beaumont medalist, he gets another chance to get back on golf's biggest stage.
The top 25 at the final stage earn PGA Tour cards for 2009. The rest of the field gets at least part-time status on the lower-tier Nationwide Tour.
Canadian Tour rookie of the year Kent Eger and teen prodigy Richard Lee will join Rutledge at the 108-hole final stage, which begins Dec. 3.
Eger of Regina shot three-under 69 on Saturday at Beaumont to reach 10 under and tie for seventh place. Lee, an 18-year-old from Vancouver who turned pro at 16, was two shots further back, tied for 14th place.
While those three celebrated, Chris Baryla felt the sting of narrow defeat. The Vernon, B.C., golfer, who played on the Nationwide Tour this year but was hampered by chronic back problems, finished 72 holes at six under, tied for 20th spot — one stroke away from advancing.
Just the top 19 in Beaumont moved on.
Bryn Parry of North Vancouver, B.C., suffered a similar fate at another second-stage tournament in Lantana, Tex. The teaching pro, who played regularly on the Nationwide Tour in 2007, tied for 23rd place at one-over 289, a shot beneath the cut line.
Five other Canadians competed in Beaumont and Lantana but did not advance. Julien Trudeau of Montreal and David McKenzie tied for 29th at Beaumont, and Barrett Jarosch of Edmonton shared 47th place.
Two stars of the Canadian Tour — Derek Gillespie of Oshawa, Ont., and Wes Heffernan of Calgary — failed to get through at Lantana Golf Club.
The Q-school's second stage had six tournaments in total, with roughly the top 20 at each advancing to the final stage. The Beaumont and Lantana events concluded Saturday, and the other four wrapped up on Nov. 15. Four Canadians survived at the first four events — Brennan Webb, Jon Mills, David Hearn, and Dustin Risdon. Just four Canadians made it to the final stage in 2007.
This year's final stage will be played at PGA West in La Quinta, Calif. Golf Channel will broadcast the final three rounds.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Vancouver Golf Tour - Updates
2009 VGT MEMBERSHIP AND SCHEDULE
Our 2009 membership sign-up will be available on the website very soon! Early bird membership pricing will be available until the end of 2008, after which time our regular 2009 membership rates will apply. We are finalizing the last few details of our event schedule for next year and should have all tournament sites and dates confirmed by early December.
2008 VGT TOURNAMENT VIDEOS
We have compiled a collection of our video footage throughout the year and archived as much as we can in our Video archives. Click on the following link to see our year in video: http://www.vancouvergolftour.com/2008/2008VideoFiles/index.htm. We will continue to upload the remaining couple of tournament videos we are working on as soon as we can and upload these highlights as well. Thanks for taking the time to watch our best players in action!
CANADIANS REACH 2ND STAGE IN RECORD NUMBERS
Canadians at 2008 PGA Tour Q-School A record twenty-eight Canadians will tee-it-up at 2nd Stage of PGA Tour Q-School, including Vancouver Golf Tour OOM Winner Bryn Parry. Parry is scheduled to play Nov.19-2nd in Lantana, Texas – a place he feels very familiar with having successfully qualifying through this site in 2006.
Parry will be joined by a strong cast of 28 Canadians at 2nd stage which starts this week at four different sites. Fellow BC Professionals Chris Baryla of Vernon and Jim Rutledge are both competing at Oak Valley Golf Club in Beaumont, California from Nov.12-15th. The top 20 players and ties from each site out of approximately 80 players will qualify to tee-it-up at Q-School Finals the week of Dec.3-8th at PGA West Golf Course in Palm Springs, California.Tune-into all the Canadians starting this week on the PGA Tour’s Q-school homepage: http://www.pgatour.com/qschool/index.html.
VGT would like to extend all Canadians down at 2nd Stage the best of luck in their ‘Quest for the Card’.
Best regards,
Fraser Mulholland, Commissioner Vancouver Golf Tour
Our 2009 membership sign-up will be available on the website very soon! Early bird membership pricing will be available until the end of 2008, after which time our regular 2009 membership rates will apply. We are finalizing the last few details of our event schedule for next year and should have all tournament sites and dates confirmed by early December.
2008 VGT TOURNAMENT VIDEOS
We have compiled a collection of our video footage throughout the year and archived as much as we can in our Video archives. Click on the following link to see our year in video: http://www.vancouvergolftour.com/2008/2008VideoFiles/index.htm. We will continue to upload the remaining couple of tournament videos we are working on as soon as we can and upload these highlights as well. Thanks for taking the time to watch our best players in action!
CANADIANS REACH 2ND STAGE IN RECORD NUMBERS
Canadians at 2008 PGA Tour Q-School A record twenty-eight Canadians will tee-it-up at 2nd Stage of PGA Tour Q-School, including Vancouver Golf Tour OOM Winner Bryn Parry. Parry is scheduled to play Nov.19-2nd in Lantana, Texas – a place he feels very familiar with having successfully qualifying through this site in 2006.
Parry will be joined by a strong cast of 28 Canadians at 2nd stage which starts this week at four different sites. Fellow BC Professionals Chris Baryla of Vernon and Jim Rutledge are both competing at Oak Valley Golf Club in Beaumont, California from Nov.12-15th. The top 20 players and ties from each site out of approximately 80 players will qualify to tee-it-up at Q-School Finals the week of Dec.3-8th at PGA West Golf Course in Palm Springs, California.Tune-into all the Canadians starting this week on the PGA Tour’s Q-school homepage: http://www.pgatour.com/qschool/index.html.
VGT would like to extend all Canadians down at 2nd Stage the best of luck in their ‘Quest for the Card’.
Best regards,
Fraser Mulholland, Commissioner Vancouver Golf Tour
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Crowd of Canucks try to get PGA card
THE CANADIAN PRESS
David Hearn has a hunch. It's been a couple of years since he had any success at the PGA Tour's qualifying school but the 29-year-old feels like that's about to change. Hearn is one of more than a dozen professional Canadian golfers who will tee it up in the second stage of Q-school this week. "I'm really looking forward to it and ready for it this year," Hearn said Tuesday. "I've got a good feeling about getting through. "That in itself should be considered a victory. After all, there's nothing quite like it in sports.
Nearly a thousand golfers sign up for Q-school each year and compete in a series of pressure-packed tournaments with the hope of claiming one of 25 spots on the PGA Tour for the next season. "It's a giant job interview," said Hearn. Four of the second stage tournaments start Wednesday while another two will be played next week. Roughly 20 golfers from each of the six venues will advance to the final stage of qualifying next month in California, where the 25 PGA Tour cards will be handed out. It's best not to do math because the odds are pretty long.
Fortunately for Hearn, he's survived it before. The native of Brantford, Ont., made it all the way through in 2004 and has good vibes heading into his second stage qualifier at Deerwood Golf Club near Houston. The past experience certainly helps. "You get more accustomed to your expectations going in and the way you should play at Q-school," said Hearn. "I think when you're younger you try to play a little bit differently when you get to Q-school as opposed to just playing your own game. "I think you learn from that year after year." Hearn has entered the PGA Tour's qualifying school seven or eight times and admits that he "hasn't had the best success. "That throw-away comment illustrates what makes the experience so difficult. The fact that Hearn has ever made it through Q-school makes him exponentially more successful than average, but he still feels a little beaten down. Just like everyone else. This year could be different."I'm here to play well," said Hearn. "I want to compete and try to win this tournament. "I'm planning on getting to the final stage. And when I get there, I have no doubts that I'll get through. "Those kind of positive thoughts are often tough to find at these events. One other golfer declined an interview, citing stress - a testament to just how difficult Q-school can be on players.Hearn chooses to embrace the challenge and focus on the positive outcome that can come from it. "I think it's pretty unique from any sport," said Hearn. "The NHL, you can get drafted in the first round but that doesn't necessarily mean you're going to be in the NHL. "But this tournament, if you finish in the top-25 of final stage you are guaranteed a spot on the PGA Tour next season."
One benefit he enjoys over many others is that he still has status on the minor league Nationwide Tour. That gives him somewhere to play if he doesn't qualify for the PGA Tour in the coming weeks.
Besides Hearn, there are several players of interest to follow at Q-school. Jon Mills is back after recently completing his second season on the PGA Tour, where he didn't earn enough money to retain his card. The 30-year-old from Oshawa, Ont., is at the Southern Hills Plantation Club in Florida. He's looking to graduate from Q-school for the first time. Former PGA Tour winner Ian Leggatt is competing in Pine Mountain, Ga., alongside a trio of young Canadian pros - Mark Leon, James Love and three-time Canadian Amateur champion Richard Scott. Graham DeLaet and Dustin Risdon each won events on the Canadian Tour over the summer and are entered at the same venue in Texas as Hearn.
David Hearn has a hunch. It's been a couple of years since he had any success at the PGA Tour's qualifying school but the 29-year-old feels like that's about to change. Hearn is one of more than a dozen professional Canadian golfers who will tee it up in the second stage of Q-school this week. "I'm really looking forward to it and ready for it this year," Hearn said Tuesday. "I've got a good feeling about getting through. "That in itself should be considered a victory. After all, there's nothing quite like it in sports.
Nearly a thousand golfers sign up for Q-school each year and compete in a series of pressure-packed tournaments with the hope of claiming one of 25 spots on the PGA Tour for the next season. "It's a giant job interview," said Hearn. Four of the second stage tournaments start Wednesday while another two will be played next week. Roughly 20 golfers from each of the six venues will advance to the final stage of qualifying next month in California, where the 25 PGA Tour cards will be handed out. It's best not to do math because the odds are pretty long.
Fortunately for Hearn, he's survived it before. The native of Brantford, Ont., made it all the way through in 2004 and has good vibes heading into his second stage qualifier at Deerwood Golf Club near Houston. The past experience certainly helps. "You get more accustomed to your expectations going in and the way you should play at Q-school," said Hearn. "I think when you're younger you try to play a little bit differently when you get to Q-school as opposed to just playing your own game. "I think you learn from that year after year." Hearn has entered the PGA Tour's qualifying school seven or eight times and admits that he "hasn't had the best success. "That throw-away comment illustrates what makes the experience so difficult. The fact that Hearn has ever made it through Q-school makes him exponentially more successful than average, but he still feels a little beaten down. Just like everyone else. This year could be different."I'm here to play well," said Hearn. "I want to compete and try to win this tournament. "I'm planning on getting to the final stage. And when I get there, I have no doubts that I'll get through. "Those kind of positive thoughts are often tough to find at these events. One other golfer declined an interview, citing stress - a testament to just how difficult Q-school can be on players.Hearn chooses to embrace the challenge and focus on the positive outcome that can come from it. "I think it's pretty unique from any sport," said Hearn. "The NHL, you can get drafted in the first round but that doesn't necessarily mean you're going to be in the NHL. "But this tournament, if you finish in the top-25 of final stage you are guaranteed a spot on the PGA Tour next season."
One benefit he enjoys over many others is that he still has status on the minor league Nationwide Tour. That gives him somewhere to play if he doesn't qualify for the PGA Tour in the coming weeks.
Besides Hearn, there are several players of interest to follow at Q-school. Jon Mills is back after recently completing his second season on the PGA Tour, where he didn't earn enough money to retain his card. The 30-year-old from Oshawa, Ont., is at the Southern Hills Plantation Club in Florida. He's looking to graduate from Q-school for the first time. Former PGA Tour winner Ian Leggatt is competing in Pine Mountain, Ga., alongside a trio of young Canadian pros - Mark Leon, James Love and three-time Canadian Amateur champion Richard Scott. Graham DeLaet and Dustin Risdon each won events on the Canadian Tour over the summer and are entered at the same venue in Texas as Hearn.
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