In the 2005 US Public Links Qualifier at Jester Park GC in Des Moines, IA, 30 people played for 1 qualifying spot. I was paired with a hot shot high schooler from Des Moines for the 36 holes. I went out and did not break 150; I think I shot something like 154 or so. The 17-year-old junior started off slow - I think he shot 74 - but caught fire at the end and finished with a 68 for his second round. Unfortunately, it was 2 strokes too many, and he was "rewarded" with being the second alternate from the qualifier. Needless to say, he didn't make it to nationals.
http://www.usga.org/news/qualifying/2005/qualifying_apl.html
Since then, that high schooler went to Michigan State and now is in the field this week at the Masters. Jack Newman won the 2008 US Public Links Championship and is playing.
It's easy to root for Tiger, Phil, Paddy, or even Freddie, but if you spent 36 holes with someone in the past - and see them now on the national stage, well, you've got to pull for them.
We wholeheartedly wish Jack Newman the best of luck this week and hope that he shocks the world on Sunday. Hmmm...it's strange....there are no odds listed for him on VIP. I wonder why?
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