As the dust settled at Cherry Hill Club during the U.S. Open Final Qualifying, the spotlight shone on Michigan State rising senior Ashton McCulloch. Despite being the Canadian amateur champion, McCulloch was not a PGA Tour member like the top 17 finishers. His stellar performance secured one of the seven spots for the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2.
Brotherly Support and a Major Breakthrough
Prior to his morning round, McCulloch received a heartwarming call from his brother, offering words of encouragement and pledging to caddie for him during the Open week. McCulloch’s exceptional gameplay led to a 36-hole total of 8-under 134, marking his debut at a major championship. Despite a recent setback at the Canadian Open, where he struggled with putting, McCulloch remains determined to pursue his passion for playing on the PGA Tour.
A Record-Breaking Day at Cherry Hill Club
Cherry Hill Club, boasting a century-old Walter Travis course, witnessed remarkable performances during the qualifying event. Golfers like Mark Hubbard narrowly missed setting a new course record, with four players carding sensational 63s. Hubbard’s exceptional putting with a TaylorMade Spider putter, a recent addition to his arsenal, propelled him to clinch medalist honors and a coveted spot at the U.S. Open.
Overcoming Adversity and Achieving Success
Amidst the fierce competition, players like Rico Hoey displayed resilience and determination. Despite recent struggles on the PGA Tour, Hoey’s unwavering spirit propelled him to secure a spot at Pinehurst with an impressive performance. Similarly, Davis Thompson’s stellar play and Greyson Sigg’s consistent performance under pressure earned them tickets to the prestigious major championship.
Memorable Moments and Future Prospects
As these talented golfers prepare to compete at Pinehurst, memories of past achievements and dreams of future success fuel their aspirations. For Aaron Rai, returning to a familiar setting evokes nostalgia and excitement as he gears up for the challenge ahead. With the lineup set and alternates in place, the stage is set for a thrilling showdown at the U.S. Open.
By: Adam Schupak
Title: Canadian Amateur Champion Shines at U.S. Open Qualifying Among PGA Tour Pros
Sourced From: golfweek.usatoday.com/2024/06/03/u-s-open-qualifying-canadian-amateur-champ-ashton-mcculloch/
Published Date: Tue, 04 Jun 2024 01:03:45 +0000
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