Fort Smith Nationwide Qualifier
I’m in. For the second time in three attempts this season, I made it through the Monday qualifier. This time I shot 65 (6 under) to finish in 3rd place and avoid the playoff at 66.
We played Eagle Crest Golf Club in Alma, AR. Heading into the back nine, I was 1 under par and figured I needed about 5 or 6 to have a shot. I knew that the 3 par fives on the back could be reached with irons after a good drive. There were a few opportunities on the other holes. So, I knew that I could get the 5 or 6 under with some good shots.
I got hot on the 12th with a birdie on the par 5 and followed that up with a birdie on the par 3 13th…both with putts of about 10 feet. I made a two-putt birdie on the par 5 16th and then made a slick downhill birdie from 8 feet on the 17th. After a good drive on 18 that ended up just slightly behind a tree, I laid up with 7 iron to 40 yards short. From there, I got up and down for another birdie to get to 6 under. Then, it was a matter of waiting to make sure I got in.
It’s looking like a bunch of rain tomorrow and Wednesday, so I’m going to try to get in my practice round early tomorrow.