US TOUR:BUD CAULEY was playing to try to avoid a trip to qualifying school when he competed in the Frys.com tournament last week. He turned professional in June, upon completing his junior year at Alabama, and placed third in California.
The 21-year-old, playing on a sponsor’s exemption, earned $340,000 (€246,000). With the cheque – the sixth he has cashed in seven USPGA Tour starts – he vaulted into the top 125 on the money list.
If he stays in the top 125, he will gain his tour playing privileges for 2012 without having to advance through qualifying school. The last golfers to play their way onto the tour in such a fashion were Ryan Moore in 2005 and Tiger Woods in 1996.
So callow is Cauley the three-time major winner Ernie Els, who played alongside him Saturday, asked when he planned to turn pro. Cauley confirmed the story and added with a grin, “I think by the back nine, he knew I was a professional.”
With his top-10 finish, Cauley secured a spot in this week’s field for the McGladrey Classic in Sea Island, Georgia. Before last weekend his best finish had been 13th at the Canadian Open back in July.
“I think definitely playing out here has sharpened my learning curve,” Cauley said.
“I feel like I’m improving by playing out there, and that’s what I hoped would happen by leaving school a year early. I felt my game was ready to come out here, and the best thing for my game would be to play against the best competition.”
McGladrey Classic
Course:Sea Side Course, Sea Island, Georgia
Prize money: €2.9m, €520,000 to the winner
Length:7,055 yards. Par: 71. Field: 132
The layout: Designed by Tom Fazio, the exposed location means the sea breeze is a significant factor. With undulating fairways and greens to boot, scrambling is key.
Defending champion:Heath Slocum
Type of player suited to challenge: Many Tour players live in the area, so local knowledge could be a factor.
Key attribute: Accuracy
Weather forecast: Clear conditions
On TV: Sky Sports, 7pm-10pm
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