A clinical performance from The Australian Golf Club’s Jeffrey Guan overnight has seen the Sydneysider book his spot in next month’s US Amateur Championship at the famous Cherry Hills Country Club in Ohio.
The teenager put on a masterclass in the 36-hole qualifying, carding rounds of 65 and 68, to finish at nine-under 133 (par 71) at the Forsgate Country Club in New Jersey. He took medalist honours by two shots to book his place in the 123rd running of the revered championship.
Guan’s opening round six-under 65 included an impressive seven birdies and just one bogey coming at the 239 yard par-three 17th, establishing him as the player to beat.
“I knew the course wasn’t going to be easy but it could be said vice versa dependent on how each player’s course management is.
“I sort of just told myself to keep attacking flags when possible and try to make as many birdies as I can, whether I make it through or not.”
Guan admitted to being quietly confident after his morning’s effort, and said checking the scores after the opening round only added to his self belief.
“After the first round, I did have a look at all the scores and a lot of people had the same amount of birdies as me, but where I got the advantage was making only one bogey.”
While his afternoon round of three-under 68 was a little more subdued affair than his morning masterclass, it was just as clinical; four birdies and just one bogey blemishing an otherwise impressive round.
“My Game was great. I was one of the longest in the field as well as straightest, which definitely helped to shoot low scores,” a clearly delighted Guan said.
Just last month, Guan got to experience one of the highlights of his young career to date, spending time with the Reigning Open Champion, Cameron Smith, at his Florida home as he prepared for the US Open Championship.
Guan’s experience that week, witnessing first-hand how one of the world’s best golfers went about his preparation for a Major, is certainly paid dividends for the talented two-time NSW and Australian Junior Champion.
“Cam taught me how to hit more accurate flop shots. I did have to hit two today, and for a bonus they both were up and downs!
“The way he (Smith) strikes the ball is magnificent, especially off the tee and I have learnt to try utilise what he’s been doing and adding it to my own game, so, yes it had a major affect on my new perspective of the game and learning experience,” Guan added.
Next up for the 18-year-old is the Trans-Mississippi Amateur Championship beginning this Tuesday in Dallas, Texas.
