Things get ugly for Charlie woods in his first………
In the spotlight of his first PGA Tour pre-qualifier, Charlie Woods faced more than just the challenge of the course. As the 15-year-old teed it up at Lost Lake Golf Club in Hobe Sound, Florida, a circus of aggressive autograph seekers and overly enthusiastic fans unfolded around him.
Despite the presence of some 50 spectators, reporters, and photographers, including Tiger Woods’ ex-wife Elin Nordegren, Charlie’s performance on the course didn’t match the frenzy off it. Shooting a 16-over 86, he missed advancing by a considerable margin, with a particularly tough hole on the seventh.
However, the real drama lay in the behavior of the crowd. Disobeying marshals’ instructions, fans crowded the fairways of the rope-less course, with some even diving into bushes in pursuit of errant shots. One fan’s request for an autograph from Charlie met with a firm refusal from tournament officials, adding to the chaos.
Despite the distractions, Charlie maintained his composure, as noted by fellow competitor Olin Browne Jr., who praised the teenager’s golf game and conduct on the course. Despite not having his best day, Charlie managed to hit some impressive shots, showcasing his talent despite the challenging circumstances.
As the pre-qualifier concluded, 31 players secured a spot in the Monday qualifier, with notable names like Austin Lemieux and Julius Boros making the cut. Despite the chaos surrounding Charlie Woods’ debut, the event highlighted not only his potential as a golfer but also the unique challenges young talents face in the world of professional sports.