It’s getting on for two-and-a-half years since my last win, so as you can imagine, it’s a fantastic feeling winning my second Hoag Classic title at the weekend.
As I was saying only a few weeks ago, I’ve been competing well this season on the Champions Tour and playing some good golf, but just hadn’t been able to put it over the finish line. I felt like we just needed to find some momentum and get on a bit of a roll. Basically make some putts! Well, the pieces finally clicked into place at the weekend in Newport Beach. Shooting 12-under par for my last 28 holes, including a bogey-free final round in tricky conditions, was very satisfying.
As soon as we saw the weather report on Sunday morning, it looked like we could be in for some tough scoring conditions out there. I felt that if I could get off to a decent start and get myself established and in amongst the leaders, then we’d be in with a chance. And that’s exactly how it unfolded. I’d go as far to say that I almost played a perfect round, apart from the miss on 15. But look…it was a strong finish, nonetheless. The last five, six holes were tougher than we normally get it here, so I was very happy to birdie two of the last three to set a good target in the clubhouse.
As I said, winning is obviously a fantastic feeling. This is what we play for, so I’m going to enjoy this one and then do everything we can to try to carry this momentum into the coming weeks and months. You know, I’m feeling comfortable with my game, the confidence is coming back, so I’m excited about the rest of the season.
Finally, just a quick word to say thank you for the continued support and particularly the numerous kind messages that you’ve sent me via social media this past 24 hours. It really means a lot. Thank you.
I’ll write again soon.
That winning feeling! Holing the decisive birdie putt on the 18th green on Sunday.
