Final round 72 edges SJ Thomas by a stroke
BIRMINGHAM – Ryley Heath said he felt like he needed a birdie on the 18th hole Saturday afternoon to at least get into a playoff at the 110th Alabama State Amateur Championship.
The way it turned out, Heath’s birdie did a little more than that – it proved to be the tournament winner. Heath shot 1-over 72 in Saturday’s final round to erase a two-shot deficit to edge SJ Thomas by one shot.
Heath finished with a winning score of 277, including a tournament-best 65 in the third round. Thomas closed with a 75 to finish at 278.
Heath shot 71-69-65-72 over 72 holes on the Country Club of Birmingham’s West Course.
“I couldn’t have thought of a better place to get this win at,” said Heath, who plays collegiately at Jacksonville State. “It was a struggle from the get-go. This is by far the hardest course I have played recently. I was just trying to put myself in playoff mode – that was the most challenging part.”
Heath’s win Alabama State Amateur Championship win secured his spot in the upcoming U.S. Amateur Championship at Merion Golf Club in Ardmore, Pa., August 10-16.
Final round saw only 3 players break par
homas, of Birmingham, appeared headed for the title with three strong rounds to open the tournament. He shot 68-67-68 to reach 10-under par with 18 holes to play before falling back with a closing 75. Only three players broke par and three players matched par in the final round.
“I knew that if I kept making pars and giving myself good looks, I would have a chance on the back nine during the final round,” Heath said.
Heath made only two birdies in the final round – including No 18. But it was his third birdie on the closing hole in four rounds. He and Thomas came to the 18th hole tied.
“I knew I would have to make a birdie (for at least a playoff), so I just tried to play as aggressive as possible with little fear as possible. Thankfully, I was able to make a birdie and it just so happened to be just enough.”
It’s such an honor to win this tournament,” Heath said. “My name next to so many great names, I can’t think of anything better. It was an amazing week.”
Jackson Skinner of Birmingham, posted 4-under 280 to finish third. Skinner shot 74 in the final round.
Fatured image: Alabama Golf Association
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