Dylan Healey
SCOTTSDALE, Arizona (June 11, 2015) -- Scoring on day two of the centennial edition of the Southwestern Amateur Championship proved to be harder than the first day for the group that played The Desert Mountain Club's Cochise Course. Just ask the first round leader, who had a 16-stroke difference. (But in his defense, it's tough to follow a 64 and he's under the cut line.)
“The Geronimo Course is at least a stroke harder,” leader Dylan Healey of Franklin, Tenn., told AmateurGolf.com after his second round. “Front nine today was okay, but the wind kicked up on number 10 and made things a bit more difficult.”
After firing a 66 on the 6,889-yard, par-70 Cochise course yesterday, he was one stroke behind then-leader Jordan Gumberg. Today, the 21 year-old Healey carded a 1-under 69 on the longer Geronimo course (7,272 yard, par-70), leaving him two strokes ahead of two players who are tied for second.
“I knew if I could keep it in play and just stay focused I would be okay,” Healey said.I played in the US Open sectionals on Monday and flew directly here afterwards. I only got one practice round in at Geronimo, but all the competitive rounds I’ve been playing lately have paid off.”
After starting on No. 10, Healey cruised through the first nine holes with eight pars and a birdie on no. 14, a 357-yard par-4. After making the turn, Healey faced the 582-yard par-5 1st hole – and walked away with an eagle.
“It’s visually intimidating at first, but I have great confidence in my game. I know that I’ll play well… and hopefully win,” said Healey.
Tied for second at 3-under and two shots back are Kelby Scharmann of Trabuco Canyon, CA and Hayden Wood of Edmond, OK. Yesterday’s leader Gumberg posted a 10-over 80 after shooting a 64 at Cochise.
After todays cut where the 60 lowest scores made it (cut was 145), the final two rounds are being played at Desert Mountain Club’s Geronimo course, which suits Healey just fine.
“I like that the last two days are at Geronimo because I really like the course.”
ABOUT THE
Southwestern Amateur
72-hole stroke play championship for national-level
amateurs with a handicap index of
1.4 or better. After 36 holes, the field will be
cut to the low 36 and ties. The
SWGA Selection Committee will select players
to
compete based upon
exemptions, playing resume and rankings.
The SWGA reserves the right to invite
amateurs of national and international
reputation, as well as other amateurs "of
note", to enter into the tournament.
Applicants are urged to submit their entries
with golf resumes of accomplishment in
major tournaments and other competitive
record
information.
View Complete Tournament Information