Crown Colony Golf Club Hosts Thrilling U.S. Open Qualifier

News Summary

The Golf Club at Crown Colony was alive with competition as Brandon Hoelzer and David Hearn tied for first in the U.S. Open local qualifier, each shooting 5-under par. Both players advanced to the final qualifying round. A dramatic playoff determined additional participants. Furthermore, young golfers Sahana Chokshi and Sofia Rivera earned spots in the U.S. Women’s Four-Ball Championship, showcasing the region’s emerging talent. Plus, local talents continue to dominate in various competitions, underscoring the golf scene in Jacksonville.

Crown Colony Golf Club Sees Exciting Action at U.S. Open Local Qualifier

In a thrilling day of golf on May 8, Brandon Hoelzer and David Hearn stole the spotlight at the Golf Club at Crown Colony. Both players finished the U.S. Open local qualifier in a tie for first place, each impressively shooting a score of 5-under par 67.

A Strong Performance from Hoelzer

Brandon Hoelzer started off his round with what he described as a “cozy” front nine. His game shifted into high gear with a crucial eagle on the 18th hole that highlighted his round. The Ohio native, who now practices out of Jacksonville, also managed to record four birdies throughout the day. Despite facing a minor setback on the ninth hole, where he pulled his drive wide to the right and ended up with a bogey, Hoelzer remained optimistic about the course and its setup.

Hearn’s Solid Show

Not too far behind in the competitive field was Canada’s David Hearn, who matched Hoelzer’s terrific score of 5-under par. Hearn’s round included a spectacular eagle and three additional birdies, proving that he also had the skills to conquer Crown Colony’s challenges. With both players advancing to the final qualifying round for the 125th U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club from June 12-15, golf fans are in for an exciting event to watch!

High Stakes: Playoff Drama Unfolds

Following Hoelzer and Hearn at Crown Colony, a thrilling playoff ensued for the remaining spots. Antoine Leach, Kristian Caparros, Nick Latimer, and Timmy Wideman all concluded their rounds at 3-under par, sending them into a sudden-death playoff. The tension was palpable as they returned to replay the 18th hole. Leach and Caparros set the pace early by both sinking birdie putts, ensuring their spots in the upcoming qualifying round. Meanwhile, Latimer and Wideman entered a battle of their own to secure the final position. Ultimately, it was Latimer who would make the decisive putt, clinching his place while making Wideman the first alternate.

Rising Young Stars Headed for Championship

In exciting news beyond the local qualifier, two young golfers, Sahana Chokshi and Sofia Rivera, have been making waves. Representing the First Coast, they earned a spot in the U.S. Women’s Four-Ball Championship after posting an impressive score of 66 during their qualifier. Both athletes have proven themselves on the golf course, with Chokshi being a proud member of the Times-Union All-First Coast golf team and Rivera helping her high school team clinch a state championship.

More Local Golfing Achievements

On a larger stage, Cody Blick, a Jacksonville resident and Korn Ferry Tour member, showcased his talents by winning his own U.S. Open local qualifier with an impressive 7-under par 65. Below him was John Augenstein, who finished right on his heels with a score of 65 at the Pensacola Country Club qualifier. Additionally, local junior golfers are already making headlines with Lily Wachter’s victorious performance at the Florida Junior Golf Tour’s Cypress Head Open, finishing with a total of 144.

Upcoming Events & Further Highlights

Looking ahead, the U.S. Kids Summer Tour is set to kick off on June 7-8 across various local courses, offering more opportunities for young golfers to shine. Meanwhile, in other noteworthy news, Brett Schell has received a sponsor exemption for the Korn Ferry Tour’s Visit Knoxville Open from May 21-25, and Therese Quinn has turned heads by finishing seventh in the Florida State Golf Association Women’s Mid-Amateur.

Flagler College Women’s Golf Team Shines

And let’s not forget to mention the Flagler College women’s golf team, which is holding strong at a proud fourth place in the national rankings for NCAA Division II. With such talent and enthusiasm bubbling in the region, it’s safe to say that the First Coast is certainly a hotbed for golf!

As the summer rolls on, golf fans can look forward to even more local talent taking the stage and showcasing their skills in the upcoming events!

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Additional Resources

• News Press: Crown Colony Golf Club U.S. Open Qualifier
• U.S. Open: 2025 Qualifying Information
• Jacksonville.com: Young Golf Stars Chokshi and Rivera
• Wikipedia: U.S. Open (Golf)
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf