After just missing out on qualifying for last year’s U.S. Open, Radford University Alum Callum Tarrenredeemed himself in a major way and qualified for the 2019 U.S. Open on Monday.
Tarren unfortunately missed out 12 months ago by a single stroke, three-putting the last hole, and ended up watching the action at Shinnecock from a hotel room in China while he was shining on the China Tour.
This year, Tarren came out guns blazing at Streamsong Black Golf Course, opening with a course-record 64 to take the early lead and then backed it up with a 68 to top the field at 14-under 132. He opened both rounds with an eagle on the first hole, knocking in putts from 7 feet and 10 feet, respectively. Both rounds also included a double bogey. He was 11 under through 15 holes in his first 18.
“I’m getting goosebumps now you even saying that,” said Tarren when asked for his thoughts on playing Pebble Beach. “Just teeing it up with the best in the world on one of the most iconic courses in the world, I’m sure it’s going to be incredible.”
To qualify for the U.S. Open, players must compete in a local qualifier tournament that consists of one round (18 holes) and finish high enough to advance to a sectional qualifier. Following the local qualifying round players can compete in one of 12 sectionals across the globe. Golfers that finish with a high enough score qualify for the U.S. Open, one of four major golf championships.
The Darlington, England product is one of 156 players that will compete in the 2019 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach Golf Links in Pebble Beach, Calif. The major will begin on Thursday, June 13 and can be seen on Fox and FS1 (Fox Sports 1).
–RU Athletics
