California Golf Instructor Realizes Dream of Playing on the PGA TOUR

When kids are growing up, they typically dream of being an astronaut or a firefighter but for Tom Morton, he grew up wanting to play on the PGA TOUR.  And now he will get the opportunity to do so.

The 42-year old is one of the best instructors and club fitters in the Sacramento area but recently showed that he can play just as well as he teaches.  Morton was able to qualify for the Barracuda Championship in August by winning six amateur matches over three days that were played on four different courses.  The craziest part is that he ended up beating some of the best golfers in the state of California.

In his final match, Morton faced off against the tournament’s no. 1 seed, David Soloman at Pebble Beach.  Most people in that situation would be so nervous that they’d have to bring along a change of pants but Morton remained calm, cool and collected.  Even after some bad shots going down the back nine, Morton was able to take the lead on the 17th hole and win the opportunity to play in an actual Tour event.

Tom Morton Wins the NCPGA Match Play Championship and Qualifies for an Upcoming PGA… https://t.co/cbibF87I26 pic.twitter.com/6FsvDGLXQp

— Haggin Oaks Golf Com (@HagginOaks) May 4, 2017

For Morton, this meteoric rise is remarkable, especially for someone who almost never plays in organized tournaments.  Prior to entering the NCPGA Match Play Championship, Morton had only played in four organized tournaments in 2017.  Further, he didn’t play in any tournaments last year.  Saying he was a little bit rusty may be an understatement.

Despite the rust though, Morton was able to make the most out of his short but precise game and earn a moment he will never forget.  “I was just talking to my dad about having never qualified for a USGA event was one of the biggest disappointments in my career,” Morton said.

“I missed by one stroke a number of times.  I think this will right that feeling.”

With the success of longtime players like Morton, it seems like almost anyone could step up and make a run to play on the Tour.  So grab your clubs, a beer and start playing a few more rounds because you could be the next Tom Morton.

Cover Photo and H/T – hagginoaks.com