Chris Kirk had a stellar collegiate career at the University of Georgia, assisting the Bulldogs in winning the 2005 NCAA Division 1 Men’s Golf Championship and was a member of the victorious 2007 US Walker Cup team. Kirk then began his professional career on the Nationwide Tour in 2008 and experienced a beak out season in 2010, securing two wins and eight top 10 finishes. As a result, Kirk concluded the season 2nd on the 2010 Nationwide Tour money list, thereby securing his PGA Tour card for 2011.
Kirk then kicked off his rookie campaign with a T7 finish at the 2011 Bob Hope Classic, ironically the same tournament that his fellow Nationwide graduate, Jhonattan Vegas won for his 1st career PGA Tour title. Kirk then experienced a decline in his game, missing the cut in 4 out of the next 7 tournaments, before arriving at the 2011 Shell Houston Open.
Needing to win the Shell Houston Open to secure the 100th and final spot in the 2011 Masters; Kirk held the 2nd round lead before finishing T2 behind an in form Phil Mickelson. Mickelson, who shot a blistering 3rd round 63 and 4th round 65, effectively closed the door on the rookie for the final Masters invite.
Even though Kirk narrowly missed his mark, it wasn’t for a lack of effort. Playing in the 2nd to last group alongside a seasoned Aaron Baddeley; Kirk was unwavering in the final round of the Shell Houston Open, converting 4 birdies on the back nine on Sunday to make a strong push for his 1st PGA Tour title.
If there is any consolation, these are the kind of experiences that build character and maturity in a golfer; therefore be on the look out for Chris Kirk for the remainder of the 2011 PGA Tour season.
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Written by High Fade
I am a PGA and European Tour golf enthusiast with a passion for writing. My goal is to provide you with insightful and informative player profiles and tournament content.
