In my last post, I discussed the five ways to become a member of the PGA Tour. Today, I identify how non-members like me can play in individual PGA Tour events.
Open Qualifying. For most open tournaments, an open qualifying competition of 18-holes is conducted on the Monday of the tournament week. The qualifier, which is usually proceeded by an 18-hole pre-qualifier, is open to all professionals and amateurs with a USGA handicap of 2 or less. Normally, the four low scores in the qualifier advance to the actual tournament.
Sponsor and Foreign Exemptions. Each tournament on the PGA Tour is allotted a maximum of eight sponsor exemptions which are distributed by individual tournament directors. These slots in the field are normally given to popular veteran players and new, young players who are not exempt. In addition, Tim Finchem, the Commissioner of the PGA Tour, is permitted to designate two international players for foreign exemptions into individual PGA Tour tournaments.
Stay tuned. As I continue my effort to play inside the ropes, I will talk much more about open qualifiers as well as sponsor exemptions.
Until next time, enjoy golf America!
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi, I was wondering how do I get into a pre-qualifier?
Hey Tyler: You can contact the PGA Tour at http://www.PGATour.com for information about pre-qualifiers for open events… Good luck! Phil
Do most of the events have a Monday Quailifying and what is the cost.
I am a 4 handicap and heading toward becomming 2. I can shot under par on my home course
30 % of the time.
How do I find out where to go and qualify ? I would like to qualify for the Deutsche Bank Championship TPC Norton , Boston event in 2011.
Thanks for your info and response.
J-Dubai
Hi J-Dubai: You can contact the PGA Tour at http://www.PGATour.com for information about pre-qualifiers for open events… Good luck! Phil