LOS ANGELES – Tom Gardner had a good day in the third round of the 123 rd U.S. Open.
Gardner, director of golf at Los Angeles Country Club, was the marker for the first pairing with Ryan Fox on Saturday morning.
Gardner commented, “It is pretty special to be able to do this before your members on the course where you work.” If you were here on the first tee this morning, there was quite a roar. “Got the juices flowing.”
Gardner told the USGA that Jeff Hall had approached him earlier in the week to tell him that if an odd number made the 36-hole cut, they could use Gardner’s services as a mark.
Gardner stated, “It was an honor to have this opportunity.”
Rory Sweeney offered immediately to be his caddie.
Gardner, who was behind the 18 th green on Friday morning, was checking his phone for the score. He figured Paul Barjon would be the only golfer to reach the even-numbered cut. To make the cut, he had to finish all three last holes at even par. Gardner made par on 16, but after he holed a 61 foot birdie at 17, Gardner thought his dream of playing at his club at the weekend for a major had ended. He was on his way to meet up with his wife at a cocktail event when he left 18.
This guy birdied 17.’ He goes, “No, he doubled 18.'” He says, “This guy birdied 17.” He replies, “No, he doubled 18.”
Gardner was fortunate to have Barjon’s poor finish, which caused him to miss the cut. He was suddenly inundated with emails and texts, and the club sent an email out to its members, making him feel welcome.
Sweeney said, “They shouted our names. It’s something you’ll never forget.” Sweeney kept his promise and served as Gardner’s caddie. It was a special experience to be between the ropes during a weekend of a major. It’s a special place, especially since it is our home. It’s our membership and club. “To share it with my best friend is really something special.”
Gardner’s highlight was a long putt near the LACC tent at the 10th hole.
Sweeney stated that “everyone went nuts and was screaming and shouting.” It was fantastic.
Gardner said, “What an amazing day.” “I hope to do it again tomorrow.”
