Tommy Kuhl experienced a series of emotions in a matter of hours on Monday.
He was one of the top college golfers this year, and continued his play at Illini Country Club, in Springfield, Illinois at a U.S. Open qualifier local. He shot a course record 62 on aerated Greens to win the medal and advance to final qualification.
He thought that when his putt fell.
Ryan French from Monday Q Info reported that Kuhl returned to the course after his round and watched some of his Illini teammates complete their rounds. Jackson Buchanan mentioned that it was difficult to putt on aerated greens. Kuhl was struck by a thought.
Kuhl said in French that he felt “sick to the stomach.” “I knew that I would not be able sleep if I did not tell the official.”
Kuhl repaired aeration markings multiple times throughout his round. This is not allowed. If a local rule had been in place on Monday, Kuhl would have been fine.
“I should have known better.” “It’s all about me.” “I should have known that rule.”
Kuhl went to a rules official and explained what had happened. He was told he’d been disqualified shortly after.
Other players who participated in the local qualifier admitted to tampering with aeration markings, but none of them advanced to the next round.
Kuhl lost the chance to compete in the U.S. Open. Kuhl should be commended, however, for being honest.
Next week, Kuhl and Illinois will play in NCAA regionals, as the top seeded team at the East Lansing Regional.
