After enduring a seven-year winless streak, a determined charge by half-dozen young golfers, and a pair of bogeys that dropped him out of the lead, Jerry Kelly’s one shot victory in the Zurich Classic on Sunday was plenty of reason to celebrate. It was the 42-year-old Wisconsin player’s first PGA TOUR title since he won two in 2002 — exactly 200 starts ago.
“It’s been a long time,” said Kelly, who was showered with Mardi Gras beads by fans and presented with a large tray of char-broiled oysters by his favorite New Orleans restaurant. “I sometimes doubted if it was ever going to happen again.”
Kelly rallied with two birdies on the back nine to claim 500 FedExCup points and the $1.1 million payday on Sunday. Kelly offset bogeys on the 8th and 10th with birdies on the 5th, 11th and 14th for a 1-under 71 in the final round. He finished with a 274, one stroke ahead Charles Howell III, Rory Sabbatini and Charlie Wii. It was the 42-year-old Wisconsin player’s first PGA TOUR title since he won two in 2002 — exactly 200 starts ago.
Unfortunately, my tip John Merrick faded badly on the last day to end up well outside the places. He however continues to impress me and he looks to be a winner in waiting.
