Fishburn Faces Challenges in First Major Golf Championship

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina — Patrick Fishburn, a former BYU golfer, has his work cut out for him in his first major golf championship at the PGA Championship held at Quail Hollow Golf Club. Fishburn shot a 6-over 77 in the first round on Thursday, making it a challenging start to the tournament.

After beginning on the 10th hole, Fishburn was 2-under par after making birdies at holes 14 and 15. However, he faltered significantly, recording six consecutive bogeys, finishing the round in 134th place. With the majority of the 156-player field still on the course, he was well behind other competitors, including notable players like Phil Mickelson, who finished with an 8-over 79.

Fishburn, 32, had missed the cut at the Myrtle Beach Classic just the week before, but he was determined to seize this chance. He noted that not making the cut last week allowed him to focus on his preparation for the major. “It’s a dream come true,” Fishburn said in an interview. Although he came off a poor performance, he looked forward to the unique challenge of the course at Quail Hollow.

Finau, another former BYU golfer, is also competing in the tournament. He finished tied for 23rd after the first round. Fishburn and Finau practiced together earlier this week, discussing strategies for the championship. Finau, aiming to make his ninth consecutive cut in the PGA Championship, managed to gain momentum after birdying the challenging No. 2 hole.

Fishburn will tee off again on Friday at 10:41 a.m. MDT with teammates Andre Chi and Seamus Power. Finau will begin his next round shortly after at 11:58 a.m. alongside Nicolai Hojgaard and Max Greyserman.

Fishburn, who turned professional in 2018, is optimistic, despite this being his first experience in the majors. He has qualified to play in the championship following another player’s withdrawal due to injury. He expressed confidence in his abilities on the course, stating, “I have a good feeling it will lead to something good.” He plans to focus on the fundamentals of his game rather than specific results.

With support from family, friends, and seasoned golfers, including his mentor Daniel Summerhays, Fishburn continues to refine his skills in hopes of overcoming his inexperience. Summerhays, who has recently undergone rehab, will be present to support Fishburn this weekend.

As Fishburn prepares for his second round, the expectations remain high for him and Finau, both representing Utah at this prestigious event, with Fishburn describing Quail Hollow as an unbelievable venue and one of the largest properties he has ever played on.