Title: Young Golfer, Blades Brown, Readies for Pro Debut at The American Express
This week at PGA West, the American Express kicks off the PGA Tour's California swing with an impressive $8.8 million purse on the line. Topping last year's headline-grabbing storyline won't be a walk in the park. That's when University of Alabama alum Nick Dunlap, who later became the PGA Tour's Rookie of the Year, broke an 11-year streak by becoming the first amateur to win a tournament since Phil Mickelson faced off against the Northern Telecom Open in 1991.
Dunlap, now a multititle champion, demonstrated some serious putting prowess, claiming the title with a putting masterclass. During the third round, he exhibited an uncanny ability to read breaks, sinking ten birdies and an eagle, resulting in a record-breaking 29-under score since the tournament transitioned to a 72-hole format in 2016.
Nashville's teenage sensation, Blades Brown, might have what it takes to recreate Dunlap's success this time around. At 17, Brown eclipsed Bobby Jones' longstanding record to become the youngest medalist in U.S. Amateur history. Not to mention, he's one of a very exclusive club to medal in both the U.S. Am and the U.S. Junior Am, alongside golfing greats like Tiger Woods and Bobby Clampett.
Despite academic offers from numerous top-tier universities, Brown opted to bypass college opportunities and turn pro. Last summer, he seized an exemption to compete in the Myrtle Beach Classic as an amateur, proving his ability to match scores with veterans holding tour cards by making the cut and finishing tied for 26th.
As Brown prepares for his debut in the PGA Tour as a professional, he reflects on the inspiration he derived from Dunlap's milestone victory.
"Nick was a huge influence, especially when I watched him sink that 6-footer on the 18th green live on TV. He made me question what I'm capable of," he shared during a recent press engagement.
Brown faces an uphill challenge, launching his professional career with a tournament held on three unfamiliar golf courses. But despite this, he welcomes the challenge with open arms, even joking about transporting the courses to Tennessee during a snowy winter.
The field is stacked with established contenders, including Justin Thomas, Patrick Cantlay, Sungjae Im, and Finau, who can relate to Brown's decision to turn pro early on.
"Dropping out of college was a massive leap of faith, but I wouldn't have it any other way. It gave me invaluable experience that set the stage for my success on the tour," Finau said prior to the event.
From the thrilling tournament action to the philanthropic efforts of the American Express for local charities and the weekend concert series, this weekend promises to be a joyful event for spectators. Country sensation Little Big Town takes the stage on Friday, and Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Journey headline the show on Saturday. Catch these incredible acts and watch the rising star, Blades Brown, try to make PGA history.
Brown's golf bag might include a few blades with brown spikes, paying homage to his home city's Nashville Sounds baseball team. At the American Express tournament, Brown aims to follow in Dunlap's footsteps and make his own impact on the PGA Tour, just like how 'The American Express' has supported various charities throughout its tournaments on the PGA Tour.
