Cameron Champ becomes Sacramento’s newest pro golfer. A year ago, it wasn’t a thought
It was surprising to see Sacramento’s Cameron Champ in the field for the second stage of Web.com Tour qualifying tournament last week even though his U.S. Open showing in June had earned him the spot.
He was still an amateur and still had his senior season to play at Texas A&M, after all.
Champ tied for 11th to advance to the final stage. He turned pro shortly thereafter and will play in this week’s PGA Tour’s OHL Classic in Mexico on a sponsor’s exemption.
“Before the U.S. Open, I wasn’t even thinking about (turning pro),” Champ told Golfweek. “But when I made the cut at Erin Hills, that changed the whole game plan.
“I played well throughout the summer and that boosted my confidence in turning pro. I really think the timing is right.”
Champ will try to earn fully exempt status on the Web.com Tour during the qualifying finals Dec. 7-10. He will also seek sponsor’s exemptions during January and February when the PGA Tour makes its West Coast swing.
Folsom’s Kevin Lucas also advanced to the final stage.
Steve Pajak: 916-326-5526.
This story was originally published November 7, 2017 at 2:49 PM with the headline "Cameron Champ becomes Sacramento’s newest pro golfer. A year ago, it wasn’t a thought."