Team Kuchar cruised to a seven-stroke victory with a total of 33 under – both tournament records. But for Matt Kuchar and son Cameron, it was about much more than a challenge season trophy or a Christmas bonus.
Matt Kuchar’s father, Peter, died in February. Peter Kuchar was a fixture every time his son competed, from his early days as a U.S. Amateur champion to The Players champion in 2012, to earning his spot in the field at Ritz-Carlton Golf Club. Peter Kuchar attended the PNC Championship three times with his son, making the family’s breakthrough on Sunday even more emotional.
“I don’t know if you believe in karma, if you believe in fate, whatever you believe in, there’s something… something magical that exists,” Matt Kuchar said. “I believe in God, that dad is standing above and looking down, and what happened on 18, I could barely get up and make a shot. For me to hit it to the foot [on the final hole]makes me think there is more. [I] just miss… miss pops.”
The birdie on the 36e hole capped a brilliant performance for Matt and Cameron, who will play for the Texas Christian University men’s golf team. Team Kuchar finished with an 18-under 54, which is an 18-hole tournament record, with two eagles, 14 birdies and only two pars. The total of 33 among the players shattered the previous tournament’s total by five strokes.
“This is something we’ve had our sights on for years, ever since Cameron started. I played with Dad my freshman year, [Cameron] has some great memories,” said Matt Kuchar, who fought back tears after the win. “The classic memories of Dad and Cameron were caddying and we were in two just short of the green, close to the water’s edge, and his chipping was never his strong point and he totally smelled the chip. I don’t think Cameron could see all the way down the hill. Dad is laughing from above.”
Davis Love III and his son Dru finished tied with Team Daly – John and his son John II – in second place at 26 under par.
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