The 124th U.S. Amateur tournament teed off with 312 players in the field, ranging from a 14-year-old to a 61-year-old. The tournament schedule includes stroke play on the first two days, followed by match play rounds leading up to the championship match on August 18th. The two courses hosting the event are Hazeltine National Golf Club and Chaska Town Course, both located in Chaska, Minnesota.
Hazeltine National Golf Club, a prestigious venue that has hosted major events in the past, will challenge players with its length and thick rough. On the other hand, Chaska Town Course offers a shorter layout but still poses a challenge with its design. The tournament will be broadcast on various networks throughout the week, giving fans the opportunity to watch the action unfold.
Some notable players to watch at the 2024 U.S. Amateur include Gordon Sargent, Jackson Koivun, and Luke Clanton, who have had successful amateur and collegiate careers leading up to the event. Another intriguing player is Miles Russell, a 15-year-old prodigy who has already made waves by competing on the Korn Ferry Tour. Additionally, John Daly II, son of the famous golfer, earned his spot in the tournament through a playoff.
One player with a unique connection to the courses is Gunnar Broin, a Minnesota native who grew up playing at Chaska Town Course and caddied at Hazeltine. His familiarity with the layouts could give him an advantage in the tournament. The winner of the U.S. Amateur will receive a gold medal, the Havemeyer Trophy, and exemptions into prestigious events such as the U.S. Open and The Open Championship.
Luke Clanton, a rising star in amateur golf, has already made a name for himself in 2024 by finishing inside the top 10 in three out of his six PGA Tour starts. His recent success on the professional tour has garnered attention as he competes in the U.S. Amateur. With a field full of top-ranked amateurs, the competition promises to be intense and exciting for fans.
Overall, the 2024 U.S. Amateur tournament is set to showcase the future stars of golf as they compete for a prestigious title and valuable exemptions. With a mix of seasoned players and young talents, the event will provide a platform for amateurs to shine on a national stage. Stay tuned to watch the drama unfold as the tournament progresses towards crowning a champion on August 18th.
