Mark Hubbard had a memorable day at the Procore Championship with nine birdies and one triple bogey, finishing at 5-under 67, just two shots off the lead set by David Lipsky. Hubbard admitted it was a unique round for him given his mixed success. The tournament almost slipped out of Hubbard’s hands, as he missed the deadline to register by just 23 minutes, attributing it to technical difficulties with his phone. With no sponsor invites available, Hubbard had to secure his spot by playing the Monday qualifier, which he aced with a 7-under 65 at Yolo Fliers Club.
Hubbard felt at home playing in the Procore Championship, as he attended college at San Jose State, and the location was close to his wife’s family in Sacramento. The Napa area also holds a special place in his heart due to his affinity for wine. Although Hubbard experienced highs and lows throughout his round, his positive mental attitude and determination shone through. He acknowledged his brother’s untimely presence and admitted he faced challenges, including a triple bogey on the 17th hole, where he overcame his frustration and quickly recovered.
Hubbard credited his putter change to his improved performance, opting for his old Odyssey No. 9 model over a TaylorMade Spider mallet. Lipsky, who led the tournament with an impressive 65, enjoyed a resurgence after spending time with his former coach at Northwestern University, focusing on rediscovering the joy of playing golf. Despite the initial setback of missing the registration deadline, Hubbard maintained a positive outlook and quickly rebounded to make the most of his opportunity to compete in a tournament he loves.
Overcoming the disappointment of missing the deadline, Hubbard exemplified resilience and a strong mental game, emphasizing the importance of staying focused and positive in the face of challenges. Lipsky’s experience highlighted the need to step back and appreciate the fun aspects of golf, embodying a refreshed perspective that led to success on the course. Both players showcased the significance of mental fortitude and a positive attitude in navigating the highs and lows of professional golf, ultimately achieving success through determination and perseverance.
