Zac Blair, a PGA Tour pro, is not only making a name for himself on the golf course but also in the world of course design and development. At the Pinehurst U.S Open, Blair is in a tie for 25th, looking for his best Open finish ever. He describes Pinehurst No. 2 as one of the best courses in the world, praising its design and challenging qualities.
Blair, a player known for being one of the shortest hitters on the PGA Tour, is defying expectations with his performance at Pinehurst. Despite his lack of distance off the tee, Blair appreciates the course’s ability to allow players to run the ball up to the green. He enjoys the challenge of the fast greens and rough that can either provide lucky shots or make things more difficult.
As a part-time course developer, Blair is involved in projects like The Tree Farm near Aiken, S.C., where he incorporates firm, sandy turf reminiscent of Scottish courses. His appreciation for courses that are fast and challenging aligns with his design mentor Tom Doak, known for his innovative and strategic course designs. Blair’s unique combination of being a touring pro and course developer sets him apart in the golf world.
Despite facing challenges on the PGA Tour, Blair’s dedication to his game paid off last year with a notable second-place finish at Hartford. Balancing his passion for golf with his interest in course design is a rare combination in the professional golf world. Blair’s unconventional path and success demonstrate his commitment to both aspects of the sport and his ability to excel in multiple areas.
While the focus in golf often revolves around top players and major winners, Blair represents the many rank-and-file players on the PGA Tour who work hard to make a living and achieve personal milestones. His goal of achieving his best U.S. Open finish reflects the dedication and determination of players like Blair who may not always receive the same level of attention but are essential to the fabric of professional golf.
Blair’s experience at the U.S. Open showcases his appreciation for the challenges of the course and the competition. Playing in a major championship like the U.S. Open is a significant achievement for any golfer, and Blair’s perspective on the difficulty and importance of each hole highlights his love for the game and the tournament. Despite the pressure and intensity of the U.S. Open, Blair remains focused on playing his best and enjoying the opportunity to compete at the highest level.
Overall, Zac Blair’s presence at the Pinehurst U.S. Open exemplifies his unique position as both a PGA Tour pro and a course developer. His love for the game, appreciation for challenging course designs, and dedication to his craft set him apart in the golf world. As he aims for his best U.S. Open finish, Blair continues to showcase his talent, determination, and passion for both playing and designing golf courses, making him a standout figure in the sport.
