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ARDMORE, PA – August 12, 2024 – The University of Florida men’s golf team is well-represented at the 124th U.S.Amateur Championship, currently underway at the Merion Golf Club in Ardmore, Pennsylvania. Eight Gators are competing in the prestigious event, seeking to add their names to a distinguished list of Florida golfers who have claimed the coveted Havermeyer Cup.
Leading the Florida contingent is standout player Josh Bai, joined by Parker Bell, a 2023 U.S. Amateur Championship Semifinalist, Trevor Gutschewski, the 2024 U.S. Junior Amateur Champion, Matthew Kress, Luke Poulter, Parker Sands, Zack Swanwick, and Jack Turner.
The U.S. Amateur Championship boasts a rich history, and the University of Florida has played a critically important role in its legacy. Bob Murphy was the first Gator to secure the U.S. Amateur title, achieving the feat in 1965. Steve Melnyk followed suit in 1969. Notably, Fred Ridley, the current Chairman of Augusta National Golf Club, also claimed the championship in 1975 while representing Florida. Bubba Dickerson added to the gator’s success in 2001, and former Florida head coach Buddy Alexander won the title in 1986. Merion golf Club, hosting the event, has previously hosted the U.S. Amateur in 1989 and is also a five-time U.S. Open venue (1934, 1950, 1964, 1971, 1981).
Broadcast Schedule (All times are EDT)
wednesday, Aug. 13: 6 p.m.-7 p.m.: Round of 64 (Peacock)
Wednesday, Aug. 13: 7 p.m.-9 p.m.: Round of 64 (Golf Channel)
Thursday, Aug.14: 7-10 p.m.: Round of 16 (Golf Channel)
Friday, Aug. 15: 6 p.