A Division II college golfer will make an unusual leap to the PGA Tour next month. At least, for one week.
Drew Zielinski won Golfweek’s Fripp Island to Bermuda Invite tournament on Tuesday, becoming the first D-II golfer to earn a PGA Tour exemption by virtue of winning a college event.
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The Lee University senior shot a final-round 66 at Ocean Point Golf Links to finish at nine under par for the three-round tournament, two shots ahead of Lee teammate Bennett McNabb. With the win, Zielinski earned a spot in next month’s Butterfield Bermuda Championship.
“This is a dream come true,” Zielinski said in a statement. “To be the first Division II golfer to receive a direct exemption into a PGA Tour event is an incredible honor. This is a testament to the hard work of my coaches and teammates at Lee University. I’m excited to represent our program on the biggest stage in November.”
The Golfweek hosted event at Fripp Island featured 15 D-II golf teams. Lee University won the team title by 18 shots.
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Zielinski birdied his final three holes to secure his first collegiate victory. Talk about good timing.
The Butterfield Bermuda Championship will be held Nov. 13-16 at Port Royal Golf Course. Rafael Campos is the defending champ.
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