Brad Illes undergoes surgery after freak accident
BY iseekgolf.com | US Mens Amateur Tour | 2004 Annual Players Amateur | General | 21 Jul 2004
New Zealand’s leading amateur golfer Brad Illes underwent surgery after a freak accident on a golf course in the United States at the weekend.
Iles was involved in an accident on a golf cart at the conclusion of the Players Amateur Championship in Savannah, Georgia. The 20-year-old finished ninth at the prestigious tournament, continuing his good run of form in North American over the past month.
The Wellington player is believed to have suffered a head injury that required surgery. His parents flew out of Wellington today to be with their son.
Details are still sketchy regarding the incident but it was believed to have been after the presentation function at the end of the tournament. The hospital reported that Illes is in a serious but stable condition.
Iles, the Australian Amateur strokeplay champion, was in the United States as part of his international development. He was expected to be named to lead the New Zealand team in October’s Eisenhower Trophy world teams championships in Puerto Rico.
New Zealand Golf Operations Manager Phil Aickin said the accident was a tragedy for Iles and New Zealand Golf.
“Our thoughts right now are with Bradley and his family. We hope he makes a full and speedy recovery and is able to return to the game he loves. He was our No 1 ranked player and has a superb future in the game. Brad is also a tremendous character. This is a real tragedy.”
Source – NZGA
