Hensby, Hamilton, Ames qualify for NEC Invitational
BY iseekgolf.com | US PGA Tour | 2004 NEC Invitational | General | 27 Jul 2004
Patience proved to be an virtue for Stephen Ames, Mark Hensby and Todd Hamilton. The three have each taken different paths to reach the PGA TOUR, but all were rewarded for their perseverance as Ames and Hensby both used recent victories on the PGA TOUR to join British Open Champion Todd Hamilton as players who have qualified for the 2004 World Golf Championships-NEC Invitational at Firestone Country Club, Aug. 16-22.
Hamilton, a 38-year-old rookie on the PGA TOUR, defeated Els in a four-hole playoff at Royal Troon to win his second PGA TOUR event and his first Major Championship. Hamilton gained experience playing on the Japanese Tour and has been playing in the Far East for the better part of the last 12 years.
“It seems like probably a fairy tale, and to me it really is,” he said.
Ames, who turned pro in 1987 and has been on the PGA TOUR since 1996, has been one of the most consistent players on the PGA TOUR this season. He currently ranks third on TOUR with nine top-10 finishes behind Phil Mickelson and Vijay Singh. His victory at the Cialis Western Open helped him to his current No. 6 spot on the PGA TOUR Money List.
Ames, who is the first touring pro from Trinidad and Tobago, has also played in the World Golf Championships-World Cup with his brother, Robert, who currently caddies for Stephen.
Hensby, who spent six years on the Nationwide Tour, defeated John E. Morgan in a playoff at the John Deere Classic for his first PGA TOUR victory. Hensby, 33, earned a spot in the British Open with his victory, but turned down the invitation due to lack of experience on links golf courses. Hensby is No. 15 on the PGA TOUR Money List.
“It’s taken a long time,” said Hensby. “I grew up from a background with not a lot of money and not much help. But I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
With the best players from around the globe continue to qualify for the World Golf Championships-NEC Invitational, fans should secure their tickets now as this is the last week to purchase tickets at the advance price. Tickets range in price from US$45 daily passes to US$125 weekly championship ticket books.
“Players like Todd Hamilton, Stephen Ames and Mark Hensby are each great examples of how dedication and perseverance can pay off,” said Tom Strong, Executive Director. “The World Golf Championships-NEC Invitation will again be a fantastic collection of players from all over the world who have each taken different paths to get here. Fans should get their tickets now to see the best the world has to offer.”
Tickets to the 2004 NEC Invitational can be purchased by calling the Championship Office at 330-664-2299, by calling toll free 1-877-942-4849, or by logging on to www.worldgolfchampionships.com.
Source – WGC
