Jake Higginbottom turns professional following his NZ Open victory
Jake Higginbottom, who was unable to accept the $A80,000 winner’s cheque at the New Zealand Open because of his amateur status, decided to turn professional on Tuesday, November 27, 2012.
Higginbottom carded a sparkling five-under par 67 in the final round at the Clearwater Golf Club, to take home the prestigious Brodie Breeze Trophy.
With his win, the Australian became the first amateur in 56 years to record a victory in one of the longest running sporting event in New Zealand. Harry Berwick was the last player to achieve that feat in 1956.
The victory also earned him a two-year exemption on the OneАsiа Tour and the PGА Tour of Australasia, as the tournament was co-sanctioned by both tours.
Moreover, he also earned an automatic entry into the second stage of the PGA Tour, and the European Tour qualifying schools for the 2013 golf season.
Talking to the media, he revealed that he had no plans to turn pro until the end of the 2013 golf season.
However, the victory forced him to revise his plans and he decided to join the professional ranks from then onwards.
"I've discussed this with my team and we're all very comfortable with the move. I feel that the time is right as I now have playing opportunities in the professional ranks. It's exciting and I'm looking forward to starting my pro career," said the
19-year-old.
Brad James, the high performance Director of Golf Australia, also congratulated him on turning professional after a successful amateur career.
"This is great news for Jake and exactly what Golf Australia and the State Associations strive to achieve in taking players to the next level. Jake has worked hard over the last 12 months and we're pleased to see him make the next step in his career,”
he said.
The Australian is now set to make his professional debut at the NSW PGA Championship, slated to start from November 29, 2012.
The tournament will be played at the Mt Broughton Golf and Country Club in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales.
He will then participate in the Australian Open, and the Australian PGA Championship, scheduled next month.
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