U.S. Open-qualifying golfer makes crushing mistake

Tommy Kuhl did the right thing and told the truth, although it cost him dearly.

Kuhl, a fifth-year golf star at the University of Illinois, had his sights set on playing in the prestigious U.S. Open. On Monday, he took a huge step in that direction, shooting an incredible 9-under 62 to win a U.S Open qualifying event in Springfield, Illinois.

It was a course record at Illini Country Club. Kuhl had plenty to celebrate — until he realized he had accidentally broken a rule that he didn’t even know existed.

Before the tournament, the greens had been aerated. Many homeowners use that same process each year in their yard, punching holes in the soil to help improve drainage, loosen the soil and help the root system of the grass.

However, the process leaves a rough surface, a nasty obstacle for golfers accustomed to silky smooth greens. Kuhl had removed or repaired aeration marks several times during his round.

Talking with other golfers afterward, he realized he’d broken the rules. Golf rules allow players to improve damage left by golf spikes, for example, but repairing aeration marks is not permitted.

Kuhl reported his violation to an official and was promptly disqualified.

“I felt sick to my stomach,” Kuhl told Mondayq.com. “I knew I wouldn’t be able to sleep if I didn’t tell the rules official.

“I should know better. It comes down to me. I should know that rule.”

Those who know Kuhl said they’re not surprised he would turn himself in for the violation. Nick Hardy, a PGA Tour player and former teammate of Kuhl’s at Illinois, told the Peoria Journal Star, “He’s always been a stand-up guy.”

Kuhl already has a major golf event on his schedule. He was recently chosen to the USA team for the Arnold Palmer Cup.

[Peoria Journal Star; Photo Credit: University of Illinois]