UTA’s Deane Has Difficult Opening Round at PGA Championship

via UTA

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — It was a tough day at the office for Stuart Deane in today’s first round of the 99th PGA Championship. But, that didn’t keep the buoyant Aussie from remaining optimistic about his experience in one of professional golf’s most prestigious events.

Deane, UTA’s director of golf, turned in a 13-over par 84 today on the 7,600-yard, par 71 Quail Hollow Club golf course. He is one of several golfers in the field that shot over par by double figures on a course that features a degree of difficulty that is reflective of a major championship.

“It is just incredibly difficult,” said Deane, who is playing in his second PGA Championship. “The margins are really small and it is hard to get it close to the hole. I didn’t feel like I hit it terrible. In fact, I think I hit it pretty good. I just didn’t make a putt inside 10 feet today.

“All-in-all, this is a great experience. Zach (Cole) and I were walking down the fairway and talked about how, regardless of what happens, this is a win. We are representing UTA and our program. Zach is having a great time and we are trying our best on every shot.

“Zach had a great day. I had a great day. I feel like I’ve been beaten up, but that’s okay. It is still an awesome experience.”