To All Posts
June 25, 2024
2 min
Golf Galaxy employee knocks back three beers then qualifies for PGA Tour event
Nick Bienz, a Golf Galaxy employee with a refreshingly candid approach to managing nerves, has clinched a spot in the PGA Tour's Rocket Mortgage Classic in an unexpectedly buzzed fashion this past Monday.
After playing his round under high pressure and scoring a remarkable 7-under 65, Bienz was initially tied for the clubhouse lead. As the remaining scores came in, it was clear that his impressive performance wouldn't be enough to avoid a playoff. Facing the sudden possibility of a playoff, Bienz turned to alcohol, and what started as one drink to calm his nerves quickly turned into three. Just as the third beer settled, Bienz found out he was indeed headed for a playoff, making the stakes even higher and his head a tad lighter.
The Monday qualifiers, notorious for their ruthless nature, are weekly events that offer a lifeline to those on the periphery of professional golf. Competitors play 18 holes and must score exceptionally well to secure a spot in upcoming PGA Tour events. Despite never having played in a major professional event, Bienz's previous high-stakes experience was limited to state opens. His job at Golf Galaxy gave him just enough flexibility to attend the qualifier.
The playoff ensued, with five players vying for four spots on the field. Returning to the course slightly inebriated, Bienz joked about his condition. "Remember how I said three beers would be a perfect amount?" he remarked. "Well, I'm perfect."
The playoff extended over eight challenging holes, with Bienz eventually securing his entry into the tournament on the eighth hole of sudden death with a clutch 4-foot birdie putt. The Golf Galaxy staffer is now set to compete for a share of the over $9 million prize fund. After such a stellar performance on what Bienz described as 'the craziest day of his life,' the golf world is eagerly awaiting to see how he leverages this life-changing opportunity at the Rocket Mortgage Classic.