Hoag Classic Win: Ernie Els Injects Champions Tour With Much Needed Jolt
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Sunday at Newport Beach Country Club played out like an old-style PGA Tour Champions event, with Hall of Famers battling successful ex PGA Tour players and a few journeyman, including a Monday qualifier. And just in time for a Tour that has not gotten support from the legends as much in recent years, Ernie Els appeared rejuvenated by his first pro win in over six years (2013 BMW International).
Andrew Turner with the LA Times story on Els’ Hoag Classic win coming just weeks after a playoff loss in the season opener.
“I didn’t have that free-flowing feeling,” said Els, who shot four-under 67 in the final round. “I had to work hard for it, and that’s a good thing to do, to work hard for something. You don’t want something falling in your lap. I’m glad the first one’s over with, and we can move on now and it gets more comfortable after this.
“After being in a playoff in Hawaii, coming close to winning there, I didn’t want to mess this one up. I had a great opportunity, and I wanted to try and take that.”
Along with Els, having Couples still playing well and maybe a more Davis Love participation, it could be the boost PGA Tour Champions needs.
Els polished off the win with a classy bunker shot at 18:
