From Journeyman to Winner: Wright Secures PGA Tour Champions Card with Unbelievable Finish

Staff Writer

December 11, 2023

Michael Wright’s Unbelievable Finish at PGA Tour Champions Q-School

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Michael Wright, a 49-year-old journeyman on the PGA Tour of Australasia, needed a miracle on the final hole of the PGA Tour Champions Q-School. Little did he know that what happened next would be even better than

what he had hoped for.

Starting the final round at the Champions course in TPC Scottsdale in 10th place, Wright knew he had to make a move if he wanted to secure a PGA Tour Champions status for 2024. And that’s exactly what he did.

With six birdies through 17 holes, Wright climbed up eight spots on the leaderboard. However, disaster struck on the 72nd hole when he blocked his tee shot into the desert. His subsequent chip-out didn’t get him out of the sand, putting him in danger of falling out of the top positions.

Desperate to secure his card, Wright needed to get up and down from nearly 100 yards away. It seemed like an impossible task.

But then, the unthinkable happened.

Wright’s third shot from the desert, still on the wrong side of the cart path, found the putting surface and went in. A hole-out birdie clinched him a spot in the top five, earning him his 2024 PGA Tour Champions card.

The reaction was pure disbelief and joy. Wright and his caddie screamed and hugged each other, celebrating the incredible shot. He couldn’t contain his excitement and did a full 360˚ fist pump, a celebration that embodied the culmination of years of hard work.

Reflecting on his journey, Wright said, “It was one shot, but it was 25 years of hard work.” The emotional moment hit him, and he crouched by the 18th green, covering his face with his hands.

Other Noteworthy Performances

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Wright wasn’t the only Australian to secure his PGA Tour Champions card. Cameron Percy, a veteran of the PGA Tour, finished as the medalist for the week at 20 under. Steven Allan also had a strong showing and finished tied for third. David Bransdon fought through a three-for-one playoff to secure the final spot.

In addition to the Australians, the USAS’ own Shane Bertsch earned his card, tying with Allan at 14 under.

It was a competitive field, and even Major League Baseball legend John Smoltz participated in the Q-School. However, Smoltz finished in solo 73rd place, at 22 over for the week, marking the end of his journey at this particular event.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Did Michael Wright Secure His PGA Tour Champions Card?

Michael Wright secured his PGA Tour Champions card by hitting an incredible hole-out birdie from the desert on the 72nd hole of the Q-School tournament.

Who Else Earned Their PGA Tour Champions Card?

Cameron Percy, Steven Allan, David Bransdon, and Shane Bertsch also earned their PGA Tour Champions cards.

How Did John Smoltz Perform at the Q-School?

John Smoltz finished in solo 73rd place, at 22 over for the week.

What Was Michael Wright’s Reaction to Securing His Card?

Michael Wright was emotional and crouched by the 18th green, covering his face with his hands, as he realized the significance of his accomplishment.

How Many Years Has Michael Wright Been Playing on the PGA Tour of Australasia?

Michael Wright has been playing on the PGA Tour of Australasia for 25 years.

A Final Note

It’s clear that Michael Wright’s journey to the PGA Tour Champions has been a long and challenging one. Through hard work, determination, and a bit of luck, he secured his spot among the top five.

His incredible shot on the 72nd hole will forever be remembered as a career milestone, marking the end of a hard-fought and rewarding journey.