A Captain in the Air Force, he turned to full-time professional golf upon his discharge in summer 2019, even Monday qualifying for the Utah Championship presented by Zions Bank while on terminal leave before discharge. For regular citizen golfers, theres an important lesson that can be learned here. A top junior player in Katy, Texas, he had numerous offers to play college golf. Since then, Kyle has been working his way through Qualifying School and the Korn Ferry Tour to make his way to the PGA TOUR. He was a senior in college at Air Force in 2014 and then served out his five-year commitment, reaching the rank of captain serving in the financial management division. The wealthy Saudi-backed LIV Golf league embodied its "Golf, but louder" slogan in its first season. The cacophony brings Kyle Westmoreland comfort. [5], In 2022, Westmoreland played on the Korn Ferry Tour with a best finish of T-7th place at AdventHealth Championship.[6]. Well, its actually the loft of a 2-iron, he says, but the 1 looks cleaner. Admittedly, having a 1-iron in the bag does look pretty cool. I wanted to learn more about his. Westmoreland may be one of the longshots at Torrey Pines but military men have made their mark at the U.S. Open before. Andrew Tursky is the Senior Equipment Editor at GOLF Magazine and GOLF.com. Weekends allowed time to really grind. He is now the first and only Air Force Academy graduate to earn a PGA TOUR card. However, the golfers family has no evident relation to the former chief of staff of the U.S. Army. Westmoreland has bench-pressed upwards of 375 pounds and squatted in excess of 500. And its why the U.S. Open being a true open again is another welcome sign that life is returning to something resembling normal. Beat Army. Westmoreland, who saw his score inch up in the wrong direction each day this week, posted scores of 69-70-71-72 and finished 6 under, 15 shots back of Korn Ferry Tour Championship winner Justin Suh. Kyle Westmoreland first Air Force Academy graduate earn PGA Tour card Its often forgotten that design contribution extended all the way to Australia, where Arnold Palmer in his playing days won an Australian Open and Wills Masters title. I knew I wouldnt being to play right away, but I hoped it would work out.. He and his wife, Katherine Stevens Van Deusen, are parents to three childrenKatherine Stevens, James Ripley II, and Margaret Childs. Privacy Policy. Kyle Westmoreland becomes first Air Force player to make cut at U.S During his five years in the Air Force, he won four college tournaments, earned All-Honors and even was named the Air Force Academys Male Athlete of the Year. But when you see the one Kyle Westmoreland made on Wednesday during the first round of the Farmers Insurance Open you'll also agree this was particularly pleasing to the eye. Rarely does Westmoreland use the word I. As a military man, he values the team he has around him whether its his fellow Air Force members, lieutenants, sponsors, golf coaches, or wife. U.S. Open: Kyle Westmoreland is first Air Force Academy grad - Golfweek PGA Tour rookie Carson Young, seeking his first win, posted a 5-under 67 on Friday and built a 4-shot lead going into the weekend at the Puerto Rico Open. [1] Professional career [ edit] U.S. Open 2021: Meet Kyle Westmoreland, The First Air Force Veteran to Make Cut in a Major. On his way to a deployment in Africa, Westmoreland spent a week in Roda, Spain, where he could only rent one club per day. [1], Westmoreland made the cut at the 2021 U.S. Open with a tie for 68th place, becoming the first Air Force Academy graduate to do so. Finished T-9 2022 Nationwide Childrens Hospital Open 7th 2022 Wichita Open, Finished T-7 2022 Advent Health Championship, Finished T-15 2022 Chitimacha Louisiana Open, Finished T-25 2022 The Panama Championship, Finished T-3 2021 ATP Paragon Casino Championship 2nd 2021 ST Atlanta 2nd 2021 SST Las Vegas 1ST 2021 U.S. Open Local Qualifier 4th 2021 U.S. Open Sectional Qualifier, United States Air Force Academy Male Athlete of the Year (2014). All rights reserved. After graduation in 2014, Westmoreland spent the next three years stationed in Charleston, S.C., and Biloxi, Miss., working in the Air Force's financial-management division. He played golf in the U.S. Air Force Academy where he was named male athlete of the year in 2014. Sometimes golf can make you want to snap a golf club over your knee, or hang up your sticks altogether. Then if were trying to long drive it for whatever reason, we can get it up to about 206.. The now 27-year-old turned pro after serving five-and-a-half years of active duty for the Air Force. But perhaps an ace is exactly what this ace pilot needed to jumpstart his season. At the U.S. Open, Kyle became the first Air Force Academy graduate to not only play in, but also make the cut at one of the sports Major Championships. The PGA Tour rookie and former Air Force captain arrived at the 201-yard 16th hole (his seventh of the day) at Torrey Pines South at one over. Kyle Westmoreland is on Facebook. View the profiles of people named Kyle Westmoreland. By: Caroline John - Published: November 12, 2021 at 7:01 am, Kyle Westmoreland at Torrey Pines Golf Course on June 17, 2021 in San Diego, California. Especially in desert golf, its playing firm, you hit that out there itll go forever. He said, Figure out what youre good at and get really good at it, Westmoreland said. Kyle Westmoreland becomes first USAFA grad to qualify for US Open Likewise, Captain Kyle Westmoreland booked his debut becoming the first Air Force Academy graduate to compete in the U.S. Open and the first to play in one of golfs four major championships. Want to overhaul your bag for 2021? The academy seemed hard, Westmoreland said. Join Facebook to connect with Kyle Westmoreland and others you may know. Kyle Westmoreland Scorecards | ESPN Im in a better mental headspace, he said. by Mastercard. William Westmoreland served as the chief of staff of the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Kyle Westmoreland (born September 20, 1991) is an American professional golfer. "For me and the Air Force golf program, this is it. 1:47 Kyle Westmoreland took a moment on the 18th hole to take in the surroundings. He chose to attend. Place a golf ball on one end, and putt along the ruler so the golf ball stays on the surface without rolling off the side. Kyle Westmoreland | Military Wiki | Fandom Golf can be confusing and frustrating, but you dont have to go at it alone. The golf community on social media cant help but wonder if he is related to General William Westmoreland, the late commander of the U.S. Armed Forces during the Vietnam War. Our results with players at this years Hot List testing show that some players cant carry a 5-iron farther than they fly a 7-iron. US Open 2021: Meet Kyle Westmoreland, Air Force Vet Who Made Cut - Outsider These are dollar and a dream stories, and this year 19 U.S. Open qualifiers advanced through both local and final qualifying. That left Westmoreland to work on his short game at night in his room, or on the practice green. Westmoreland has made history this week, becoming the first player from the Air Force Academy to qualify . William Westmoreland was born in 1914 near Spartanburg, South Carolina, into a family whose ancestors fought in the Revolutionary War and served in the Confederate Army during the Civil War. I can't wait to play another tournament., Jon Rahm is a big believer in karma. Many of the greens where he served were bumpy, so he would practice on a ruler instead. 7 interesting gear finds inside Tommy Fleetwood's golf bag | Bag Spy, Upgrade your bag with these Arnold Palmer head covers, How to prevent golf-club damage | Fully Equipped Mailbag, Don't risk buying counterfeit golf clubs | Fully Equipped podcast, FIRST LOOK: PXG launches its first golf ball the PXG Xtreme, New PXG golf clubs for 2023 (drivers, irons, fairway woods, hybrids) | ClubTest 2023, How a PXG fitting helped this 12-handicap pick up nearly 20 yards | 2023 ClubTest, FIRST LOOK: PXG's new 0211 drivers, fairway woods and hybrids, FIRST LOOK: PXG's 0317 ST Blade irons are geared for the elite ball-striker, How this golf-equipment company is helping to make the game more diverse and inclusive, PXG enters uncharted territory with latest equipment release. Westmoreland has made history this week, becoming the first player from the Air Force Academy to qualify for the U.S. Open. Five years of service did nothing to blunt his game. Kyle Westmoreland thriving at U.S. Open after Air Force service Photo credit: Harry How/Getty Images. Everything you need to know for the final round at Bay Hill. "This is a game of misses. I go through a few days not hitting it well Im like, uh, whats going on. Others in the field include Rickie Fowler, Gary Woodland, Brandt Snedeker and past winner Cameron Champ. Westmorelands dream was deferred five years but hes made it to his first major before 30 and says hes better for it. He proved a worthy winner, but there always will be an asterisk of sorts for one reason and it has nothing to do with the lack of spectators. 5 great reasons to put Bonville at the top of your list in 2023, Course flyover: The Western Australian Golf Club. Since he began advancing in the golf scene with his intriguing military background, social media users are questioning a possible connection between him and General William Westmoreland. "Go Air Force. Arnold Palmer Invitational pres. Westmoreland, who saw his score inch up in the wrong direction each day this week, posted scores of 69-70-71-72 and finished 6 under, 15 shots back of Korn Ferry Tour Championship winner Justin Suh. written by Matthew Wilson June 20, 2021 3:29 pm. I wanted to learn more about his backstory and outlook, and also understand how a military man could possibly have enough time to ready his golf game to compete professionally. He . Here are 5 things about life, golf and equipment I learned from my sit down with Westmoreland. Westmoreland received a sponsors invite to play in the Shriners Open, and he also recently made history at the 2021 U.S. Open at Torrey Pines, becoming the first ever Air Force Academy graduate to qualify for the event. Golf Channel, All Rights Reserved. For men like Captain Westmoreland who have clawed their way into the field at one of the most prestigious championships in golf, this week is about dreams coming true, of a lifetime of hard work, of perseverance paying off. The guy who misses the best is going to win. He earned $122,575 in on-course winnings during the 2022 campaign. In the summer of 2019, he turned to golf full. Go Air Force. He. Each member firm is responsible only for its own acts and omissions, and not those of any other party. The 29-year-old touring pro put his professional aspirations on hold for five years while serving his country and advanced through local qualifying at Columbia Country Club in Blythewood, South Carolinawhere he was medalist by two strokes (69)and final qualifying at Dallas Athletic Club to earn his first U.S. Open start. And, you know, kind of have a foundation built that I wouldnt have had had I not been in the military.. But not too much. Every golfer dreams of getting their handicap down, and weve got news for you. Volition America donates a portion of its profits to the Folds of Honor, a foundation that provides educational scholarships to the families of fallen soldiers, and Westmoreland wears the Puma x Volition America apparel proudly. Whats the secret of longevity and good golf? A Captain in the Air Force, he turned to full-time professional golf upon his discharge in summer 2019, even Monday qualifying for the Utah Championship presented by Zions Bank while . Kyle Westmoreland, an Air Force Academy graduate who's currently navigating the world of professional golf, has a unique perspective on both golf and life. Westmoreland, who saw his score inch up in the wrong direction each day this week, posted scores of 69-70-71-72 and finished 6 under, 15 shots back of Korn Ferry Tour Championship winner Justin Suh. This is the big highlight," Koury told The Denver Gazette. While he did have access to a golf course on the base, other duties always came first (obviously). Westmoreland is one of the few pro golfers left with a 1-iron in his bag. ESPN Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved. As his service commitment drew to a close, Kyle set his sights on professional golf again and even shot a 7-under to qualify for the 2021 U.S. Open at Torrey Pines. These are just a few examples, but experiment with a number of options at the top end of your set so youre ready for ever-changing golf course conditions. Defending tournament champ Max Homa has committed to play. Westmoreland thriving at U.S. Open after Air Force service - News Tribune Rules Review: What is casual water and how do I play around it? Every architect wants their holes to be challenging, entertaining and pretty, but these are the things that happen on the surface, and only after other critical elements have been put in place. Even when you cant get to a golf course, you can still work on your putting nearly anywhere. Kyle Westmoreland recaps his experience at the U.S. Open. Kyle Westmoreland PGA TOUR Player Profile, Stats, Bio, Career He made the cut in the 2021 U.S. Open, becoming the first Air Force Academy graduate to do so. Westmoreland has serious speed off the tee, saying he tops out at 206 mph of ball speed with his driver. He and his sister were raised in Katy by their parents, Don and Kim Westmoreland. Also Read: Are Brian Harman and Butch Harmon Related? Kyle Westmoreland - Wikipedia Westmoreland actually said he used to be a lot faster than Bryson, but hes since put those days behind him, prioritizing accuracy rather than distance. Which ball counts? We know what you're thinking after reading that headline: Any hole-in-one is spectacular. In golf, as in life, perspective can greatly influence your attitude and overall performance. Is Golfer Kyle Westmoreland Related to General William Westmoreland? For Westmorelands buddies in the military they go by Sticks, Thunder and Dog golf is an outlet for enjoyment away from their stressful day jobs. Air Force Captain Kyle Westmoreland looking to take flight at 2020 RELATED: Meet the Air Force captain teeing it up on the PGA Tour. Kyle Westmoreland is a 30-year-old Houston native who spent five-and-a-half years on active duty in the Air Force following graduation from the Air Force Academy. Kyle Westmoreland (born September 20, 1991) is an American professional golfer . By signing up, you agree to the Its easier to do than you might think. Westmoreland's journey to Torrey Pines is one of the more unique ones in the 156-player field. The PGA Tour announced the field for what's often known as golf's "fifth major," and Tiger Woods was not part of the group that will tee it up at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. Top 100 Courses in the U.S.: GOLFs all-new 2022-23 ranking is here! Find a fitting location near you at GOLFs affiliate companyTrueSpecGolf. He makes that decision based on which of the clubs hes likely to use most often at different courses and in different conditions. Players had until 5 p.m. But can a league that embraced 54 holes, team golf and shotgun starts sustain? Check it out: See? Kyle Westmoreland | Team RSM Since its opening in March 1993, the golf course at Links Hope Island has regularly featured among the leading courses in Australia. And were Tour bound, baby, he said with the sun setting behind him and 24 others who made their dreams come true Sunday at Victoria National in Newburgh, Indiana. [2][3] He was medalist at local qualifying during the qualification process. Military Wiki is a FANDOM Lifestyle Community. It basically goes the same distance, but Im pretty much never gonna miss the face with the driver. Kyle Westmoreland, a 2014 USAFA graduate, will compete in the 121 st U.S. Open Championship, June 17-20, at Torrey Pines Golf Course in San Diego, Calif. Westmoreland is the first Academy graduate to compete in the U.S. Open and the first to ever play in one of the PGA's four major championships. Early Thursday morning, that grandson 25-year-old Cameron Champ stood in wonder at Augusta National's first tee, watching his grandfather's hero serve as an honorary starter for the 85th. Air Force Academy Athletics Northwestern's Peter Skoronski could be a sure thing a Bears OL Westmoreland did his best to keep his game sharp while serving. Christopher Crawford, who has competed on several professional circuits, including the newly created Forme Tour, did it the hard way for the third time. It's been a rough rookie campaign so far for the 31-year-old with six missed cuts in eight starts. If youre playing in windy conditions, consider keeping a driving iron or long iron on deck for a more penetrating flight. SAN DIEGO The steady stream of fighter jets roaring overhead mostly go unnoticed, background noise to the beautiful views and brilliant golf at Torrey Pines. SHARE ON. Are they right? And, you're probably right. He knows, however, that hitting fairways can be equally as important to his scores as hitting it deep. ", https://golfweek.usatoday.com/2021/06/15/u-s-open-captain-kyle-westmoreland/, Mexico, Caribbean, Atlantic islands, Central America, Top 50 Classic Courses in Great Britain & Ireland, Top 50 Modern Courses in Great Britain & Ireland, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. 2023 Arnold Palmer Invitational: How to watch, TV schedule, streaming, tee times, Meet the new GOLF Top 100 Teachers of America, 7 interesting gear finds inside Tommy Fleetwoods golf bag | Bag Spy, Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard, Westmoreland with his some friends from the Air Force. U.S. Open: Full-field scores | Full coverage. The time in the Air Force served him well. The pro golf made quite the distinction, becoming the first Air Force veteran to qualify in the Majors. Kyle Westmoreland, an Air Force Academy graduate whos currently navigating the world of professional golf, has a unique perspective on both golf and life. Westmoreland qualified after shooting a seven-under-par 135, tying him for fourth overall at the Dallas qualifier. Westmoreland competed for the United States Air Force Academy where he was named male athlete of the year in 2014 after finishing 4th at the Mountain West Conference championships. Paul Klee: Let it rip! Air Force graduate Kyle Westmoreland ready to No wonder hes hit so many on-line putts on Torrey Pines tricky greens this week. Westmorelands journey to Torrey Pines is one of the more unique ones in the 156-player field. HyperFlex Carbon The new HyperFlex Carbon offers tour-proven enhancements, delivering unquestioned innovation, comfort, stability and visual design. If youre playing a short and tight course, for example, maybe you want to put a hybrid or high-lofted fairway wood in the bag to hit off the tee. "@Kyle_West_ played collegiality @AF_Golf and completed a five-year service commitment in the @USAirForce before pursuing professional golf. USE OF AND/OR REGISTRATION ON ANY PORTION OF THIS SITE CONSTITUTES ACCEPTANCE OF OURVISITOR AGREEMENT(UPDATED 1/6/23),PRIVACY AND COOKIES NOTICE(UPDATED 1/4/23) ANDCALIFORNIA PRIVACY NOTICE. But he walked off the green in red figures after acing the par 3 with a one-hopper. But they play three times a year; enjoying golf has become a great pastime of theirs and it blows off steam. He's the first Air Force Academy graduate to earn a @PGATOUR card. His father introduced him to golf when he was seven and he has been on the greens since. It provides great inspiration to golfers around the world. Learn from Jon Rahms abbreviated action to maximise your power game. The cacophony brings Kyle Westmoreland comfort. A top junior player in Katy, Texas, he had numerous offers to play college golf. ", "It's frustrating in the moment when it's happening, but afterwards for me now, I don't really care as much. Kyle Westmoreland becomes first Air Force Academy graduate to earn a For more on the latest gear news and information, check out our latest Fully Equipped podcast below! I know who I am now and what my priorities are. Facebook gives people the. Kyle Westmoreland comes full circle at Cadence Bank Houston Open https://www.usopen.com/watch/features/2021/06/15/backstories-with-baileykyle-westmoreland6258979517001.html. A new star in the golf scene shares his last name with a significant personality in modern U.S. history, and golf watchers wonder if there is a connection between them. Kyle had a strong 2022 season on the Korn Ferry Tour, as he had three top-10 finishes and was 13th on Tour in driving distance. After a tour of the base, and watching fighter jets lift off from the runway (with ear plugs in to block the incredibly loud noise), Westmoreland sat down with me for a guest spot on GOLFs Fully Equipped podcast. There's been a batch of unforgettable at Torrey Pines particularly on its par-5 closing hole so let's take a trip down memory lane. Beat Army, Sink Navy. And then we have a full swing, whichits not a full back swing. He is a longtime disciple of kickboxing and Muay Thai and taught hand-to-hand combat at the Air Force Academy.. When Air Force graduate Kyle Westmoreland last year became the first academy alum to compete in the U.S. Open, then-Falcons golf coach George Koury described it as the ultimate. [1], Westmoreland made the cut at the 2021 U.S. Open and finished in a tie for 68th place, becoming the first Air Force Academy graduate to do so. But thats a story for another day. They dont play very oftenbut when they get out there they still hit it good somehow, Westmoreland said on Fully Equipped. While golf is an individual sport, its important to keep a supportive team around you to help you meet your goals. Kyle Westmoreland (born September 20, 1991) is an American professional golfer. Kyle Westmoreland was born in Lewisville, Texas, four hours north of Memorial Park, host of this week's Cadence Bank Houston Open. Player's Take: Kyle Westmoreland - PGATour