Riverside Native and Resident, David Gazzolo, Qualifies for the 118th U.S. Open Championship
Published: 06/06/2018
For Immediate Release:
Contact: Shaheen Roostai, Director
Riverside Sports Commission
[email protected]
951.335.7040
Riverside Native and Resident, David Gazzolo, Qualifies for the 118th U.S. Open Championship!
RIVERSIDE, CA (June 6, 2018) – The Riverside Sports Commission congratulates Riverside native and resident David Gazzolo on qualifying for the 118th U.S. Open Championship to be played at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, N.Y., June 14 - 17, 2018. One of the world’s toughest tests in golf, 8,537 from around the globe competed for 74 spots in the U.S. Open.
Gazzolo, 25, was born and raised in Riverside, played golf and graduated from both Poly High School and the University of California, Riverside.
His road to the U.S. Open began May 14th at the local qualifier event at the Classic Club in Palm Desert, California where he competed with 54 other golfers for 3 spots to advance to the sectional qualifier. He shot an even par 72 to be the first alternate from the local qualifier.
On May 3rd he received the call every alternate prays for, a spot opened for him as an alternate for the sectional qualifier at Springfield Country Club in Springfield, Ohio on May 4th. After making hurried travel to Ohio on the 3rd, David competed against 65 golfers for 5 spots in the U.S. Open. He went 69-69 for a two under par total of 138 and he won a three-way playoff for one of the final two sectional qualifier spots in the 118th U.S. Open.
“Riverside has a strong tradition of top-quality junior golf and David is a splendid example of that tradition. With great local golf courses and excellent youth instruction, Riverside is a great destination for junior golf competition and training. We celebrate the importance of youth sports, the values it instills in athletes and we are proud to recognize one of our own,” said Shaheen Roostai, Director of the Riverside Sports Commission.
“Riverside loves its sports and its competitors,” Riverside Mayor Rusty Bailey said. “We have a long history developing young people into great athletes who can take on any challenge. Look at David’s road to the U.S. Open -- it is a thing of beauty and a great inspiration for our athletes learning what it means to compete. I could not be more proud of David, and I want him to know his hometown is pulling for him and cheering him on at the U.S. Open.”
“I have been an advocate and supporter of junior golf my entire life. I wish I could take the determination and sense of purpose David has and give it to every junior golfer in Southern California. David is true testament that hard work and determination pays dividends.” Said Ed Holmes, Past President of the Southern California Golf Association and Victoria Club.
“I remember giving him his first lessons when he was 8 or 9 years old. I don’t know a kid who has worked harder or who has been more persistent. When I point to a person who other young golfers should emulate, its David.” Said Jeff Cross, Head Professional, Victoria Club.
Photo Credit: SCPGA Junior Tour
