Sean Walsh Qualifies For Big "I" National Championship

DALLAS, Texas - Gonzaga University men's golf incoming freshman Sean Walsh earned medalist honors Wednesday at a local Texas state qualifier to advance to the Trusted Choice Big "I" National Championship. This year's Big "I" is scheduled for August 7-10 at UT Golf Club in Austin.

Walsh, who hails from Keller, Texas, was one of 61 men's players who teed off at Prestonwood CC's Hills course Tuesday looking to grab one of four available spots for the national championship. After an opening round 72, Walsh separated himself from the pack with a final round 7-under par 65. His impressive round Wednesday included five birdies and two eagles.

Walsh's two-day score of 137 allowed him to win the tournament by two-strokes. Andrew Priest, of Houston, placed second with a finish of 139 (66-73).

The Big "I" is the largest junior stroke play tournament in the nation. It is one of only 17 non-AJGA events to be included in the Polo Golf Junior Rankings. Past participants have included Phil Mickelson, Tiger Woods, David Duval, and Charles Howell III.