He’s well-known at the Pincher Creek Golf Club, now Ethan Choi is making a name for himself across Alberta.
The 14-year-old went to a place many golfers could only dream of Wednesday, firing a 59 at the Alberta Bantam and Novice Championship.
“It’s an unreal feeling,” Choi said. “To see only seven guys pull it off on the (PGA) tour. For me to pull it off, I can’t really describe it or put it into words.”
Choi was terrific at the River’s Edge Golf Club in Okotoks, scoring a 28 on the front nine.
“My playing partners were all freaking out,” said Choi with a laugh. “So, I just told them to just back off and let me deal with it by myself.”
To put the great performance in perspective, the lowest round ever in a PGA event was a 58 by Jim Furyk at the Travelers Championship on August 7th, 2016. But, according to those who know Ethan, that record might not be safe.
“It was an amazing performance by Ethan,” said Pincher Creek Golf Club Manager Gord Culham with a smile. “Look out Jim Furyk at 58!”
Ethan’s 59 isn’t an overnight sensation. He’s been golfing since he was four years old.
“Every day I come out here and hit balls and play a round with my buddies,” said Choi.
It’s a love and dedication, that people at the Pincher Creek Golf Club have seen firsthand.
“He’s out here hitting balls all the time,” said Culham. “His dad helps him out, too. (He) spends a lot of time on the range. Rain or shine doesn’t matter, they’re out here.”
At 14, Choi is the youngest of nine golfers on team Alberta. He travels to tournaments all over North America, but some of his favorite moments come against his buddies at home.
“Growing up since we were little, just playing really big putting matches and that just gets like into a intense competitive mode.”
Ethan hopes to someday bring that competitive spirit to the highest level of the sport.
“My goal for golf is probably to go to a solid division one school in the states,” said Choi. “(I) want to finish up there strong, and hopefully make it to the PGA Tour.”
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