Texas A&M-Corpus Christi volunteer assistant golf coach Phil
Blackmar won his first-ever PGA Champions Tour title winning the
AT&T Championship at Oak Hills Country Club in San Antonio by
one shot on Sunday.
Blackmar carded birdies on five of his first six holes on Sunday
en route to a 7-under 64 edging Jay Haas, Tom Kite and Andy Bean by
a single stroke. After opening with a 1-over 72, worked his way
back into contention with a 4-under 67 in the second round. The 6-7
Blackmar was five shots in back of co-leaders Russ Cochran and Andy
Bean entering the final 18 holes.
The Islander assistant and husband of Islander head coach Carol
Blackmar, finished at 10-under for the tournament. With win,
Blackmar jumped 27 points in the Charles Schwab Cup standings
claiming the 30th and final spot for the season-ending
Schwab Cup in Sonoma, Calif. He earned $255,000 as well with the
win and a one-year exemption on the Champions Tour.
"I'm very excited, and caught off guard with this victory," said
Blackmar. "It's been a long year but this goes to show that
perseverance pays off."
Blackmar won three titles as a member of PGA Tour and needed a
strong showing to avoid qualifying school.
"Having to finish in a certain spot in the tournament to avoid
qualifying and playing well enough to win is pretty unbelievable, I
got nervous on the back nine but kept my composure and saved par a
few times to hold on," said Blackmar.
