Bullard, a former pro footballer and now an engaged scratch golfer, had a tough day between the ropes. Yet he was intent on making it to The Open. Bullard got through a difficult round playing at Rochester & Cobham Park. Sadly, his campaign wasn’t enough, and he lost out on a prized place in the Final Stage of qualification for the grand tournament.
It was a rocky start to the day for Bullard, who double bogeyed his first hole. This ominous early setback foreshadowed a round where he could never really get his feet under him. He recovered quickly, erasing the bogey with a birdie on the third hole, a par-five. He would miss another eagle opportunity on the par-four sixth, leaving his odds nearly impossible. When Bullard got to the tee on the eighth hole, he was about to make another double bogey. This mistake compounded what would become an abysmal front nine score of 40.
A Glimpse of Promise
Even after the battle lost on the front nine, Bullard made his move on the back nine. He interspersed three birdies with two bogeys, showing the ability to rally and fight back from a double or triple down the stretch. His hard work wasn’t enough, as he shot three-over-par 74. This made his total score four strokes below what was needed. Unfortunately for him, that meant he was unable to progress to next week’s Final Qualifying for The Open.
Bullard was met with a stout challenge. He would have to place within the top nine of his qualifying event just to earn a berth to the Final Stage. With nearly 2000 players fighting at 15 venues around the UK and Ireland on Monday, the competition was intense. With 18-hole events providing seven to ten qualification spots apiece. Try as he might, though, Bullard just couldn’t get high enough score.
Experience on the Course
Earlier this month, Bullard showed us what a magician he is. He recently competed against Legend Tour players at the Costa Navarino Legends Tour Trophy, Greece. This has to have given them great experience and exposure to high-level competition. When it came time to qualify, the pressure of the event got to him. He was unable to do so this time.
The Open—running July 17 through 20—continues to be a big focus for Bullard. In order to be considered, he must compete in qualifying competitions. This is key for him to realize his dream of playing in one of golf’s most hallowed tournaments. The failed chance at Rochester & Cobham Park would be a notable blow for Bullard. What’s instantly apparent is Edwards’ dedication to honing his craft.
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