As “The Greatest Spectacle in Golfing” flashed across a
big-screen at Brickyard Crossing, 156 of Indiana’s best golfers took to the
course to compete for the 94th PGA Indiana Open. With new
professional status, Andy Winings of Brownsburg fired a six-under 66 for the
lone spot atop the leaderboard. “It could have been a 65, but I missed a two
foot putt on 18,” said Winings. “But I played solid golf and I’m really happy.”
Hitting 17 greens is pretty solid playing. “I took advantage of the par 5’s. I
got home in two on all but the second hole,” he explained. Fellow-competitor
Mike Liming simply said, “He made it look easy.”
Winings just finished up his NCAA eligibility with Kentucky
in the spring, and plans to attend Q-School in the fall if his studies allow.
He’ll finish his degree next semester, but plans on playing golf
professionally. “That wasn’t too bad for my first professional round,” said
Winings with a smile.
Chris Baker of Brownstown also turned professional in the past
year, and debuted at the Indiana Open in 2008. He opened this year’s
competition with a 34-33=67 to sit tied in second with Aaron Harrell of Bedford
and Ben Mattingly (a) of Fishers. Baker got his first tour win at the NGA
Hooters Classic at Quail Crossing in May. “Playing professionally is a lot of
fun, but a lot of driving,” said Baker, 2008 Indiana Amateur and Public Links
champion. “An eight hour drive no longer seems long.”
Harrell has also tried his game on the Hooters Tour, and has
made the cut in the last four events. His top finish is 24th, with
65 being his lowest competitive round to date. In response to whether he could
match or break that this week, he calmly replied, “It’s out there.”
The 72-hole stroke play competition continues Wednesday,
when the field will be cut to low 70 scores and ties after 36 holes.