Corey Connors claimed a two-shot victory at the Valero Texas Open on Sunday with the win also sealing his place at this week’s Masters.
The Canadian had never previously won on the PGA Tour and had to come through pre-tournament qualifying just to take his place at TPC San Antonio.
However, back-to-back rounds of 66 over the weekend was enough to seal the victory for the 27-year-old, as he finished on 20-under-par for the tournament.
The world number 84 had started his final round one-shot behind overnight leader Si Woo Kim, but as the South Korean faltered, Connors was able to seize the initiative by recording four birdies at his opening five holes.
The wheels then threatened to come off for Connors, as he bogeyed each of his next four holes, but he showed great character to battle back and secure the victory with six birdies and no dropped shots on the back nine.
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Speaking after the win, Connors admitted his success was still to sink in, as was the fact he will be teeing up at Augusta for the first major of the year later this week. “It was crazy,” Connors told reporters. “I couldn’t even tell you what I shot on the back nine.” When asked about the Masters he added: “I don’t think it’s sunk in. Really exciting – it just doesn’t seem real. It’s pretty amazing… Big change of plans.”
American Charley Hoffman finished as Connors nearest rival on 18-under following an unblemished final round of 67, while his compatriot Ryan Moore was a shot further back in third. Overnight leader Kim had to be content with a tie for fourth on 15-under alongside another American in Brian Stuard.
