Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, June 29, 1995 TAG: 9506290061
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: B-1 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: RANDY KING STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
This time, the Roanoker won't be shaking like a leaf.
``Unlike last year at Pinehurst [N.C.], I feel like I belong this time,'' the longtime Blue Hills head professional said Wednesday.
``I feel much better about it this time. I'm more prepared. Last year, I think I was still in shock from getting in when I got down to Pinehurst and I never did get geared to play. This year I'm ready to play. I think I can play with anybody right now.''
For good reason. King, 52, hit 17 of 18 greens in regulation and shot under par in a Tuesday practice round on the 6,945-yard, par-72 Congressional Country Club course.
``I feel like I can play some now, especially as good as I hit it Tuesday,'' King said. ``I'm playing as well as I've played in a while. I'm hitting it farther, hitting it more consistent, hitting a lot more greens. If I can get the putter going I'll be in good shape.''
King will be making his third Senior Tour start in a year. In addition to last year's Senior Open, in which he shot 82-78 and missed the cut, King qualified for this past April's PGA Senior Championship. He made the cut and finished 55th.
He made the field at Congressional by shooting 69 in a June 19 qualifier in Richmond.
``It was a lot of heat just getting in this thing,'' he said. ``There was only one spot available. You can't make any mistakes then.''
King maintained his goal this week is simply to make the 36-hole cut. The low 60 players and ties or anyone within 10 strokes of the lead will play on the weekend.
``I'm not setting goals too lofty so I don't have to hit bottom if I don't make 'em,'' King said. ``I'm hitting it good. Now I just have to see what happens.''
King's bag will be carried by his younger brother, Johnny. With many of the Blue Hills regulars expected to make the trip north, King is guaranteed to have a rooting gallery.
``All the people back at the club have been supportive,'' King said. ``There's a bunch who said they're coming down to watch me play. I just hope I can show 'em something good.''
by CNB