I apologize that this is on Day 10; however, I think I just slept for the past 24 hours which I needed most definitely. As many of you already know, it was an action packed Day 8.
Well, where do I start? The day started off with the commentary for the lead group: Josh Anthon, Avery Jenkins, Matt Orum and Cale Leiviska. It was a battle from the first few holes. They knew the title was up for grabs, but had no clue what was in store for them. Water Works Park is the most picturesque course with elevation on almost every hole. It is a course that tests all skill levels. The questions of “playing it safe” or “going for it” are repetitive thoughts. With a cushion to play with, it might be easy to answer; however, with everyone within a few throws, there was an incredible amount of mental game needed. One gut instinct ignored and you lose your spot in the finals. No pressure there, right? I was merely writing down the plays and MY hands were clammy. I can only imagine what these guys were going through.
Matt’s dad drove up to surprise him. Cale’s mom did the same. I get goose bumps when I see family together like this. The support of family is such an important part of life. I hope you all have this. On completion of that round, all four realized they had played their best to all end up in the finals at Blue Valley.
We head to Blue Valley.
The race was intense for the title, to say the least. Avery leading by two over Josh; Matt just one back from Josh and Cale four back from Matt. That could be the difference of one hole out at Blue Valley if you aren’t playing at the top of your game. All four were contenders and the crowd knew it, too. Which path will the outcome take?
With an estimate of 1,500 people following (or trying to follow) it made it that much more exciting. I, personally, had never seen a gallery this large. The action at Blue Valley resembled the action at Water Works. Josh’s play showed Avery he was there to win. Going into the final hole, they were tied. They both played for safe pars leading them into a sudden death playoff. Back to hole one we went. After hole one, tied. After hole two, tied. After holes three and four, tied. The crowd was going nuts! Hole five both Josh and Avery’s drives were within putting range. Josh had been putting lights out so it was a shock that his putt missed its path. It was now up to Avery to seal the deal on what he came to Kansas City to do. I have never heard that many people able to be that silent other than at the Masters. This playoff had that feel to it, which you heard in the gallery video "shout-out". With both contenders having large fan followers, we witnessed the determination behind the talent of these two men. Avery approaches his disc knowing he could win with this putt. Everyone’s camera was on him. He steps into his routine a few feet behind his disc. We know he is ready when he approaches his disc. He does a few practice attempts and then releases. He nailed it! Avery Jenkins is the 2009 Pro Open World Champion. Josh played fantastic. He made it tough for Avery both mentally and physically but Avery proved he had what it took to take home the prize. The look on the fans' faces tell it all.
With both Avery and Valarie Jenkins World Champions now, their family is on cloud nine! Mom and Dad, Sharon and Leroy, naturally are their biggest fans. The Jenkins family, aka "Team Jenkins", is an amazing and supportive family and loved by everyone who meets them.
My Worlds experience is always wonderful, but the more I get to know you all, the more I see you as family. I got to spend an entire day with the Juniors and mingle with others at the evening festivities. Getting out and meeting the members is what I just love. If you ever need anything or have suggestions/feedback please don’t hesitate to contact us at the office. We are here for you all!
2009 PDGA World Championships in Kansas City, MO – what a week, what memories, what a Worlds!
Until we meet again...
