Blythewood native Hart making PGA debut

Adam Hart just wanted a chance to compete in a PGA Tour event and he’s got that this week.

The Blythewood native will tee it up this week at the Barbasol Championship in Alabama starting Thursday.

“We all play this game to try and put yourself in this situation,” Hart said. “I just hope I can make the most of this chance.”

Hart had to go through a pre-qualifier last week and return to Alabama Monday for the one-day, 18-hole qualifier, where the top four made the tournament.

Hart and three other golfers shot 68, forcing a sudden-death playoff for the last two spots. On the second hole of the playoff, there was a 90-minute rain delay, but Hart and Chase Parker earned the final two spots on the fourth playoff hole.

“It definitely was nerve-wracking,” Hart said. “I texted my wife, mom, dad and brother back home. Everyone was on pins and needles. It means so much to have that support.”

Hart said his wife and family will make the trip to see his debut. On Tuesday, he played a practice round with two-time Heritage champion Boo Weekly where the two discussed their love of hunting and fishing, in addition to their golf games.

Hart has advanced to second round of PGA Tour Q-school the past four years and has bounced around various mini tours since graduating from Francis Marion, where he was part of the Patriots’ 2003 Division II national championship.

Hart has been working with swing coach Sean Cain and likes where his game is at heading into his first PGA tournament.

“I’ve started to hit the ball good. It’s just my putting was holding me back but I have working hard on my putting. Hopefully, I can carry that momentum into this week,” Hart said.

A strong showing this week could alter Hart’s plans for the rest of the rest of the summer. If he finishes in the top 10, he’s guaranteed a spot in next week’s PGA Tour event. By making the cut, Hart can earn a few more spots in Monday qualifiers without having to pre-qualify.

“Making the cut is the main goal,” Hart said. “It’s just all about believing in myself. I know so many of these guys out there from playing with them. So, I know I can be out there. I hadn’t caught break yet in Q-school but I have tried to remain positive and keep grinding out there.”

This story was originally published July 13, 2016 at 9:50 PM with the headline "Blythewood native Hart making PGA debut."