Bryce Howell of Blythewood tied for the top 25 in last week’s U.S. Amateur Qualifier hosted by Columbia Country Club. Ninety-four players from across the country and several foreign countries started the event, competing for four spots and two alternates in the 2013 United States Amateur Championship to be held at The Country Club in Brookline, Mass., Aug. 12-18.
A total of 37 players made the cut after the first round at 73 or better. Howell, playing on his home course, carded one of the first rounds lowest scores with a 69. He shot 78 in the second round for a 147 total, tying with five others for 25th place. Josh Lorenzetti of Blythewood, also a Columbia Country Club member, shot 75 in the first round, while Parker Allen of Blythewood posted a first-round 78.
“Columbia Country Club is an ideal location for this kind of prestigious event,” said Chris Sparrow, Columbia Country Club general manager and head golf professional. “Being chosen to host this qualifier says a lot about the quality of our course and its condition. And having several of our local players do so well says a lot about the quality of golf in this area.”
The qualifier was conducted by the S.C. Golf Association on behalf of the United States Golf Association.