Amateur Jackson Koivun becomes a factor in the Procore Championship

All these guys are playing in the Procore to get ready for the Ryder Cup. And along came a young man who figured in another international match, the Walker Cup.    

That’s for amateurs, between the United States and Great Britain. As opposed to the Ryder Cup, which is for pros between the United States and Europe.

This bit of information is presented because of Jackson Koivun, who on Friday became a notable presence in the Procore Championship at Silverado after his 6-under par 66.

That lifted him into a tie for second after 36 holes with Russell Henley, one of the PGA Tour's best, who shot 68 Friday.

Yes, the leader of the Procore after the second round was Ben Griffin, a captain’s pick for the Ryder Cup, who Friday was at 64-66–130.

Mackenzie Hughes, who had a stunning 9-under 63 Thursday for the opening day lead, was eleven shots worse Friday with a 74. Indeed, golf can be frustrating.

Enter, Ryder Cuppers.

Scottie Scheffler, No. 1 in the world rankings, was tied for 13th at 138. After a 70 on Thursday, which ended his streak of consecutive rounds in the 60’s at 21, Scheffler came in Friday with a 68.

In golf, unlike some sports, sometimes there is not a great deal of difference between some amateurs and the pros.

Koivun proved as much at the Procore. He’s in front of such solid players as Matt Kuchar, Cameron Young; a Ryder Cupper, and Maverick McNealy.

Koivun goes to Auburn University, but he has a very slight West Coast connection. He was born in San Jose.

“There is a lot to learn out here,” said Koivun, the 1st-ranked amateur in the country. “I’m trying to do it as quickly as I can before I turn pro, whether that’s the end of this year, or the end of next year.”

This Procore, because of the timing, has been described as a tournament within a tournament.  Ryder Cup contestants are trying to win as much as they are trying to improve their game.  

“I wouldn’t even say my mindset’s been Ryder Cup,” said Griffin. “I’ve been pretty focused on this golf tournament. Without a doubt, off the golf course hanging out with the guys and stuff there’s been some Ryder Cup presence, but once I get on the first tee, I’m thinking I’m trying to play well here.”

Which he has done. Scheffler echoed Griffin’s thoughts about this tournament and the thought that it’s only a warm-up for the Ryder Cup. 

“I’m thinking of trying to win this tournament,” insisted Scheffler. “We can talk about the Ryder Cup later.” 

In a few days, that’s all we will be talking about in golf, especially if the U.S. is unable to win.