07.20.15

Paul McBeth continues to show us why he is the best in the world. The past two weeks, he proved it in Europe in a big way. Yesterday he defended his title at the European Open against a hard pressing Ricky Wysocki. The European Open is in a class of its own, with over 10,000 spectators, live wrap-up shows, and the final holes broadcast live on Finnish national TV.

Paul carved the course up on Thursday and Friday, giving him a 6-stroke lead over Karl Johan Nybo in second. During the round on Saturday, Paul slipped, injuring his back. Paul lost a bit of his lead to Ricky Wysocki, but still held on to a three stroke lead going into Sunday’s final round. The final round was another epic battle between the top two players in the sport with Ricky tying it up with just 4 holes to play. However, just two holes later, on Hole 16, Ricky was unable to land his approach shots on the island green. He finally made the island green on the fourth attempt, but it cost him three crucial strokes. With only 2 holes to go, Paul only needed to par out for his third PDGA Major win in 2015.

Also finishing strong was Karl Johan Nybo, who was on the lead card most of the tournament, finishing in 5th place. Drew Gibson had his best finish at a Major, landing in 10th. Valarie Jenkins settled into third place in the Open Womens division early and held that spot all the way to the podium.

Presidents Cup

Following last week’s win at the Scandinavian Open, Paul and the rest of the American team battled the best of Europe in the President’s Cup. Paul and the rest of the American Team won their 7th consecutive President’s Cup. With tons of spectators on the course (estimated at 2500), Paul and the American Team held onto the title with a win of 29.5 to 22.5 points (Match play). It was a great start to the week!

2015 PDGA Am and Junior World Championships

Paul McBeth and Nate Sexton will be leaving Europe and heading to the PDGA Am and Junior Worlds in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Paul will be coaching and accompanying the INNOVA Junior Team Members during their rounds at Am Worlds. INNOVA team members Jay and Des Reading are also in Kalamazoo this week running the EDGE Skillshot Event and hosting instructional clinics for the players. Kevin McCoy will also be volunteering at Am Worlds as a PDGA Marshal. After the week at Am Worlds, these team members will be traveling to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to begin practice for the 2015 PDGA Pro World Championships. Best of luck to all the players this week in Kalamazoo.

All photos provided by European Open, copyright 2015.