A.J. Ewart’s achievement of shooting a remarkable 59 during the PGA Tour Americas tournament in Victoria, British Columbia, stands as a testament to both his talent and the significance of mental mastery in golf. As a father and coach, witnessing this feat adds a profound layer of emotional resonance.
Ewart’s journey as a golfer is not merely about numbers; it’s a narrative of resilience, evolution, and dedication. Having been a competitive player from an early age, A.J.’s continuous ascent in golf illustrates a larger narrative in the sport, where fluctuating fortunes and the demand for consistency often define a player’s career path.
Many aspiring professional golfers understand that the transition from amateur to professional is fraught with challenges. From the costly logistics of travel to the pressure of performance, every tournament demands as much mental fortitude as physical ability. For A.J., the stakes were particularly high at the Times Colonist Victoria Open, where a top finish was essential for his bid to earn Korn Ferry Tour status for 2026.
The 15th tournament on the season’s schedule, A.J.’s performance was critical in not only securing financial backing but also in cementing his place as one of the promising young talents in golf. Ewart was competing against rigorous benchmarks — he needed not just to play well, but to outperform, capitalizing on opportunities to ensure his future in professional golf.
Highlighting the importance of putting, A.J. struggled for a brief period before experiencing a pivotal turning point. Initially adopting a left-hand low grip, his transition back to a conventional grip symbolized a broader theme of adaptability inherent in golf. The psyche of a golfer is delicate; one moment of doubt can lead to a downward spiral. Fortunately, A.J. recognized the need for change, and this decision proved vital.
On the first round of the tournament, A.J. posted a solid three-under par 67, setting up a promising foundation. But it was the second round that etched his name in history. Starting on hole No. 10, A.J. made quick work of the course with a capacity to sink putts that seemed almost mundane to him, reflecting the hard work and focus he has displayed throughout his career. An opening nine of 29 showcased not just skill but an exceptional flow — a “zone” many athletes aspire to reach.
The true character of a golfer often reveals itself in moments of adversity. A.J.’s recovery from a bogey due to a three-putt on his first hole indicates resilience; he turned the setback into an opportunity for momentum. The highlight of the round was undoubtedly the creative and skillful recovery from a difficult position on hole No. 5, wherein he executed a challenging shot to secure yet another birdie.
With 12 birdies, only one bogey, and a total of 22 putts, A.J.’s 59 marked him as the first Canadian golfer in history to card such a score during a PGA tournament in Canada, aligning him with an elite group of players who have achieved this milestone. The psychological boost from this score is invaluable as he seeks to solidify his position on the Korn Ferry Tour.
Despite the euphoric high of the 59, golf is a game of nuance and patience. Coming back with a 65 in the next round and a final score of 69 in the tournament reflects a consistent performance structure. Ewart ultimately lost to Drew Nesbitt in a playoff, but that defeat cannot overshadow the brilliance of his earlier rounds.
For A.J. Ewart, this tournament was more than just a number; it symbolized the journey’s hardships, adaptability, resilience, and the importance of believing in oneself. His father shares a deeper understanding of this abnormality of achieving a round of 59 — it becomes a generational experience, deeply woven into the fabric of parenthood and athletic ambition.
The focus must now shift to what lies ahead in A.J.’s career. With the Korn Ferry Tour as the next major milestone, he will undoubtedly continue to hone his skills and mental game, leveraging this historic performance as a catalyst for future success. Step by step, the journey continues, with aspirations of solidifying a spot in the PGA Tour awaiting in the wings.
As fans, players, and aspiring golfers bear witness to A.J. Ewart’s journey, this moment serves not only as an achievement for him but an inspiration for all. The world of golf is filled with stories of perseverance, and A.J.’s record-setting day at Victoria will echo through the ages as proof that hard work, family support, and belief can yield remarkable results. The narrative continues, filled with promise and potential—a classic round indeed.
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