Kevin Sutherland

Born: July 4, 1964

Birthplace: Sacramento, California

Height: 6 ft 1 in

College: Fresno State University

Turned Pro: 1987

Kevin Sutherland wasn’t a golf prodigy. Unlike most PGA professionals, Sutherland walked on to his college golf team (Fresno State University) where his teammates initially teased the freshman about his golf grip and swing. When his college career was over, he was the most successful golfer in Fresno State history, earning two All-American honors in the process.

It took Sutherland five years to earn his PGA Tour card after turning pro. It took Sutherland another ten years to earn his first PGA Tour win – the 2002 Match Play Championship.

While Sutherland didn’t win another PGA title during his career, he had a remarkably consistent run.

He recorded 6 top ten finishes in 2008, losing twice in playoffs. It was during this time that Sutherland cracked into the top 50 in the Official World Golf Ratings.

Sutherland’s steady play allowed him to play multiple times in the Major championships. Sutherland recorded top tens at the Open Championship in 2001 and the PGA Championship in 2007.

After turning 50 and joining the Champions Tour in 2014, Sutherland recorded the first round of 59 ever recorded on the Champions Tour. He was 13 shots under par on the par 72 course during the second round of the Dick’s Sporting Goods Open at En-Joie Golf Club in Endicott, New York. Only 6 people have ever shot 59 on the regular PGA Tour. The only blemish on Sutherland’s scorecard was a three-putt from the fringe on the 18th and final hole.