Erik van Rooyen Blitzes Qualifier Field

POWELL, Ohio — An annual pilgrimage happens the day after the Memorial Tournament, when those players who are not otherwise exempt from the U.S. Open try to qualify on Monday in what has been dubbed “Golf’s Longest Day.”

The 36-hole affair is spread out among 10 qualifying venues over the continental United States, with 47 spots available for the 125^th U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club next week outside of Pittsburgh.

This year, 66 players will compete for six spots at Kinsale Golf & Fitness Club, north of Columbus. Eight players from last week’s Memorial field will participate.

The first 18 holes at Kinsale finished with South African Erik van Rooyen leading at 8-under after shooting a 64, tying the competitive course record.

Van Rooyen kept the momentum going and easily was the medalist, finishing 13-under and six shots clear of Bud Cauley, Justin Lower and Lanto Griffin at 7-under.

“It's just a long day in the sun, and it requires just a lot of focus,” Van Rooyen said. “A lot of mental energy to stay with it for that long. I mean, I think the last time I did 36 holes was probably two years ago when I when I was here qualifying as well, or maybe three years ago. So, I don't do 36 holes too often.”

Cauley backed up his morning 3-under 69 with a 4-under 68 in the afternoon. He will make his first appearance in the U.S. Open since 2017 and his first visit to Oakmont.